Transforming a TV Unit: Let’s Create A Grey & Whitewashed Timber TV Unit

Refinishing furniture can be a satisfying and creative process. In this article, we'll take you through the steps of how I transformed a TV unit into a beautiful piece of furniture.

Tools and Supplies You'll Need For This Project:

• 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)
• Paint Brush - https://amzn.to/3HHDXcE (Amazon)
• Hand Sand Paper - https://amzn.to/48gP3Rt (Amazon)
• Grey Paint - Sacred Sage by Fusion - Discontinued
• Primer Grey Pureco Primer - https://lebellemaison.com/ 
• Whitewash can be done with any white paint
• Top Coat - Pureco Topcoat available from https://lebellemaison.com/

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Let's dive into the process!

Checking The Construction

First things first, let's assess the piece we're working with. It's crucial to identify the material you're dealing with. In this case, we have a solid timber TV unit with timber drawers.

Step 1: Clear the Cobwebs

Before starting any project, it's essential to give your piece a good clean. In my case, this TV unit had collected its fair share of spiderwebs, so a thorough sweep was the first order of business.

Step 2: Degrease and Clean

Next, use a degreaser to clean the piece thoroughly. Dissolve degreaser crystals in water, put on some rubber gloves, grab a sponge, and start wiping away the accumulated dust and grime. Cleaning is a critical step to ensure the paint adheres properly.

Step 3: Remove Existing Hardware

If your furniture piece has existing hardware, such as drawer pulls or knobs, you'll want to remove them. This can typically be done with a drill or a screwdriver by unscrewing the screws at the back. Remove the hardware carefully in case you want to reuse the existing hardware.

Step 4: Safety First

Before getting into the refinishing process, put on your safety gear. Safety glasses, earmuffs, and a mask are essential when working with paint, sanding, or any potentially hazardous materials.

Step 5: Stripping the Top

In this project, I wanted to keep the top surface as raw timber to showcase its beautiful grain. To achieve this, I used a belt sander to strip away the top layer of the old finish. The belt sander is an efficient tool for this task, but be cautious not to overdo it, as it can leave marks on the timber.

Step 6: Clean Up with an Orbital Sander

After using the belt sander, switch to an orbital sander to remove any remaining stain and achieve a smooth surface. This step is crucial to prepare the timber for painting or staining.

Step 7: Scuff Sand the Entire Piece

Scuff sanding is the next step to ensure the paint adheres well. This involves gently sanding the entire piece to create a slightly rough surface that promotes paint adhesion.

Step 8: Mask Up the Timber Sections

If you want to keep certain sections of your furniture piece unpainted, use masking tape to protect those areas. Apply the tape along the edges and use a razor blade to get clean, straight lines.

Step 9: Apply Primer

Using a grey primer is recommended for better coverage. Apply the primer with a paintbrush on the edges and use a roller for the larger surfaces.

Step 10: Paint the Piece

Choose your desired paint colour and apply it to the furniture piece. Painting the edges with a brush and using a roller for the larger areas usually yields excellent results. Apply a second coat if necessary for full coverage.

Step 11: Stencil the Drawer Sides (Optional)

To add a unique touch, consider stencilling. In this project, the side of the drawers received a stencil design. Use a paintbrush to carefully apply paint through the stencil, ensuring not to overload with paint to prevent bleed-through.

Step 12: Clean Up and Remove Masking Tape

Once the painting is complete, remove the masking tape carefully. If you encounter any bleed-through, use sandpaper to clean up the edges for a crisp finish.

Step 13: Apply Wood Butter to Drawers

For a fresh look, especially on exposed timber surfaces like drawer fronts, apply wood butter. This helps rejuvenate the timber and enhances its appearance.

Step 14: Whitewash Timber

If you want to lighten the timber's appearance, create a whitewash by mixing white paint with water (usually around a 50-50 ratio). Apply the whitewash along the grain and wipe away any excess with a cloth.

Step 15: Apply Top Coat

Once everything is dry, apply a top coat to protect your work. In this case, a polycrylic top coat was used. Ensure the piece is fully dry before applying the top coat or you can end up making it smudgy.

Step 16: Apply New Hardware

If needed, replace or add new hardware. Attach handles or knobs according to your design preference. If you don’t want to add new hardware just reapply the original hardware. I added new Hamptons inspired handles.

Step 17: Stage Your Piece

If you are going to be selling the piece to showcase your work and make it more appealing to potential buyers, stage your furniture piece with care. Proper staging can help highlight its full potential. If it’s for your own home staging it will also help make you home pop.

With these steps, you can transform a piece of furniture into a unique and beautiful addition to your home or an attractive item for sale. Remember to take your time and enjoy the creative process of furniture refinishing.

If you want to learn how to refinish you own furniture you need to check out our Online Course - Refinishing For Joy. It takes you through step by step videos teaching you everything you need to know to create statement furniture for you home. Learn more here

 Watch the full tutorial below 👇