To successfully paint over high gloss furniture, you need to create a surface that the new paint can grip onto. This primarily involves sanding the glossy finish.
Sanding for Adhesion
The key to painting over a high-gloss surface is sanding to provide a "key" for the new paint. The shinier the finish, the more thorough your sanding needs to be.
- Purpose: Sanding roughens the smooth, glossy surface, creating tiny scratches that the paint can adhere to.
- Tools: You can use an electric sander for larger, flat surfaces. For intricate details or smaller pieces, hand sanding is preferable.
- Sandpaper: Use medium-grit sandpaper (around 120-180 grit) for the initial sanding, followed by fine-grit sandpaper (around 220 grit) to smooth out the surface.
- Technique: Sand evenly, applying consistent pressure. Avoid sanding too aggressively in one spot, which can damage the furniture.
- Post-Sanding: Thoroughly remove all sanding dust with a tack cloth or damp cloth. A clean surface is crucial for proper paint adhesion.
Priming (Optional, But Recommended)
While sanding is often sufficient, applying a primer can further improve paint adhesion and provide a uniform base coat.
- Benefits of Primer:
- Enhanced Adhesion: Primer creates a strong bond between the sanded surface and the new paint.
- Uniform Finish: Primer helps to even out the surface, concealing imperfections and ensuring a consistent color.
- Blocking Stains: Primer can prevent existing stains from bleeding through the new paint.
- Choosing a Primer: Select a primer specifically designed for furniture or one that is suitable for glossy surfaces. Consider a bonding primer, which is designed to adhere to slick surfaces.
Painting
Once the surface is properly prepared (sanded and/or primed), you can proceed with painting.
- Paint Type: Use a high-quality paint specifically formulated for furniture. Acrylic latex paints are a popular choice due to their durability and ease of use.
- Application: Apply thin, even coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Use a brush, roller, or sprayer, depending on the size and complexity of the furniture.
- Multiple Coats: Two or three coats of paint are typically required for full coverage and a durable finish.
- Top Coat (Optional): For added protection, consider applying a clear top coat or sealant. This will help to protect the paint from scratches and wear.
Summary
Painting over high gloss furniture requires proper preparation. Sanding to create a keyed surface is essential. Consider priming for better adhesion and stain blocking, and then apply multiple thin coats of high-quality furniture paint. With careful preparation and application, you can achieve a beautiful and durable finish.
