Spray painting furniture is an easy and affordable way to give your old pieces a fresh, new look. With some simple preparation and technique, you can completely transform faded, damaged furniture into beautiful showpieces for your home. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to spray paint furniture like a pro.
Choose the Right Paint
Choosing the proper spray paint is crucial for getting flawless results on your DIY furniture makeover. Here are the main types of spray paint to consider:
Enamel Paint
Enamel paint provides a gorgeously smooth, glass-like finish that really makes furniture pop. It self-levels as it dries, helping hide imperfections in the surface underneath. Enamel works well on wood, metal, wicker, and plastic. Opt for glossy, satin, or matte sheens.
Lacquer Paint
Lacquer paint lays down super durable, protective coats that resist scratches, scuffs, and wear and tear. It dries quickly to a flawlessly smooth, factory-like finish. Lacquer adheres extremely well to wood, metal, and most plastics.
Chalk Paint
Chalk paint gives furniture a trendy, matte “chalked” look. It’s formulated to stick to surfaces with little-to-no prep work required. Chalk paint adheres easily to wood, metal, glass, and more. The matte finish also hides imperfections well.
Metallic Paint
For a glamorous look, metallic paint adds a shimmering finish in gold, silver, copper, bronze and more. It works on wood, plastic, glass, wicker, and metal. Metallic paint does require a smooth, clean surface to look its best.
Primer Spray Paint
Using separate primer allows for better adhesion and more complete coverage when painting furniture with darker colors. Opt for primer in a similar sheen to your topcoat for best results.
No matter what spray paint you choose, always read the label to ensure it will work on your furniture’s material. Shake the can vigorously before spraying for optimum coverage.
Prep the Furniture Surface
Proper prep work is the key to getting smooth, professional-looking spray painted furniture. Follow these steps to prepare your piece:
1. Remove Hardware and Decor
Detach any knobs, handles, or other removable pieces from the furniture. Take off any cushions or additional decor elements that could get painted accidentally.
2. Clean the Surface
Use a rag dampened with soapy water to remove any dirt, grease, or grime so the paint adheres well. Let the piece dry completely. For a super smooth finish, lightly sand the surface with fine grit sandpaper to remove any bumps or flakes in the existing paint or stain.
3. Fill Any Holes & Imperfections
Use wood filler, spackle, or putty to patch and smooth over any holes, dents, or uneven areas in the furniture. Let drying completely according to package directions. Sand again if needed to level the area.
4. Add Primer
For the most flawless coverage, apply a thin coat of primer specially formulated for the furniture material. Let dry fully before adding color.
5. Mask Off Areas
Use painter’s tape and drop cloths to mask off any portions of the furniture you don’t want painted. Cover handles and hardware pieces removed earlier.
6. Work in a Well-Ventilated Area
Spray paint fumes can be strong, so work outside or in a garage with the doors open. Place the furniture piece you’re painting on a drop cloth to catch any drips.
Now the furniture is prepped and ready for its dazzling new paint finish!
How to Spray Paint Furniture Like a Pro
Follow these steps for professional-quality spray painted furniture:
1. Shake the Can Vigorously
Shake the spray paint can vigorously for at least 60 seconds. This mixing ensures the paint sprays on evenly.
2. Test on Cardboard
Press the nozzle to test spray a piece of cardboard. This helps prime the spray valve and ensures the paint is flowing properly before going on the furniture.
3. Hold the Can 6-8 Inches Away
Keep the can about 6 to 8 inches away from the surface as you spray. Get a feel for the spray pattern. The coating should lay on smoothly and evenly.
4. Mist on First Coats
Initially, apply very light mist coats to build up the painting slowly. These tack coats allow better adhesion. Slowly work to wetter, fuller coats.
5. Apply in Sweeping Motions
Use steady, even, back-and-forth motions as you spray. Avoid staying in one spot too long or you may get drips. Overlap passes slightly to ensure complete coverage.
6. Work in Sections
Paint the furniture in sections for the most professional results. Spray the top, then do the sides, then front, etc. Let sections dry before moving on.
7. Let Dry Fully Between Coats
Give each coating time to dry completely according to the directions on the spray paint can before adding another. This prevents drips and runs in the finish.
8. Add Additional Coats as Needed
Apply additional thin coats until you’ve achieved your desired color depth and coverage. Typically 2 to 3 coats does the trick for most pieces.
9. Remove Masking
Once the final coat is completely dry, carefully remove any masking materials. Reattach any hardware pieces you detached before getting started.
10. Seal with Clear Coat (Optional)
For added protection and sheen, apply 1 to 2 light coats of clear sealant spray paint. Let dry fully before using the furniture.
And that’s it – you just transformed a tired old piece into a gorgeous focal point using spray paint! With these simple techniques, you can customize furniture with any color that fits your unique style.
How to Spray Paint Different Furniture Materials
While the basic technique stays the same, there are some specific tricks for getting the best results spray painting common furniture materials:
Painting Wood Furniture
- Use fine grit sandpaper to smooth any rough areas for better paint adhesion
- Fill knots, holes, and imperfections with wood filler before priming
- Opt for primer, lacquer, enamel, or chalk paint formulated for wood
- If staining, use wood bleach to lighten the existing stain before painting
Painting Metal Furniture
- Clean surface with solvents like mineral spirits to remove any oils or residue
- Use a rust-preventative primer made for metals before painting
- Enamel, lacquer, and specialty metallic paints work best for coating metal
- Roughen up slick surfaces with sandpaper so the paint sticks better
Painting Wicker Furniture
- Test paint adhesion on an inconspicuous spot first
- Tightly woven wicker may need light sanding for the paint to grab
- Use thin coats of spray paint to avoid pooling in the weave
- Paint both the inner and outer surfaces for a finished look
Painting Outdoor Plastic Furniture
- Scrub surface with soap and water, then rinse and let dry
- Opt for paint with UV protectants to prevent sun damage
- Use textured spray paints made for plastics to help hide scratches
- Stick to satin, matte, or eggshell finish to disguise imperfections
No matter what material your furniture is made of, proper prep and technique is key for a smooth, lasting finish.
How to Spray Paint Furniture with Different Sheens
The sheen level of your spray paint – glossy, satin, matte, metallic, etc. – impacts the overall look of your furniture when dry. Follow these tips to get stunning results:
Glossy Paint
- Provides a bold, shiny, reflective finish
- Great for making details and edges pop
- Shows imperfections – requires very smooth prep
- Often used as a topcoat to add sheen
Application Tips: Use light coats to prevent drips and runs. Overlap passes slightly for even coverage.
Satin Paint
- Offers subtle luster and richness
- Resists stains, scuffs, and wear better than gloss
- Provides nice contrast against matte finishes
- Ideal mid-level sheen for many furniture pieces
Application Tips: Shake the can vigorously to prevent separation in the paint. Allow proper dry times between coats.
Matte (Flat) Paint
- Provides an understated, timeworn look
- Helps hide scuffs and imperfections well
- More prone to picking up dirt over time
- Harder to clean than glossier finishes
Application Tips: Use a primer first for optimal adhesion and coverage. Apply multiple thin coats for best results.
Metallic Paint
- Adds gorgeous shimmering brilliance
- Great for accent pieces or highlights/edges
- Shows flaws easily – requires flawless base
- Must overlap passes to prevent streaking
Application Tips: Rotate the can as you spray to prevent clogging. Spray from greater distance to control intensity of finish.
Chalk Paint
- Gives a smooth, matte “chalked” look
- Adheres well with minimal surface prep
- Ideal for shabby chic, distressed finishes
- Use soft brush to “age” and add texture
Application Tips: Work in thin coats using sweeping motions. Distress or wax as desired once fully dry.
Experiment with different sheens to find what fits your furniture design vision!
How to Distress Spray Painted Furniture
Achieving a distressed, timeworn look on spray painted furniture requires a little extra technique. Here are some simple methods to try:
Sand Areas Lightly
Once fully dry, use fine grit sandpaper to subtly scuff corners, edges, details, and raised portions to mimic natural wear and tear. Avoid over-sanding through to the substrate.
Employ Damaging Tools
After curing, use screwdrivers, chisels, chains, and other implements to chip away paint along worn areas and edges. Create scrapes, scratches, and indentations for authenticity.
Use Chemical Solutions
Apply specialty distressing solutions once dry to “burn” back and erode paint in focused spots. Or, try wiping areas with paint thinner for controlled wearing.
Add Character with Wax
Rub on clear or tinted wax with a cloth rag to achieve a mottled, timeworn patina. Layer and buff repeatedly for more intensity.
Create Cracks and Peeling
Use tape to mask off areas, then paint over it. Once dry, remove the tape to reveal cracked, peeling edges. Can also scratch away paint to get this effect.
Distressing requires some trial and error to find the right balance. Start slowly and build up the worn vibe for a natural, vintage look. Seal with a protective clear coat when satisfied.
How to Get a Smooth Spray Paint Finish
Achieving a factory-smooth, professional finish with spray paint involves focus and precision. Follow these tips:
1. Choose the Right Paint
Enamel, lacquer, and automotive paints provide the smoothest results. They dry uniformly and self-level well.
2. Prep and Sand Meticulously
Eliminate any surface bumps, flaws, or texture so the paint lays ultra smooth. Primer fills pores.
3. Maintain Optimal Spray Distance
Spraying too close causes drips and textured finish. Keep the can 6 to 10 inches back for smoothness.
4. Use Thin, Even Coats
Apply many thin layers vs. heavy coats. Thick paint can sag and ruin the smoothness.
5. Overlap Passes Slightly
Overlap spray strokes instead of making each pass distinct. This helps create a seamless look.
6. Spray Back and Forth Horizontally
Vertical strokes often produce unevenness on the finish. Keep passes mostly side to side.
7. Let Dry Completely Between Coats
Rushing recoats can lift and distort previous layers. Patient dry times prevents problems.
8. Add Clear Coat for Protection
A clear enamel or lacquer topcoat helps preserve the smooth painted finish from wear.
With the right products and techniques, spray painting can achieve flawless, professional looking furniture with a durable, factory-like coated finish.
How to Use Stencils When Spray Painting Furniture
Using stencils is an easy way to add stylish patterns and designs onto spray painted furniture. Here are some tips:
Choose a Stencil Design
Pick a stencil pattern that fits the scale and look you want. Geometric shapes, floral designs, brand logos and more options are widely available.
Position and Adhere the Stencil
Place the stencil where desired on the prepped furniture. Use painter’s tape on the outer edges to keep it fixed as you spray over the inner cutouts.
Double Check Alignment
With the stencil taped down, view the alignment from multiple angles. Make any needed adjustments before spraying.
Apply Lightly from Above
Holding the spray can higher than usual, lightly mist layers of paint over the stencil openings. Keep paint opacity sheer for clean edges.
Remove the Stencil Quickly
Carefully peel off the stencil immediately after spraying so no bleeding occurs under the edges before the paint dries.
Seal the Paint
Once satisfied with the stenciled design, apply a clear sealer coat to protect the finish from chipping or wearing away.
Stenciling is a simple way to create pro-level detailed effects on spray painted furniture. Have fun with different colors and designs!
How to Add Dimension with Two-Tone Spray Paint
Using two complementary colors of spray paint allows you to add bold dimension and highlights onto furniture pieces. Here are some awesome two-tone techniques:
Spray the Base Color First
Apply your main color over the entire piece as your base. Let dry fully before taping off sections for the secondary color.
Mask Off Sections
Use painter’s tape and drop cloths to isolate the areas you want to remain your base color.
Choose a Contrasting Color
Select a secondary hue that pops against your base color, like navy and yellow, black and white, gray and teal, etc.
Focus on Specific Areas
Concentrate the second color on designated features like edges, accent panels, trim, hardware, details, and more.
Remove Tape Promptly
Carefully peel off tape immediately after spraying so no bleeding occurs before drying. Touch up edges if needed.
Clear Coat for Protection
Seal in the two-tone finish with one or two coats of clear acrylic sealer spray paint.
The contrast of two well-paired paint colors really makes details pop with eye-catching dimension. Get creative with your color combinations!
How to Create an Ombre Effect Spray Painting Furniture
Ombre spray painting involves gradually blending and fading between two or more colors to create a striking visual effect. Follow these tips:
Choose Complementary Colors
Pick 2-3 hues that transition seamlessly like different shades of blue, green to turquoise, purple to pink.
Decide On Color Layout
Determine which color will go where – ombre can fade from light to dark, dark to light, or side to side.
Spray Lightest Color First
Basecoat the lightest hue where you want that color to concentrate most. Let dry before the next layer.
Overlap Into Second Color
Overlap your spray into the next section while slowly releasing the nozzle to create a blurred, blended area between shades.
Repeat Steps with Remaining Colors
Continue overlapping spray between colors until you fill the entire piece for a smooth ombre effect.
Employ Paint Dabbing
For another ombre technique, spray colors onto sponges or rag and dab onto surface, overlapping hues.
Ombre spray painted furniture provides depth, visual interest, and a hint of DIY artistry. The key is slowly building those softened color transitions.
How to Use Chalk Paint for a Shabby Chic Look
Chalk paint – with its matte, porous finish – is perfect for creating shabby chic style furniture with these steps:
Lightly Sand Surface
For strong adhesion, scuff up the surface slightly with fine sandpaper so the chalk paint grabs hold.
Apply Thin Chalk Paint Coats
Use sweeping strokes and a light touch to build up thin, even layers of chalk paint. Let dry between coats.
Sand Edges to Distress
Once fully dry, use sandpaper to rough up corners, edges, raised sections and details. Avoid exposing bare substrate.
Further Wear with Tools
Use screwdrivers, chisels, chains, or other implements to simulate realistic worn spots and scratches.
Remove Paint in Key Areas
Dab chemical removers, solvents, or paint thinner onto the surface to erase paint in focused distressing spots.
Add Dimension with Wax
Rub clear or tinted wax all over piece using circular motions. Remove excess for attractive mottling.
The naturally matte, porous nature of chalk paint makes achieving a convincing shabby chic patina much easier. Protect the finish with a matte sealer when done distressing.
How to Fix Common Spray Paint Problems
Don’t panic if an issue pops up as you spray paint furniture – here are some quick troubleshooting tips:
Drips or Runs: Allow more dry time between coats. Hold can farther away and make lighter passes.
Streaking: Shake can vigorously before use and apply in steady back-and-forth strokes.
Bubbling: Paint is drying too fast. Apply thinner coats in cooler conditions.
Chipping: Did not allow proper cure times. Use primer and seal with protective clear coat.
Flaking: Surface not prepped correctly. Sand away any existing flaking paint before respraying.
Peeling: Clean and