Painting Tips

  I recently just picked up a dresser/vanity that someone had re painted themselves (bad idea!).  The paint was all chipping PEALING off!  Paint should not do this....It was pealing like a bad sunburn in big chunks and what was underneath???  Beautiful cherry wood.  Now, I cannot save all the cherry wood, but do plan on salvaging what I can.  It pealed off perfectly (in some areas) add left the original finish fully entact....Now you might ask why did this happen.  Well, this is the outcome when you skip steps and just jump to the end.

  DO YOUR PREP WORK!! To paint over any glossy surface you have to sand it. All paint needs something to adhere to...Yes, even primer. You want to sand all areas with a sander or by hand sanding to slightly rough up the surface (nothing crazy) so the paint has something to stick too. If you have a piece with a high gloss finish or laminate, I like to use Zissner's Primer. It adheres (even without sanding!) to anything! You have to hand paint this and make sure to get even coverage!

  Using the right brush makes a huge difference!  I can't tell you have many pieces I have redone because the owner "tried" to repaint it and had NO idea what they were doing.  If you are going to paint furniture it is best to use a professional sprayer (I just got a Milwaukee Airless Paint Sprayer and LOVE it!) but most peps don't have one so it's important to use the right brush.  Use a foam roller or foam brushes so it leaves a smooth, nice finish.  Using brisle brushes will leave streaks and a rough finish.

 

  Selecting the right kind of paint is also very important.  I typically use the satin finish because it has some sheen (not a lot though) and leaves a nice finish.  I stay away from gloss (personally I just don't like the look) and usually semi-gloss as well.  Satin finish will hide any brush marks while gloss will let is shine through!  Insiders tip: Always use a protectant too!  This allows for easy clean up on the piece and will protect it from minor scratches.  I use polyurathane on my wood peices and polycrylic on my painted pieces....both in the satin finish as well! 

  I hope this tips have given you a better idea of how to get going on supplies and the prep work on your project.  If you have any questions please ask and remember to check us out on FACEBOOK!!!

Happy Painting!