Before & after Lake Breeze dresser

I have a lot of people ask me how I paint my furniture!

I am no expert. . .

but by trial and error-

meaning ruining a few pieces,

I have learned a few things.

Every piece I paint, I do a little different.

Depending on the look I want or on what kind of wood it is, etc. etc. etc.

I am really conflicted on what style I love,

I love the vintage white &

and the pottery barn stained furniture,

and I like the modern fun bold colors!

This dresser is made of a pine, very light and easy to paint.

I did not prime this piece, because I wanted to distress and let the wood show through.

I used a flat or matte paint, it goes on great, but you have to either put a stain or a poly on it to seal and protect it.

On this one I used a poly!

Want to see it. . .

My new favorite!Before

You can see the sun coming up, I paint early in the morning before it is so blasted hot!

I had already tested the paint on a drawer, and then I remembered the before picture!

A few knobs were missing!

I take the hardware off first and put in a baggie .

I always put a note in the baggie, identifying what piece of furniture it belongs to.

I forget!

This dresser needed a little repair, to make it strong and functional.

There is nothing worse, than drawers that won't work.

Then a little goo gone!

It works slick as a whistle!

The stickers from the DI thrift shop seem to be very sticky.

Along with other goo, I try not to think what it could be- ugh!

Always some sanding, sometimes with my electric sander, sometimes with this!

Elmer's natural wood filler is used to fill some major holes.
On this piece, I wanted a few dings and dents, so I only repaired the big holes!

I use a dry paint brush to brush it off, and get in the crevices, then a tack cloth to finish it off.
thanks Michelle for that piece of advice!

Now the worst part is over and the fun part begins!
Painting!

and a diet pepsi!

I rolled this with paint, then I went over with a paint brush.
I lightly distress it.
I always use the fine sand block to lightly go over it after I paint!
It gives it the smooth look your looking for!
Then I apply polyurethane with a sponge brush!

I love the color - Valspar Lake Breeze from Lowe's. I used the knobs I bought from TJ Maxx!
I also bought some wood knobs from Lowe's and painted them the same color, so as not to take away from the rosette knobs!

Then I take an after picture!
As you can tell I am not a photographer, but my daughter Erin is!
I am sure she shutters at my pictures!

One of kind, for sure!
Why would you ever buy a new piece of furniture when you can do this. . . .

I would love to know your tricks, or email me a picture of something you have painted!
Come on family and friends, I know your doing this!
linked to:

http://www.hopestudios.blogspot.com/