
Painting old furniture
Painting Old Furniture
Old furniture often has better materials and sturdier joinery than many new pieces, but years of use can leave it looking tired. Our furniture painting service refreshes your table, dresser, chairs, cabinets, and more with a durable finish that suits your home. Whether you want a modern matte look, a classic satin sheen, or a bold colour change, we help you transform what you already own instead of replacing it.
We work with solid wood, veneer, and many painted surfaces. If your item has scratches, water marks, nicotine staining, or uneven old paint, we prepare it properly so the new coating bonds well and lasts. You get a cleaner look, smoother touch, and a finish that is easier to wipe down and maintain.
What We Paint and When It Makes Sense
Painting is a great option when the structure is sound but the appearance no longer fits your style. We commonly paint dining tables, coffee tables, bedside lockers, chest of drawers, bookcases, TV units, sideboards, kitchen islands, and built in cabinetry. It is also ideal for matching mismatched sets, covering sun fading, or updating inherited pieces while keeping their character.
If the item has wobble, loose joints, misaligned doors, or damaged drawers, we can coordinate the prep work so the finish is not wasted on a piece that needs attention first. In many cases, clients combine painting with furniture repair services to address stability, smooth movement, and proper alignment before the final coat goes on.
Not sure if your furniture is paintable
Some surfaces need extra care, like glossy laminates, waxed wood, or silicone contaminated areas. We assess the material, the existing coating, and how the item is used, then recommend the best approach. When painting is not the right solution, we will tell you up front and suggest alternatives such as refinishing or targeted touch ups.
Our Process, Built for a Long Lasting Finish
A good finish is mostly preparation. We focus on clean lines, even coverage, and strong adhesion so the piece holds up to daily use.
- Assessment and planning. We review the condition, discuss colours and sheen level, and confirm the best paint system for the surface and the room.
- Cleaning and degreasing. Built up polish, grease, and cooking residue can prevent paint from bonding. We deep clean, rinse, and dry fully.
- Repairs and surface prep. We fill chips and dents, smooth rough areas, and sand to create a stable base. If needed, we arrange wood furniture repair so handles, hinges, runners, and joints are right before painting.
- Priming. We use the correct primer to block stains and improve adhesion, especially on tannin rich wood or previously coated surfaces.
- Painting and finishing. We apply multiple thin coats for a consistent colour and professional feel. Where appropriate, we add a protective top coat for improved scratch and moisture resistance.
- Cure time and handover. Paint can feel dry quickly but still needs time to harden. We explain handling and cleaning guidelines to protect the finish.
Colour, Sheen, and Style Options
Choosing the right finish is as important as choosing the right colour. Matte and velvet finishes create a soft, modern look but may show scuffs sooner on high touch surfaces. Satin is a popular balance for cabinets and drawers because it wipes clean while still looking refined. Gloss adds impact and durability but highlights surface imperfections, so it needs more prep work.
We can help you select a colour that works with your walls, floors, and lighting. If you want a two tone look, like a darker top with lighter legs, or a painted body with a natural wood surface, we can plan masking and transitions so the result looks intentional and crisp.
- Neutral colour changes for a timeless update
- Bold feature colours for statement pieces
- Soft heritage tones for classic interiors
- Colour matching guidance when you want continuity across rooms
Care, Maintenance, and Realistic Expectations
Painted furniture is practical, but like any finish it performs best with the right care. We recommend gentle cleaning with a soft cloth and mild soap, and avoiding harsh chemicals or abrasive pads. Coasters and placemats reduce heat and water exposure, especially on dining tables and coffee tables.
If your furniture is used heavily, like kitchen cabinetry or a family dining set, we will recommend a tougher paint system and protective coating. For items that will be moved soon, consider planning painting after relocation, or pairing the job with furniture disassembly and reassembly to reduce handling damage and keep everything aligned.
Booking and What We Need From You
To provide an accurate quote, we usually need photos, approximate dimensions, and a short description of the current finish and any damage. If you already have a colour in mind, share the name or code. If not, we can guide you based on your space and how the piece is used.
We aim for clean workmanship, careful protection of surrounding areas, and a finish that feels smooth and looks even from every angle. If you want to bring life back to a well loved piece and make it fit your home today, we are ready to help.
FAQ
How long does it take to paint a piece of furniture?
Most small to medium items take 1 to 3 days depending on prep, drying, and curing needs. Larger pieces or those needing repairs may take longer. We will confirm a timeline after assessing photos and condition.
Do I need to sand the furniture before it is painted?
In most cases, yes, but the amount varies by surface and existing finish. We typically clean, degloss, and sand enough to ensure strong adhesion and a smooth result. Some pieces also need a bonding primer to prevent peeling.
Can you paint furniture that has scratches or loose parts?
Yes, and it is often best to fix those issues first. We can fill scratches and dents, and we can arrange repairs for loose joints, doors, or drawers so the final finish looks even and lasts longer.