How do I paint this huge piece of furniture without sanding?
by
Cbm2820040
+6
It takes up a major part of our hallway, in an already small house, so I can't sand it (everything in our house would be covered in dust!)
I want to paint it a beautiful darkish grey in chalk paint for furniture, but am worried the paint won't adhere properly if it's not sanded. Help!
It's an "antique cream" color, a bit dark in this picture because it's dark outside. Better in the daylight
http://salvagedinspirations.com/5-ways-to-paint-furniture-without-sanding/
If you don't want to sand it clean it well with dish soap and water. Prime it and then paint. Good Luck.
Use "000" steel wool (check a paint or hardware store), to lightly scuff up the surface paint to create scratches for the new paint to adhere too. Wipe the entire unit down with a damp cloth before painting to get rid of residue. The doors and drawer can be taken off for prep work and painting. It will be much easier to paint them laying on a table than attached to the unit. You might be able to remove the glass while working on it too.
Use chalk paint. Then either wax or put a preservative over the paint.
You're right it won't adhere. Try using regular sandpaper (If you were planning to use electric). It creates less dust. Also keep a lightly damp cloth at hand and wipe away dust frequently. The build-up of dust will spread. I live in a condo and this is how I prevent myself from going mad during or after my many projects.
Sanding is really the best prep you can do. Could you hang plastic over the doorway to keep the dust in check? If not, speak to your local paint experts as there are various products available that remove all sheen, dirt, etc. and create a porous surface for the paint to stick to.
There usta be something called " sanding sealer "...supposedly it was something you could use just for a situation such as yours. It would sorta prime the surface so that the final finish would stick. You might check some of your local paint or hobby stores to see if they have some. Otherwise, unfortunately, you really need to scuff the surface a mite to assure good adhesion.
If your piece is real wood and not laminate, you do not have to sand it. Use liquid sandpaper—it comes in different brand names. Apply liberally. I usually do it twice. I have used liquid sandpaper for 30 years and have painted anything and everything-from kitchen cabinets to wall paneling. I use this even when I do chalk paint. It makes the surface a little tacky and helps the primer stick. Use a high quality primer like Zinsser. I use primer even when using chalk paint. I know a lot of people don’t, but when I go to all the trouble of painting a piece, I want my efforts to last so I choose to prime first. I don’t use wax over chalk paint, because I have never been able to get good results with it. Instead, I let the paint dry thoroughly—maybe 24 hrs. or more and then use a clear spray polish on the piece as if I am dusting/polishing it. This has worked well for me and I don’t end up with a sticky wax finish. Best of luck!