How to Repaint an Antique Dresser

Painted furniture adds color and interest to any room. If you have an antique dresser with worn paint or outdated color, repainting it is a way to brighten and personalize your decor. Learning to repaint a dresser will serve the do-it-yourself decorator in beautifying any piece of furniture.

All-purpose cleaner
150- and 220-grit sandpaper
Small paint tray or bucket
3-inch synthetic-bristle paintbrush
Interior latex paint, semi- or high-gloss

Instructions

- 1
  Remove the drawers from the case and remove knobs and pulls so surfaces can be painted without interference.
- 2
  Prepare surfaces by cleaning with mild detergent. Sand surfaces with 120-grit sandpaper to scratch the surface. This provides a suitable surface for new paint to stick to. Wipe clean with a damp cloth.
- 3
  Pour a small amount of paint into a small paint tray or bucket. Using a separate container prevents contamination of the paint can by debris and dried paint as you dip the brush into it.
- 4
  Apply the first top coat using a synthetic brush. Brush each surface with the grain of the wood. Allow to dry overnight.
- 5
  Sand the first coat with 220-grit sandpaper to remove dust specks and bubbles. Use a soft touch and stroke with the grain of the wood. Clean with a damp cloth.
- 6
  Apply the second top coat thinly and evenly. As always, brush with the grain and maintain a wet edge as you move from one section to another to ensure a smooth finish, free of excessive brush marks. Allow to dry overnight.
- 7
  Reinstall the hardware and insert the drawers to finish the project.

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