Easy Way to Change Colour of Wood Furniture: Tips and Tricks
If you’re looking to give your home a quick update, changing the colour of your wooden furniture is a great DIY project to take on. Not only is it cost-effective, but it’s also an easy way to transform the aesthetic of your living space. Whether you want to darken the tone or try out a completely new colour, there are different methods to achieve your desired results.
Before you begin, it’s important to properly prepare your furniture for colour change. This includes cleaning and sanding the surface to ensure the new colour adheres properly. Once your furniture is ready, it’s time to choose and apply the new colour. This can be done through painting, staining, or using a wash. With a little patience and attention to detail, you can easily transform your wooden furniture into a piece that perfectly complements your home’s décor.
Key Takeaways
- Changing the colour of your furniture is an easy way to transform the aesthetic of your living space.
- Proper preparation is key to successfully changing the colour of your furniture.
- Whether you choose to paint, stain, or use a wash, changing the colour of your furniture requires patience and attention to detail.
Preparing Your Furniture for Colour Change
Before you start changing the colour of your wooden furniture, you need to prepare the surface. This means cleaning and stripping the old finish, sanding for a smooth base, and applying primer and sealer. Here are the steps you need to follow to prepare your furniture for a colour change.
Cleaning and Stripping the Old Finish
The first step is to clean your furniture. Use a TSP (trisodium phosphate) solution to remove any dirt or grime. You can also use a furniture cleaner and prep solution to wipe down the surface and remove any wax, oils, or other build-up. If your furniture has an old finish, you need to strip it off. Use a paint stripper and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Sanding for a Smooth Base
After cleaning and stripping, you need to sand the surface. Use 220 grit sandpaper to sand the entire surface of your furniture. This will create a smooth base for your new finish. Make sure to sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid scratches. Once you have sanded the surface, wipe it down with a tack cloth to remove any dust.
Applying Primer and Sealer
The final step is to apply primer and sealer. This will help the new finish adhere to the surface and protect the wood. Use a high-quality wood primer and apply it evenly with a brush or roller. Once the primer has dried, sand the surface lightly with 220 grit sandpaper and wipe it down with a tack cloth. Then apply a sealer to protect the wood and give it a smooth finish.
By following these steps, you can prepare your wooden furniture for a colour change. Remember to take your time and follow the instructions carefully. With a little patience and effort, you can transform your old furniture into something new and beautiful.
Choosing and Applying the New Colour
Selecting the Right Stain or Paint
Before you start staining or painting your wood furniture, you need to choose the right product. If you want to change the colour of your furniture while still showing off the natural wood grain, a wood stain is a great option. Wood stains come in a variety of hues, so you can find the perfect shade to match your decor. If you prefer a more opaque finish, you can use chalk paint or regular paint. Keep in mind that if you use paint, you will lose some of the natural wood texture.
When selecting a stain or paint, consider the wood species of your furniture, as well as the current colour and the colour you want to achieve. You can test the stain or paint on a small, inconspicuous area of the furniture to see how it will look before applying it to the entire piece.
Techniques for Staining and Painting
Once you have chosen the right product, it’s time to start staining or painting. Make sure you have all the necessary tools, including a brush or foam brush, depending on the product you are using. When applying stain or paint, work in the direction of the wood grain for the best results. Apply the product in thin, even coats, and allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next one.
If you are using a wood stain, you can use gel stains for more control and less mess. Gel stains are thicker and easier to apply than oil-based stains. If you are using paint, you can use oil-based paint for a durable finish. However, oil-based paint takes longer to dry than water-based paint.
Finishing Touches for Lasting Beauty
After you have applied the new colour to your furniture, you need to apply a protective finish to keep it looking beautiful for years to come. You can use varnish or polyurethane to protect the wood and give it a glossy finish. Apply the finish in thin, even coats and let it dry completely between coats.
Remember to take safety measures when working with stains and paints, such as wearing gloves and a mask, and working in a well-ventilated area. Regular maintenance, such as dusting and polishing, can help keep your refurbished furniture looking its best. And if you need to do touch-ups, you can use the same techniques to apply a new coat of stain or paint.