Side Table Painting Tips and Tricks
Tired of those old, battered side tables collecting dust in the corner? Give them new life with a fresh coat of paint! Painting side tables is an easy, affordable way to transform boring tables into beautiful focal points. With some simple prep work, creativity, and the right supplies, you can create stunning painted side tables to style your space.
From prepping properly to picking paint colors, techniques for beginners to advanced painters, and style ideas for showcasing your finished pieces. Let's dive in!
Benefits of Painting Your Side Tables
Before picking up a paintbrush, let's look at why painting side tables is such a great furniture makeover. Here are some of the top benefits:
- Cost-Effective Update: Buying new furniture can be expensive. Painting what you already have is budget-friendly.
- Customize the Look: Paint allows you to choose any color combo to match your style.
- Quick Project: Side tables are small enough to paint in an afternoon or weekend.
- Easy for Beginners: Almost anyone can paint a simple side table.
- DIY Self Expression: Paint your personality with fun colors and designs.
- Sustainable: Breathe new life into old side tables instead of sending to landfill.
Painting beat-up old side tables you picked up from the thrift store or were hiding in the garage lets you affordably customize them to match your home. Let's look at proper prep work first.
Prepping and Sanding Your Side Tables
Like any painting project, properly preparing the surface is key to getting great results. Follow these steps:
Clean the Surface
Use a cloth with soapy water or degreaser to remove dirt, grease, wax, or built up grime. Rinse and let dry fully.
Lightly Scuff the Surface
Use 220 grit sandpaper to roughen up the table just enough for paint to adhere. Try to get into small grooves, edges and details.
Wipe Off Dust
Dust off all sanded surfaces with a dry cloth so paint doesn't clump on debris.
Apply Primer
For the smoothest finish, apply 1-2 coats of quality primer like Zinsser Bulls Eye. This helps paint stick better. For dark colors, use gray primer first.
Always read instructions for dry time between coats. Now let's dive into picking the perfect type and color of paint for your side tables!
Picking the Right Paint for Your Side Tables
With so many kinds of paint out there, it can get overwhelming. Let's break down commonly used paint options for furniture and things to consider.
Types of Paint
Chalk Paint
Chalk paint is popular for furniture painting because it sticks to surfaces easily without sanding or priming. It has a matte finish and can be distressed. Brands like Annie Sloan are most common.
Acrylic Paint
Water-based acrylic paint works on most surfaces. It dries fast and comes in any color. Use a bonding primer for smooth finishes. Easy clean up with water.
Milk Paint
Eco-friendly milk paint has been used for centuries. It has no VOCs or odor and a matte finish. Can't create smooth surfaces or handle distressing.
Spray Paint
After properly priming, spray paint can create a smooth finish quickly. Use light coats, allowing proper dry time between to prevent drips.
Sheen Level
Paint sheens range from matte to high gloss. Sheen impacts durability and appearance. Consider:
Matte
Flat, non-reflective finish good for hiding imperfections. Not very durable.
Satin
Subtle sheen resists stains and dirt better than matte. Easy touch ups.
Semi-Gloss
Shinier finish good for high-traffic areas like kids' rooms. Resists moisture and washing.
Gloss
Super shiny and reflective surface. Very durable and stain resistant once cured.
Color Selection
The most fun part - picking colors! Consider the room the tables will live in. Do you want to blend in or make a bold statement? Accent an existing color scheme or add fresh contrast? Anything goes!
Create inspiration boards with paint swatches, room photos, color palettes and fabric swatches. Order samples to view colors in real life before committing to a full can.
Now let's explore easy ideas to advanced painting techniques for stunning results!
Painting Techniques and Ideas
Ready to start painting your side tables? Try these fun ideas ranging from simple to more advanced.
Solid Colors
Stick to one color with varying sheens on details. Try bright colors or deep tones like navy blue. Or keep it neutral for flexibility.
Distressed Look
After painting, scuff edges and details lightly with sandpaper. Then apply dark glaze over while still wet and wipe away high points to expose basecoat color beneath.
Stenciled Patterns
Use stencils to create intricate designs like florals or geometrics. Consider areas like tabletop or just drawer fronts. Have fun with it!
Faux Finishes
From wood grain to crackle paint, faux finishes can mimic expensive materials or create aged charm.
Metallic Accents
Add gold, rose gold or brass accents along edges, hardware or decorative details.
Contrasting Colors
Using two colors like navy blue and crisp white together makes details pop. Or try soft colors like blush pink and sage green for a gentle contrast.
Hand-Painted Designs
Channel your inner artist! Paint free-hand vines, abstract shapes or graphic motifs. No artistic talent? Use stencils or stamped images as guides.
Explore, get creative and take risks with paint. Remember it can always be altered, distressed or painted over again if needed. Have fun with the process!
Seal and Protect the Finish
Once painted, properly seal and protect the finish so your new tables withstand wear and tear:
- Allow paint to fully cure as directed, usually 7+ days
- Apply 2-3 thin, even coats of water-based polyurethane with light sanding between
- For added protection on tabletops, apply paste wax and buff into finish
Sealing minimizes scratches, stains, heat damage and fading from UV exposure and kids. Now let's style!
Style Your Newly Painted Side Tables
The possibilities are endless when decorating with painted side tables! Have fun with layering colors, textures, pieces and styles.
Painted side tables are the perfect mini stages or plinths to showcase favorite finds. Display stacks of colorful books, trailing plants, candles, collected shells or artwork.