How to Restore Old Furniture DIY Projects Craft Ideas & How To’s for Home Decor with Videos

Want to know how do a furniture makeover? Here are some tips you can use to make furniture look brand new and last longer! You'll just need a few supplies, follow a couple of steps and the time and patience to get the job done. Save money from buying new furniture and give your old ones a makeover this weekend!

Furniture Makeover To Spruce Up Your Home | [Infographic]

Furniture pieces are some of the most expensive aspects when decorating your home. Perhaps the most important qualities when selecting furniture are sustainability and adaptability of the pieces. We just want quality furniture that lasts and will look good for a variety of occasions year round. All too often, when redecorating, old furniture is cast aside in the pursuit of a new look. But what a waste of money! Luckily there are many ways to repurpose your old furniture and create a look that is fresh and new again. Check out our furniture makeover tips below!

A special shout out to fix.com for this amazing furniture makeover infographic!

Furniture Facelift

How To Prep, Paint, And Protect Wood Furniture

What you need:

1. Drop Cloth

2. Stripper

There are a variety of options; those that claim to have fewer chemicals also take longer to work.

3. Power Sander

Sanding by hand: 100-200 strokes per minute

Power sander: 6000-8000 strokes per minute

4. Putty Knife

5. Sandpaper

Fine-grit, medium-grit, and sanding blocks.

6. Cloths

7. Painter’s Tape

8. Primer

9. Paint

Oil-based paints are long-lasting and can be used in cooler temperatures, but have a strong odor that may last for weeks.

Latex-paints dry quickly and don’t have a lingering odor. They work best in warm, dry temperatures. Latex paint can swell the grain of wood, so it’s best to sand between coats.

10. Brushes

11. Rollers

12. Paste Wax

13. Fine Steel Wool

Prep

Protect

Lay down a drop cloth to protect floors from spills and splatters.

Clean

Use a damp cloth and/or a wood-safe cleaner on the entire piece of furniture including drawers.

Remove Hardware

Unscrew handles, knobs, pulls, and hinges. Seal them in a jar or bag so no parts go missing.

Break It Down

Take a “before” photo to help you remember where everything goes or mark each piece with a number when you remove the drawers and doors.

Strip

Use paint stripper if the current finish is bubbling or chipping, has many visible layers of paint, or if you plan on staining. Apply the stripper and let it sit for 24 hours (some varieties can be removed after 30 minutes). Use a putty knife of a plastic scraper to remove chunks of paint.

Rough Sand

Use a medium-grit sandpaper to remove dirt, residue, and any current finish (if no stripping is necessary).

Repair

Fill any holes or cracks with wood filler and a putty knife. Once dry, sand over repair spots with a medium-grit sandpaper.

Fine Sand

Use a fine-grit sandpaper or sanding block to lightly smooth.

Clean

Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away dust and particles.

Tape

Mask off areas you don’t want to paint including drawer boxes, cabinet interiors, or hardware that’s difficult to remove.

Prime

Not all pieces need priming, but it’s a good idea to prime bare wood to help paint or stain adhere.

Paint

1. Paint large. Flat surfaces first (use a roller for a smoother finish).

2. Work from the top of the piece down to catch any paint drips as you go.

3. Brush or roll with the grain.

4. Avoid overloading the brush with too much paint.

5. Continue onto the edges and trim with a brush.

6. Wait recommended time per paint instructions, then wipe away any drips with a clean, damp cloth.

7. For an even, professional finish, use a fine-grain sandpaper between coats. Make sure to wipe away dust afterward.

Finish

Protect

After the final coat of paint has dried for at least 24 hours, protect it with wax or furniture seal. Dry for at least 10-15 minutes. Buff with a clean cloth or fine steel wool.

Hands Off

Do not touch or move the furniture for at least two days to avoid smudges or nicks. If you are not waxing the furniture, let the finish set for a couple of weeks.

Replace Hardware

Use old or new hardware.

Furniture Rehab Safety

Wear chemical-resistant gloves, a protective apron, goggles, and a dust mask or ventilator to protect skin and avoid inhaling fumes and loose particles.
Work in a well-ventilated area
Put stained cloths outside to dry since oily rags can combust while wet.
Check your state’s regulations for proper disposal of hazardous materials including stripper.

Refinishing An Old Piece Of Furniture Can Be Both Cost Effective And Rewarding.

While the entire process – from prep to finish – requires some time and patience, your new beauty will be well worth it.

Did you find these furniture makeover tips helpful and interesting? Let us know below in the comments.

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