Paint Wood Furniture Without Sanding
Do you have a piece of old furniture that you’d like to paint?
In this post, you’ll learn quick tips to paint wood furniture without sanding! I’m also sharing my tips on how to determine if your wood furniture has lead-based paint.
Painting your older wood furniture is a quick win you can easily accomplish in just one day. So, if you’re looking for an easy and easy DIY project, give this painting wood tutorial a go!
When I first moved out of my parent’s home and went off to college, I was on a strict budget for decorating my apartment. I knew that I could make my place nice and as an art major, I was pretty familiar with painting various objects already.
Off I went to the local Goodwill and thrifts for my furnishings and came back to paint and sew.
Here’s a fun shot of me back in the day, and the wall behind me was decorated with a thrifted bed sheet that I tie-dyed. Purple and yellow…which definitely aren’t my colors now, haha!
On the bed, I had an Indian-style bedspread from Pier One and a sheepskin throw. Fashion-wise I recall bleaching out my bell bottoms and fringing the ends.
Style comes back every 30 years and just take a look now at some of the sites like Anthropologie or the Coachella Festival and you’ll see what I mean. But I digress to talking about painting wood furniture.
When I shop for used furniture in thrift stores, I look for pieces that have authentic old paint when possible. It’s difficult to replicate the look of paint that has been on a piece for decades and is often quite easy for me to distinguish when a painted surface is new.
When thrift shopping, make sure the piece is in good condition and avoid anything with deep scratches as it will probably need wood filler and it will turn in to into a more complicated renovation project. I usually try to stay away from laminate furniture or pieces with wood veneer tops.
The table below is one that I found years ago hiding in a corner of an antique shop like a forgotten jewel. I adopted this half-table orphan for $10 and love the white paint that is all chippy and shabby. Surfaces like this really speak my language style!
The paint in this table is likely oil-based and that means it possibly may have lead in the mix, which takes me to my first topic…
Let’s touch on lead-based paint and our options when painting wood without sanding:
How Can You Tell If You Have Lead-Based Paint?
It’s safe to assume that any furniture painted before around 1960 would have lead-based paint. Don’t be alarmed about it though, and DO NOT sand it unless you take it outside and wear basically a full hazmat suit and respirator! You probably don’t want to do that though.
I have a couple of recommendations instead if you want to mingle old painted pieces into your home.
Can You Paint Over Lead-Based Paint?
If you are concerned about lead being in your old pieces, you can purchase an inexpensive test kit that will tell you. Find that HERE. If your piece does test positive for lead you have choices.
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Do Nothing
This is what I do since the lead doesn’t leach out and I have no babies who might teeth on it or dogs who might naw on it.
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Seal It
If you see paint peeling off, then it’s time to coat it with a sealer. THIS SEALER is a particularly good one and will prevent any issues and go right over your painted surface.
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Prime It First
If you are going to paint over furniture a safe bet is to prime it first. THIS is my favorite primer by far and we use it in our home when we paint over any old paint that might be oil-based or have lead.
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Paint Over It
Yes, you can paint right over old painted furniture without sanding. You will need something called a DEGLOSSER and you can use this on OLD KITCHEN CABINETS to prep for new paint as well! Find my favorite Deglosser HERE.
How To Paint Wood Furniture Without Sanding
Unless it’s a piece of furniture that you have painted before, you likely won’t know if the existing paint is oil or water-based. If it’s water-based you can repaint it with whatever you’d like. Where you’ll run into trouble is if the current paint is oil-based and you are planning on updating it with water-based. Not impossible though, you’ll need to take some steps to prevent the paint from peeling.
Remember: Oil resists water but water does not resist oil.
Do you have to sand furniture down before painting it?
I purchased the nightstand above years ago (a matching set of two) and it had the factory finish on at the time. I have repainted it several times since, but with the first rendition I knew that I needed to prep it with the lacquer finish it had. I didn’t sand it and instead chose to prime it with a stain-blocking water-based primer.
Before attempting to paint wood furniture without sanding, be sure to wipe off any dust and dirt from your furniture. I like to use tack cloth, but you could use an old white t-shirt.
If it’s too grimy, use TSP mixed with water to remove the dirt.
I could have easily used a deglosser as mentioned above, but when painting light colors over dark colors, it’s important to remember to use a good primer to prevent bleed-through.
Above is the nightstand today in a beautiful shade of blue called Mystical Blue by Benjamin Moore #792. It’s regular semi-gloss wall paint, that’s right…WALL PAINT!
How many coats of paint does it take to cover wood furniture completely?
I have been painting my furniture with wall paint for over 30 years and never have had an issue with durability. I do make sure to prep everything beforehand, pick the right paint for the project and use the appropriate tools. Some pieces need a special paint brush for detailed work, others a foam roller if there’re larger surfaces, etc.
For this piece, the only prep work I did was to clean the furniture off and gave it a first coat. Then, I finished it with a second coat of paint to get this pretty finish.
Do you have to add a sealant when painting wood furniture?
There is no sealer or wax needed and it should hold up well to all of the abuse that it might be giving going forward.
Favorite Types Of Paint For Wood Furniture
These are some of my favorite types of paint for wood furniture. All have their benefits and are simple and easy to use.
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Latex Paint
It’s my favorite because it’s inexpensive and durable and I like the smooth finished look. There are many brands these days that are low VOC so fewer paint smells and they dry quickly. For intricate furniture or to make the job go faster, you can opt to use a paint sprayer. I have the Wagner Flexio Power Sprayer and have used it often to paint chairs.
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Chalk Paint
I’m not the biggest fan of chalky paint and have used several types of it.
There’s nothing wrong with it per se, but the texture that chalky finish paint offers is not up my alley. I’ve seen far too many “shabby chic” renditions that are more on the shabby than the chic side. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide!
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Milk Paint
I love milk paint! One of my favorite pieces of furniture is my family room coffee table that I painted with milk paint about 25 years ago. The finish is like butter and I waxed it only once upon completion.
Milk paint is one of my ultimate favorite painting options. Is the one that I feel can replicate the appearance of “old paint” while having great durability. It certainly is a long-lasting painting option that can endure the wear and tear of time.
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Mineral Paint
Another fave!
If you’re looking for the best outdoor paint for your DIY project, consider mineral paint! It’s one of the most durable paint options for DIY outdoor projects on the market.
It’s one of the best options to paint without sanding as mineral paint has a fantastic adhesion to almost any surface. It comes in different sheen options which is a huge plus too!
What is the best furniture paint?
After years of painting furniture, I can tell you that there is no such thing as the best paint for wood furniture. It’s all a matter of your preference and the project at hand.
You’ll need to experiment and see which you like to work with, what purpose your furniture piece will have in the long run, and what paint gives you the look you’re after.
If you enjoy painting and repurposing furniture, here are a few other posts you might like to see and questions are always welcome!
GIVE FURNITURE A CHALKY FINISH WITHOUT CHALK PAINT
HOW TO PAINT HARDWOOD FLOORS LIKE A PRO
Beautifully painted furniture Janet. Love those French end tables. Pinning for inspiration!
Thank you Michelle…much appreciated!
Janet painting furniture is my favorite thing to do in the whole wide world. But would you believe I have never tried using wall paint. Well, that is not entirely true. I have used it when mixing it in with Plaster of Paris to make my homemade chalky finish paint. Great tips here on lead in the furniture. I generally try not to sand old pieces but have been lucky to find most of mine without any paint. I loved seeing the younger Janet in the photo.
I wish that I had more time for this sort of thing because it’s so relaxing to paint. Thanks Mary
Those end tables are gorgeous!!! Love the color you used. I totally agree, no need to sand the heck out of your furniture. The first I heard of that practice was when I started reading DIY blogs online years ago and I couldn’t figure out why they were doing it, except maybe they wanted to make the process seem more involved than it needs to be.
Best comment ever, lol! I think that some bloggers are not necessarily as life experienced as our demographic. We have literally done it all!
Great tips Janet. Especially if you are worried about lead. I really never thought about that but it makes so much sense. Pinning this to save for the next thrift store find.
Thank you Patti…I don’t really worry about lead, but if it was chipping and flaking I sure would.
This is such a great article Janet! Packed with useful information for all of us that love to paint old treasures. Your re-painted pieces are stunning. I especially love the two gorgeous end tables. You did a fabulous job with this piece. Thank you for spreading the knowledge.
Janet
Rosemary & Thyme
Thanks so much Janet…I appreciate your kind words!
I haven’t tried to do anything like this before. I might have to one day and see how it comes out. I love your furniture.
Oh my gosh that is beautiful! This is exactly what I am looking for! I want to make my house looks a little lighter, but I don’t want to buy all new furniture. I think I might have to try this!
You should give it a try…really not difficult and I’m always here to answer questions!
Great tips, Janet!!!
I agree with the wall paint being easy & durable!
Loved the “vintage” pic! You look adorable! ?
The night tables came out beautifully! Love the color!
Blessings and Beauty ~
Kathleen
Thank you Kathleen for stopping by! I’m not sure why more people don’t try the less expensive and super easy method of wall paint first! xo
The pieces I want to redo always have chipped paint coming off so I thought you always had to sand it off before painting again. I do like to use the different types of paint you use.
Painting is so therapeutic. I use left over wall paint all the time. You are really good at this. Love the cute photo of you!. Such true about the Hazemat suit. :)) I cringe when I think of all the painting I did with out nose protection.
Maria
The paints these days are definitely more environmentally and user friendly, but if there is lead….then not the case!
Super tips Janet and love the color you chose. I have used house paint many times on furniture.
I have cans of chalk paint that I’m going to use because I already spent the money. I don’t mind the texture. What I don’t care for is wax.
If I want to add another layer I use a wash technique with water and chalk paint. Adds texture and dimension for me. I also at times use clear glaze mixed with raw umber pigments. A ton of playtime and love the look I can achieve.
Only waxes I use is small amounts of gilding wax in small doses.
Enjoyed seeing your younger picture
Cindy
I’ve tried to make this a simple DIY, but all of what you referred to I’ve used too! Isn’t painting furniture like therapy? A lot less expensive than going to a therapist too…LOL!
I love the old photo and your nightstands! I learned so much about painting furniture while reading this post. I used chalk paint for the first time about a year ago – late to the game – and wasn’t that crazy about the texture. I thought it was just me because painting furniture is not my expertise. I’m relieved to know I’m not alone.
Thanks Alli and happy painting!
Great post Janet! Love the blue end tables. I actually have had a lot of trouble using latex wall paint on furniture. I’ve painted a couple pieces, the most recent an old French dresser. We sprayed it with a Wagner sprayer and I gave it at least a week or more to cure. The dresser, as well as the other piece I hand painted stick to whatever object I place on it even months later. When I pick an object up it is sticky and leaves a mark on the surface of the dresser wherever the object was. Both pieces I’ve painted with latex paint have done this. Any suggestions as to what I’m doing wrong? I also used Benjamin Moore paint.
Without seeing the pieces Jennifer it’s hard to tell, but I’ll bet that they needed at least to be de-greased. If you are planning on repainting I would probably give them a light sanding at this point, then a primer coat and a top coat of your favorite color. Let me know how this works if you do it.
This is really helpful. I’d love to go through and repaint some of my furniture. It might be fun!
Excellent color choice! The finished product looks spectacular. You’ve provided excellent tips, so thank you for sharing those!
These are really helpful tips. I love painting furniture around this time of year. I can’t wait to start my next projects.
Great post! I want to paint some of my furniture but it scares me! I just don’t know where to start or what to use. I see all these DIY’s and they are all different. This is very informative and I like that you linked to some of your favorites. I’ve only spray painted things for outdoors, just as old window frames, or tin or old benches, etc., always using the spray Rustoleum 2x. It does work great for outdoor things. I have old pieces that are just stained dark brown with a little bit of a glossy finish. I just don’t know how to begin on those. Do I sand first, primer first, what? I like the idea of using the deglosser. I don’t like sanding for some reason, just tedious and messy! I would love to hear the answer to the above question about things sticking to a painted piece, even months after painting it. That would be just my luck t have that happen! I will attempt something one of these days! Marilyn
Hi Marilyn! Sanding is tedious and I honestly rarely do it. I would probably use a deglosser first, a coat of primer and then a coat of paint (or two if necessary). Sanding is the worst part, so I avoid it like the plague. Have never had an issue…hope this helps.
Love the floral white candelabra in the picture. Where oh where can I find one like it?
Thank you! It’s a vintage piece that I had painted white.
These are some wonderful tips, the part on lead paint was really interesting, I have to admit I wasn’t sure what you should do with that.
I took a dresser out of my daughters room and I have wanted to repaint it and I had anxiety about it because I’m not a DIYer person but this made me feel at ease a little
DIY project is my thing I love saving up money in transforming our home into a much inviting place to live in. I have been wanted to paint our accent table by the hall way. You inspire me by this post.
These look really nice. I plan to paint over my cabinets. I wonder if I could use some of the same tips on them.
I love secondhand furniture! We have painted quite a bit of it over the years and these tips will be helpful for the next project!
I love the idea of adding a new layer of paint over pre-loved and antique furniture, I would have never thought to use wall paint and I’ve never heard of milk paint before, but it’d love to try it!
I’ll try your tips on our kitchen cabinets. I’ve been wanting to paint them for a while now, but I don’t want to sand them. 🙂
Just make sure you give them at least one coat of varnish when you are through.
I never find the need to varnish when using this type of paint and have pieces around here for years that are still looking brand new 😉
What a fab idea! I think we have a few here that needs painting. Love those tips!
Oh what a great solution! I didn’t realize that once you see paint peeling off that you can just seal it. That is fantastic to know!
When we bought our first home, the inspector of the house said that the paint used in it might contain lead. He suggested the same as you did here.
Thank you for sharing all your tips and tricks, Janet. Since we have moved into our new home, I have been wanting to paint a table and a dresser. But, I wasn’t exactly sure of all the steps. Thanks for helping me. Pinning so I can refer to this post soon.
Good luck in your new home Meegan….enjoy the process of making it yours!
Wow, this looks awesome! I love the updates and changes that were made! Looks great!
Hi, what product / color did you use on the drawer pulls? The color on the tables is gorgeous and the handles make it!
Susan, I used Rub-N-Buff. You can find it here: https://amzn.to/2DEAUBt I love this assortment and the tubes last forever!
I have painted a lot of furniture using a variety of paints but haven’t ever thought to check for lead. I didn’t check but when I painted old windows, I painted over it without any sanding. I’m getting for a lot of painting projects.
Being in construction on our family business we do check for lead. Most times we have the painters just seal it and if it’s outside it’s not an issue to remove.
I’ve never sanded ahead of time because I’m lazy but this tips will probably make it a lot easier next time! haha!
It’s not really necessary in many cases…especially if you know what the previous layer is!
I have an older home(96 years old) with beautiful original wooden built-ins and wooden floors. I don’t want to paint those but have been eyeing some period furniture that I can paint to break up the wood on wood look. Your post was just in time and makes me feel comfortable I can do this. Thanks for the tips!
Hope this did help and thanks for stopping by Susan!
So you do not put a “finish” coat of wax or acyrlic on your piece? I painted a bedroom set before in white (Behr) paint and it turned yellow after a short while. I’m getting ready to paint a piece of furniture white again and I’m afraid it will yellow again ….
I don’t care for acrylic sealers personally and prefer a natural wax instead if I feel the need to seal. For white I would not seal it…correct.
Thank you Janet for all of your painting tips and beautiful photos! I have an old headboard that has lead base paint. It is not chipping and I intend to prime it and paint over it. My concern is that it needs to be anchored or screwed into the bed frame so it won’t wobble. I am not sure about doing this because of the lead base. Do you have any suggestions for this process? Would you have any suggestions for this process?
I’m glad to provide the info Karen! In this case I would be sure to seal it and let it dry and you should be fine. The lead isn’t harmful unless you release it into the air by sanding. Sounds like a fun project!
After purchasing some red bamboo looking chairs, two Christmas ago, (Pier One)I have discovered I don’t enjoy touching up the walls the RED paint leaves on them. I want to paint them a lighter softer color, even white would be better. I am not a furniture painter and I was considering removing the cushion and spray painting them. I do not know what kind of paint is on them now. Any suggestions or guidance would be appreciated.
Thank You so much!
It’s hard to say without seeing them in person, but I am not really a chalk paint fan and recommend good quality enamel paint from Benjamin Moore. You might want to do a primer first (easy) and then paint.
I love those tables! The color is perfect for my home, so I will definitely be getting it. I have a question about the piece behind the two blue tables….is that a mantel that you updated? Its lovely and I have a space that could use something similar. Can you provide details? Thanks for providing such great information to us!
Great article, very helpful and encouraging. I bought an old dresser, years ago, and never cared for the dark brown stain. I’m not sure of the style, but you know the type, small, by today’s standards, tiny casters on the feet, and a three piece mirror with the heavy, carved wood around the mirror pieces. When I mentioned painting it, the lady at the consignment shop nearly fainted at the thought that I would ruin the beautiful patina and destroy the value. Ummm yeah, these things were a dime a dozen in the 50’s, you’re only asking $50 for this priceless gem, and it looks like someone dripped nail polish remover on the top and already damaged the finish. Fast forward to 2023, it’s still sitting in a guest bedroom with the original brown stain and a strategically placed tray, to cover the blotches from the polish remover. Do you think I need to do any heavy prep work to paint over the stain, and whatever varnish or shellac they used, or just a good primer? As an FYI, my husband is the type who can turn painting a 2×4 into a week long, major project. You have to make sure both ends are perfectly square and straight, run it through a planer to get it good and smooth, sand it, just in case the planer missed anything, tack cloth, tarp the entire workshop, prime, paint, sand, more tack cloth, 2nd coat of paint, and so on! Not my idea of a good time! 😂
Love the painted blue tables.
That was a fun and simple project!
Beautiful end tables. Did you use a brush?? I thought brush will leave streaks… I want to paint furniture but need your opinion on that?
Yes Nancy, I used a brush as the photos show. Benjamin Moore paint is self leveling so I don’t see brush marks.