Tired of your painted furniture chipping and peeling? This guide provides a step-by-step approach to achieve a durable and beautiful finish that will last. The secret lies in proper preparation and using the right products, including BEHR® Wax Decorative Finish.
Many people experience the frustration of newly painted furniture that quickly deteriorates. A common mistake is using the wrong type of paint, leading to chipping and peeling. Avoid using leftover latex wall paint on furniture. It simply won't hold up.
The key to a long-lasting finish is using a chalk-based paint combined with a wax finish. This combination mimics the look of a factory finish and provides exceptional durability.
Begin by removing any hardware from the furniture piece. If there are rough or damaged areas, sand them down. Lightly sand the entire piece if the existing finish is glossy. Use 80 grit sandpaper for effective results. If you have significant wood damage, be sure to check out this post about how to repair gouges, wood rot, etc.
Thoroughly clean the furniture piece. Use a cleaning spray of your choice, such as Simple Green, to remove any dirt or grime.
If painting a previously unpainted piece made of wood with tannins (like redwood or cedar), apply a quick coat of primer. This prevents the tannins from bleeding through the paint.
Apply chalk paint to the furniture. Chalk paint is more durable than other paints and provides a smooth, matte finish. Brush on the paint, applying two coats. Allow the paint to dry to the touch for about an hour between coats, but wait two hours between coats.
Once the paint is completely dry, it's time to apply the wax finish. Use BEHR® Wax Decorative Finish in Clear. The wax will slightly darken the finish and add depth.
Apply a thin coat of wax using light "x" motion strokes. Before applying the wax, offload extra wax on a piece of scrap cardboard. After the wax has dried to the point of becoming slightly tacky (a couple of minutes), buff it with a soft cloth which should result in a slight sheen and a smooth finish.
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