A Step-by-Step Guide to Refinishing A Side Table. How To Paint Furniture White.

Welcome to this step-by-step guide on how to refinish a side table, giving it a fresh white look. 

Whether you're a furniture flipping enthusiast or a beginner looking to start your first project, this tutorial will walk you through the process. We'll be working on two identical side tables, and you can follow along to learn the steps to transform your own furniture.

Tools and Materials You'll Need: Before we dive into the steps, make sure you have the following tools and materials on hand

• Makita Belt Sander - https://amzn.to/4blPvA8 (Amazon)
• 150mm Orbital Sander - https://amzn.to/48AZ381 (Amazon)
• 125mm Battery Orbital Sander - https://amzn.to/3tsws67 (Amazon)
• Makita Battery - https://amzn.to/48rUygc (Amazon)
• 125mm Sanding Disks All Grits https://amzn.to/3ujtYHx (Amazon)
• 150mm Sanding Disks All Grits https://amzn.to/3HIMJXQ (Amazon)
• Tricleanium Degreaser - https://amzn.to/3ufNl47 (Amazon)
• Mini Roller Head 4mm Nap - https://amzn.to/3Oq8Hmk (Amazon)
• Masking Tape (optional, for clean lines)
• Paint Brush - https://amzn.to/3HHDXcE (Amazon)
• Hand Sand Paper - https://amzn.to/48gP3Rt (Amazon)
• Clear Polycrylic or Polyurethane Sealer 

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Now that you have your tools ready, let's move on to the steps:

Step 1: Prepare Your Tables

• Start by clearing the area around the tables and removing any items on or near them.
• If you want to expose the raw timber top, use a belt sander to strip the existing finish. Alternatively, if you're painting the entire piece, proceed to step 4.

Step 2: Sand the Timber Top (Optional)

• If you're exposing the raw timber top, use the belt sander or orbital sander to remove the top finish. Be cautious as the table may move; use your leg to stabilise it.
• For a painted top, scuff sand the surface with a hand sander or sanding pad to create a rough texture for paint adhesion.

Step 3: Apply Masking Tape (Optional)

• If you want clean lines between painted and unpainted sections, apply masking tape along the edges. Press it down firmly to ensure adhesion.

Step 4: Clean the Tables Thoroughly

• Use a degreaser to clean the tables, removing any grime, fingerprints, or dirt. This step is crucial for paint adhesion.

Step 5: Apply Primer

• Select a primer with good adhesive properties, and if you're painting white, ensure it has stain-blocking capabilities.
• Apply a thin, even coat of primer using a paintbrush or roller. Avoid thick coats to prevent drips.
• Check for and address any drips while the primer is still wet. If you miss any, sand them off after the primer dries, and re-prime the affected areas.

Step 6: Allow Primer to Dry

• Follow the drying instructions on the primer can. Proper drying time is essential for a successful finish.

Step 7: Apply the First Coat of Paint

• Use white paint to apply the first coat, whether by brush or roller.
• Again, apply thin coats to achieve a smooth finish. Thin coats are better than thick ones to prevent drips and uneven coverage.
• Let the first coat dry fully.

Step 8: Apply Additional Coats of Paint

• Continue applying thin coats of white paint until you achieve the desired coverage. This may take multiple coats, typically three to five, to get a solid white finish.

Step 9: Create a White Wash for the Timber (Optional)

• If you're exposing the raw timber top and want to reduce yellow tones, mix one part white paint with three parts water to create a white wash.
• Apply the white wash with a paintbrush and immediately wipe off excess to achieve the desired level of whiteness.

Step 10: Seal the Tables

• Once you're satisfied with the paint and whitewash (if used), it's time to protect your work.
• Apply a clear polycrylic or polyurethane sealer with a sponge applicator or brush. Ensure thin, even coats to avoid bubbles or thick patches. This is only for the timber section not the paint. You need to be careful when applying a sealer over white paint that you don’t cause it to turn yellow.
• Apply three to five coats of the sealer for optimal protection on any timber sections.

I always recommend starting with a small project and practicing the skills and techniques before moving onto larger projects. Side tables are a great first piece to makeover.

If you would like to see this makeover in the form of a video tutorial you can check out the video below 👇

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