Updating an old table with a painting is a great way to make it look better.The process is fairly straightforward, even though it may seem daunting.Sand and apply a primer to prepare the table.After the primer has dried, paint the table in aventilated area and let it dry between coats.After the paint has dried, use a protectant formula to seal the job.The table is ready to be used.
Step 1: If you don't want them stuck together, separate them.
Pull the leaf open so it doesn't touch the edges of the main table.When the paint dries, it won't seal the pieces together.There is no need to take pieces apart if the table has no leaf.
Step 2: Sand down the table top to remove any varnish.
To sand the top of the table, use an orbital sander.Don't go too fast and be careful not to damage the surface.Don't worry about removing all of the varnish, just sand down the table and the primer will stick.If your table is notvarnished, use 150-grit sandpaper to smooth it out.Don't forget to wear protective gear when sanding.Gloves, eye protection, and a mask are needed before you start.
Step 3: The surface should be wiped down.
The top and legs of the table should be cleaned with a tack cloth.To get the primer to adhere, the surfaces must be clean and dry.
Step 4: The table should beprimed with a brush-on primer.
Since they are thicker and more durable than spray-on formulas, roll on/brush on formulas are the best for tables.The primer should be applied with a mini foam roller or brush.Allow that layer to dry before applying a second coat.The primer helps the paint stick to the wood.Roll or brush the primer in the direction of the wood grain.Wrap your brush in a plastic bag and put it in the fridge.It will keep the paint moist and you won't have to clean between layers.
Step 5: To fill in hard-to-reach crevices, use spray-on primer.
If your table has a lot of crevices that are hard to paint over, use a spray-on formula.You will get an even base for the paint.
Step 6: Sand the surface with your hands.
Sand the primed surface smooth with fine-grit sandpaper to finish painting the table.Sand gently because the orbital is too strong for primer.
Step 7: Put a tack cloth on the table.
Dust and debris can be cleaned away from sanding.Before you start painting, make sure the table is completely clean and dry.
Step 8: You can find an open, well-ventilated area to paint.
If you want paint fumes to not be in direct sunlight or affected by strong breezes, choose an area with ventilation.Make sure you have enough room to walk around the table.It's best to paint at temperatures from 55 to 70 F.
Step 9: Choose between an oil-based or latex paint.
All 3 are easy to clean.They vary when it comes to user-friendliness.The paints are easy to clean and hard to rust.It is easy to clean and look beautiful, but latex-based paints are not as durable or cure as well.Oil-based paints have a strong, unpleasant smell, but they sink into the wood as they cure, making them extremely durable and easy to wash.
Step 10: There is a semi-gloss finish for high-traffic tables.
It is best for kitchen tables because it is tough, easy to clean, and hides fingerprints and smudges better than a flat-finish paint.If you want a glossy finish, go for a semi-gloss indoor latex paint.
Step 11: Flat finish paint can be used to cover up flaws.
A smooth finish hides any flaws in the table's texture.It is difficult to clean without damaging the paint job, so make sure not to use it on high-traffic surfaces.If you don't know if you want flat or semi-gloss finish, start with a flat-finish paint.You can cover the flat paint with a semi-gloss finish if you prefer it.
Step 12: A thin layer of paint is applied to the table.
If you want to paint any crevices, use a brush.Next, use a foam roller to apply a thin layer of paint to the table's flat surfaces.The foam roller can create a smooth finish.To make the transition between roller and brush as smooth as possible, be careful to avoid drips around the table's edges.There are two types of bristle brush for oil and latex paint.Paint in the direction of the wood grain.
Step 13: The paint should be dry for 24 hours.
Waiting 24 hours will give the paint time to settle.Direct sunlight won't affect the quality of the paint if the table dries in a shaded area.
Step 14: Sand each coat by hand after applying 3-4 more thin coats of paint.
Sand and wipe the surface before applying the next layer of paint.If you want to even out the paint's level, gently sand down any drips and flaws.Sand by hand because the orbital can be too strong for primer and paint.3 layers is enough for lighter paints.Darker colors may need more coats.There are areas where you switched between brush and roller.
Step 15: Use a tack cloth to wipe down the surface.
Dust and debris should be wiped away with a tack cloth after sanding.This will help you get a professional finish.
Step 16: Allow the paint cure for 3-7 days.
It will feel dry to the touch in a day or two, but it will need 3-7 days to cure or fully harden.It's important with oil- and enamel-based paints.The table will be more prone to chipping and peeling if you don't let it cure long enough.Don't touch the surface and keep it in a shaded area while it cures.
Step 17: Do you want to apply protectant?
You can apply a finishing protectant to the tabletop if you want a final exterior layer of protection.It makes the surface of the kitchen tables easier to clean.
Step 18: For lighter paint colors, use finishing wax.
It works great over light colors because finishing wax won't alter your paint's color.To apply it, dip a clean cotton cloth into some clear paste wax and apply evenly over the table's surface.Let it dry for at least an hour, then buff away the excess with a clean cloth or electric polisher.You have to repeat the process 3-4 times.
Step 19: There are two ways to pair a finish with paint colors.
The protectants work well on darker colors that have a slight color change.To apply either finish, lightly sand the table and wipe it clean.To apply a thin layer of protectant, use a foam roller.It should be dry for 2 hours.This process is repeated 3-4 times.Avoid using these finishes over white or light colors because they tend to yellow over time.To prevent bubbles from forming, apply the protectant slowly with a foam roller.
Step 20: For at least 48 hours, let the finish cure.
Wait at least 2 full days before placing anything on the table.The strength of the top coat is important on kitchen tables.You should not use any cleaning products or chemicals on the table for a week.