On a weekend, painting a dresser, cabinet, or end table is a doable task. It simply takes a little time and money, yet it frequently has a significant impact on a space. You will ultimately have an item that more closely matches your personality and sense of style.
These painted furniture ideas demonstrate how to personalize what you already own by utilizing finishes, colors, and details.
Match the Wall Paint
Choosing the right paint color for your furniture can be as simple as looking at your walls. In this space, the walls are painted in Pink Ground, while the dresser features Sulking Room Pink by Farrow & Ball, creating a seamless and stylish blend.
Try a Limewash Finish
Limewashing isn’t just for walls—it can also transform furniture by giving it an aged, textured look. This finish is ideal for revitalizing older pieces or adding character to new ones.
Applying limewash works best on porous surfaces like raw wood. If your piece is painted or made of metal, you’ll need a primer or prep coat to ensure the limewash adheres properly.
Use Chalk Paint
Reupholstering chairs can be costly and time-consuming, but using chalk paint on the fabric offers an affordable alternative.
Ursula Carmona of Home Made by Carmona refreshed a vintage chair with chalk paint, applying it in circular motions to keep the fabric’s texture intact as it dried.
Coordinate Paint Colors
A fresh coat of paint can make secondhand furniture pieces work together effortlessly. By painting mismatched items in the same shade, you create a sense of unity while still allowing unique shapes to shine through, preventing a uniform or overly coordinated look.
Try High-Gloss Paint
Instead of opting for a standard satin finish, consider high-gloss paint for a sleek, modern touch. A glossy black coat can make a traditional piece feel contemporary while also adding durability—perfect for high-use furniture like chairs.
Update an IKEA Find
A fresh coat of paint can elevate basic IKEA pieces into custom-looking furniture. Elm Terrace Interior revamped PAX wardrobes with a built-in effect by sanding, wiping them down, and using a durable emulsion or eggshell paint for a flawless finish.
Pair Paint with Fabric
Transform an old china or curio cabinet into a charming kids’ wardrobe with a fresh coat of pastel paint. Adding fabric behind the glass hides clutter and softens the look. For extra safety, replace glass panels with chicken wire to make the piece more child-friendly.
Refinish Your Piano
Whether you’ve inherited a piano that doesn’t match your decor or found a free one in need of a makeover, repainting it can give it new life. With the right tutorial and some patience, you can transform an outdated piano into a stunning focal point.
Try a Distressed Look
If a freshly painted piece feels too polished, distressing it can add warmth and character. A simple way to achieve this look is by lightly sanding the edges, creating a naturally aged effect. More advanced distressing techniques can also add depth and dimension.
Paint the Base
Painting just the legs of a farmhouse table or bench can create contrast and visual interest. Leaving the tabletop as raw wood minimizes wear and tear, ensuring a longer-lasting finish while maintaining a rustic appeal.
Detail With Paint
Adding a pop of color to a furniture’s trim or detailing can make a basic piece stand out. A vibrant hue like red can highlight ornate carvings or intricate designs, bringing life to an otherwise neutral space.
Paint a Dresser
Instead of purchasing a temporary changing table, repurpose a sturdy dresser by painting it to match the nursery. When your child outgrows it, a simple repaint can transform it into a timeless piece that adapts to their growing style.
Mix Paint With Wallpaper
If you’re painting a display cabinet, consider adding wallpaper to the interior for a striking contrast. A bold pattern behind glass shelves adds depth and makes decorative items pop against the backdrop.
Refresh the Kitchen Island
Upgrade a standard kitchen island by painting it to match your cabinetry. This simple trick can make a store-bought island look custom-made, seamlessly integrating it into your kitchen’s design.
Stencil on a Design
Using a stencil can turn a plain furniture piece into a one-of-a-kind statement. If painting over a veneer surface, be sure to apply a clear primer beforehand to help the design adhere properly and last longer.
Pair With Brass Hardware
Brass handles can sometimes blend into natural wood tones, but painting the furniture in a contrasting shade—like a deep blue—will make the metallic elements stand out beautifully.
Paint Matching Cabinet Knobs
For a monochromatic aesthetic, paint dresser knobs in the same color as the furniture. This works particularly well with round wooden knobs, creating a seamless, modern finish.
Leave Some Wood Exposed
A two-toned look can highlight the natural beauty of wood while adding a fresh twist. Painting part of a dresser while leaving sections of exposed grain creates a striking contrast that blends rustic and modern styles.
Go With a Classic Neutral
Too many wood tones in one space can clash. Painting furniture in a neutral shade like navy or slate can balance out the room while adding a subtle touch of color that complements various decor styles.
Use Bright Earth Tones
A piece doesn’t need a bold primary color to make a statement. An earthy burnt orange, for example, adds warmth and personality while still blending harmoniously with other elements in the room.