It is possible to repaint your drawer fronts, and in fact, it is a rather popular option for homeowners to consider. However, it is important to understand that it is an involved process, one that can become complicated if you are not careful. Fortunately, with some information on the process, you can ensure that repainting your drawer fronts is simple and easy but if you think you can’t do it. Going to a professional painter is preferable to lessen your worries.
The first step is to remove all items from your shelves. Make sure you empty your drawers, too. Once you have cleared out everything, you can get to work on the paint. Before applying the paint, make sure you prepare the surface properly. For example, if the surface is made of wood, you need to sand it down and smooth it out.
If you’re using a surface such as a plywood board, be sure to apply a clear veneer over the old surface. This will help protect it and also allow you to paint over it more easily in the future. If you’re using a metal surface, make sure you sand it down to the bare metal. You may need to use an orbital sander to accomplish this.
When it comes to painting, it’s important to remember that any imperfections on the surface will be visible when the paint dries. So, sanding, scraping, or polishing may be necessary. However, if you have very minor imperfections, there may be no harm in leaving them alone. Also, you should note that your finished product will likely cost more than a new surface.
To apply the new paint, use a tack cloth apply it to your drawer fronts. Wipe it across the surface, making sure it covers the entire area. If there are any raised areas, use a pin to straighten them out before applying the paint. Allow the entire area to dry, then use a sander to finish the repainting.
Once the entire area is dry, clean it with water to remove any residue or dust before beginning the next step. Apply the primer to the surface. It will cover up any flaws in the paint. To make sure the primer adheres better to the wood, work a piece of paper underneath the primer before you begin working on your project. Using a putty knife, smooth the edges of the board.
Once the surface is smooth, cover it with the unfinished part of the drawer. The unfinished part will prevent the glue from sticking to the surface. Use the same tack cloth to dab it down and to smoothen it before using the staining pad to apply the stain. Let it dry overnight, and then apply the stain to the board.
If you are not happy with the color you have chosen, you may want to consider different ones. You can paint one panel at a time. You can also choose different shades for the different areas of the drawer, depending on which you are working on. Just be sure to allow plenty of drying time between coats of paint.
Be sure to clean any spills or other damage immediately. Stains that are left will only make the paint chip off. If the surface of the drawer is peeling, you may have to sand it down. Make sure to sand it carefully so it is even. The last step is to paint it the color you are choosing.
With these basic steps, you should have no problem repainting your drawer. But just in case something goes wrong, there are some steps you may want to follow. For instance, if you have to make any repairs or do a strip test, be sure to do it before painting the rest of the drawer. You may find yourself having to strip down your entire drawer to get to the repaired area.
While repainting your drawer fronts, always keep in mind that you don’t paint them all the way down to the surface. There are probably places on your furniture where the paint doesn’t reach. These may be hidden by the cushions or by the bedding. You can fix this by sanding off the excess paint. You may have to move things around until you get them to lie flat and smooth out with the sandpaper.
The good news is that if you find that repainting your drawer fronts is difficult, there are still other solutions. One thing you can do is to fill the cracks with wood filler. This is something you can buy at a home-supply store in either a spray or a bag form. You should always make sure to apply this product according to the package directions. Once you’ve primed and prepared the surface, you can paint it in the color of your choice and see how easily it comes out looking great!