Transform your dated veneer end table with simple directions, necessary materials, and advice for unforeseen problems.
While updating the bedroom at our beach cottage, I decided to incorporate coastal paint colors.
Because blue is my preferred shade, I aimed for a watery aqua blue tone.
Due to the hurried nature of attempting this makeover in a single day (which proved impossible), I lack a sharp initial photo of the nightstand, though it appears faintly on the right in this image:
This piece was part of furniture received for my High School graduation. It has been reliable and solid, yet I am tired of the dark veneer appearance.
Nevertheless, I felt apprehensive since I had never worked with such a glossy and slick paint before.
Materials Required for Painting a Veneer Cabinet (End Table)
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- Oil Based Primer
- Foam or budget paint brushes that can be discarded after using the oil based primer.
- Latex paint in your preferred hue.
- A quality paint brush for applying the latex paint (This one is truly my absolute favorite!).
- Fine grit sandpaper
- Antiquing gel (optional addition)
A Guide to Painting a Veneer Cabinet, Table, or Endtable, Step by Step
- Thoroughly clean the furniture item and ensure it is completely dry; paint will not adhere to damp or soiled surfaces.
- Apply the oil based primer using the inexpensive paint brush. (**Reminder: Modern water based primers may suffice for veneer furniture; consult your local paint expert for specific advice.)**
- After the primer dries, apply your chosen latex paint color. Load your brush adequately to use long, sweeping strokes, minimizing visible lines, but avoid over-saturating or allowing drips.
- Wait for the first coat to dry completely before applying subsequent layers, referencing the paint can for drying times between coats. Gently sand between coats with fine sandpaper.
Helpful Suggestions for Painting Veneer Furniture
These are some observations I made immediately following the completion of the project:
- I believe the spray on Kilz primer would yield superior results (?). Achieving even coats without drips with a brush was quite challenging.
- Foam brushes degrade quickly when used with oil based paint; anticipate needing several replacements (or opt for non-foam, budget paint brushes).
- I needed to strike a balance between working diligently and moving swiftly, as the paint dried very rapidly!
- When frustration arose from dried drips, I recalled wise counsel: embrace the drips.
This proved to be a valuable lesson for me.
The chosen hues for this
After applying several coats of primer, I used 2 coats of Benjamin Moore’s Cloud White on the base and drawers, and Behr’s Tide Pools on the top, ensuring light sanding between each layer.
Stepping back, I anticipated a truly lovely appearance.
My mother's term, “Ish-Ta,” fit this moment; it resembled nursery decor, which was not my initial vision.
In a moment of need, I utilized dark chocolate antiquing gel, which successfully transformed the piece with careful brushing and wiping.
This change shifted its feel from nursery-like to suitable for a master bedroom in mere minutes.
Here is the final presentation: The Beach Cottage Bedside Table.
Imagine this right next to the beach!
Although I could stop here, I must mention the hardware, which gives it a look resembling a large smiley face; does anyone else notice this?
I'll categorize this as a 'learning experience'; next time, I plan to fill the central holes and drill two to the sides for symmetry.
For the time being, a basket of afghan will provide some tasteful concealment.
To view the complete bedroom transformation, please click here:
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- For quick dresser repainting, I have compiled all my helpful advice here!
