How to Paint a Dinner Table

Dining room tables, especially those made of wood, can last for generations. Often, however, they can show signs of wear or simply become dated. Freshen the look of your dining room table and give it years of new life by painting it a new color. Paint is inexpensive and it's a simple furniture makeover that you can accomplish in a weekend. With careful preparation and care in your application, your paint job will be durable and last for years. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Put on your dust mask. Sand your dining table with the orbital sander until the entire piece is smooth. Pay special attention to any areas with scuffs, dings or chips so they are as smooth as possible. Vacuum the dust from the sander from your table.

2

Apply wood filler to any holes, dings or chips in your table with the putty knife so the table surface is flat and smooth. Let the putty dry completely. Sand the putty with the medium-grit sandpaper for a smooth finish.

3

Vacuum the entire table to remove excess dust. Wipe the table with wet rags and let dry.

4

Pour the bonding primer in a paint tray and apply a thin, even coat to your dining room table. Let the primer layer dry completely for at least 24 hours.

5

Pour the latex paint in a clean paint tray. Apply a thin coat of the paint to your dining room table, using long, even strokes. Apply the paint in the same direction as the grain of the wood. Allow the paint to dry for 24 hours. Sand down the paint layer gently so it is smooth and even.

6

Apply two to three more coats of paint, allowing each layer to dry between applications. Sand between each paint layer for a satiny smooth finish.

7

Pour the water-based polyurethane satin-finish protectant in a clean paint tray. Apply in a thin, even coat with a clean paint brush. It will appear milky upon application, but it will dry clear. You may want to apply more than one coat, depending on your personal preference. Allow each layer to dry between applications.