We all have a table in our home that we really like, but has more than lived out its days. Quite often it is the coffee table that has been so well loved that it is just a little worn out. Instead of tossing it out, why not learn how to paint your old coffee tables and make them new again?
Prep Area
Before you ever start considering how to paint your old coffee tables, you need to prepare an area that is specifically set up for this project. If you are painting in the garage or in your home, you may want to lay down a painting drop cloth. Even the best of painters will have a spill from time to time.
Remove the Old Finish
Whether your old table had a previous coat of paint or just a clear, protective coating you need to remove all of the added items to the table until you are back to the base wood. This will allow you a smoother painting surface.
For this job you can purchase any paint or varnish remover from your local hardware store and follow the directions on the package.
In some cases, you may have stubborn old paint or varnish that will not come off. This is where you may need to bring in sandpaper to get those coatings removed down to the base wood.
Clean the Surface
Once you have removed all of the old paint or varnish, it's time to make sure you have pristine surface to work with for your painting job. Dust and wipe down the whole tables to remove any particles that are left over from your stripping and sanding job. Any debris left behind when painting can get caught up in the paint and lead to an area that bubbles or chips easily.
Painting
Now it's the time you have been waiting for, time to pull out that new paint. Start by applying a base coat and letting it dry. It is vital that you only paint one layer and allow it to fully dry. Many people become impatient and want to pile on layers of wet paint hoping to complete the project more quickly. This will lead to an unattractive finish and likely send you back to the beginning.
Once your base coat is completely dry, add a second coat. Again, allow this to thoroughly dry before you consider whether or not the piece needs more paint. Continue adding one coat at a time until you have the desired amount and color of paint on your coffee tables.
Finishing Coat
Once you have painted your tables you have one final question to ask yourself, do you want to add a finishing protective coat? Since you were trying to learn how to paint your old coffee tables that had been beaten up from excessive use, it may not be a bad idea to add a simple coat of clear coat as the final layer to give your tables a little extra defense against your active family.
Author Jennifer Akre is an owner of a wide variety of online specialty shops including that offer both items and information on how you can easily furnish and decorate your space. Whether it is console tables for your living room or dining furniture for you newly remodeled home, there are many tips you can use to make any spot both functional and beautiful. Click today and indulge your senses.
