One of the least expensive and creative ways to help furnish a room is by upcycling pieces. You can use what you have or by searching thrift stores, garage sales, consignment shops and Craigslist for tables, chairs, dressers and bed frames. There are several paints on the market designed just for this purpose, and paint specifically formulated to make the job as simple as possible.
If you’re not ready to tackle an entire piece of furniture, start with something small like a picture frame, end table or even a mirror.
A quick rundown of the various paints available.
Sarah Greenman
Latex paint: If you’re looking for a smooth, modern and durable finish similar to what might be found on a factory-finished piece, latex paint is a good option. Consider Sherwin-Williams Pro Classic, a paint for furniture and cabinets with characteristics similar to oil paint but without the mess and difficult application. A coat of primer is suggested prior to painting for maximum adhesion. Latex paint comes in a variety of sheens, each providing a distinct look — flat (no shine), eggshell, satin, semigloss or high-gloss (very shiny) — so choose accordingly.
Chalk paint: Annie Sloan chalk paint is a popular line that requires no primer and little to no sanding before painting, depending on the condition of the surface. The finish you’ll achieve with this paint is consistent, with less flaking and chipping than milk paint. Wax can be applied as an alternative to sealer, in clear or antique, depending on the look you want to achieve.
Milk paint: This paint comes as a powder to be mixed with water, providing a whitewashed or distressed look. Milk paint has been described as stain-like in consistency, though it can be thicker depending on how much water is added. It leaves a chippy or flaking surface, particularly when applied on previously finished pieces. Waxes and water-based sealers can be applied after painting. You can mix your own with ingredients found at the hardware store, search for the recipe on line. Alaskan Dames sells a milk paint; Fusion Mineral Paint. They have examples of upcycled furniture in their stores and you can even take a class at one of their shops.
Mud paint: This option is relatively new among furniture paints and is best for antiquing and distressing, offering a flat, smooth finish with great coverage and adhesion that typically doesn’t require a primer. Premixed, it tends to be creamier than milk paint, providing opaque coverage. To enhance the final look, use a furniture wax. A final clear-coat sealer isn’t necessary, but if additional protection is desired, choose a water-based polycrylic one.
Lacquer or oil-based paint: This is not a DIY-friendly job as it involves long drying times and a strong odor that lingers for days. This option is best when painting expensive kitchen cabinetry or built-ins where a high-end look is desired.
Extra Tips to consider before you begin your project.
Tip: Be careful of older furniture that has previously been painted, since the paint may contain lead. To determine if lead is present, rub a swab from a 3M LeadCheck Instant Lead Test over the surface. The swabs are available at home improvement stores.
Tip: Make sure the piece of furniture is worth your effort. Look for a solidly built piece that doesn’t sway when pressure is applied to the top surface. Ideally it should be constructed of solid wood, but if veneers are present, make sure they’re in excellent condition with no splits or warping.
Mary Best Designs
Have fun transforming an old piece or two with paint in a color you love.
Regina DiLauro-Fay has over 15 years of design experience. Her company, DF Designs, specializes in Interior Design, Home Staging & Color Consultanting. She can be reached at (843)906-9663 or reginadfdesigns@gmail.com.