How to Refinish Furniture

These posts are "How To's" that were recently removed from a popular site due to discontinuation of their writer compensation program.  I believe my work is worth more than the paltry buyout they offered, so I'm posting them here.  Please feel free to comment!

How to refinish laminate furniture

Summer is peak time for garage sales and great finds.  If you peruse Freecycle or dumpster dive for hidden gems, refinishing can be the perfect way to add your personal touch to a find.  This article is for refinishing a laminated item only.  

Can’t tell if you have a laminated item? The easiest way is to check the weight.  A lot of  newer (post 1970s) furniture is a laminate veneer applied over a lightweight plywood or mdf board.  If your piece is held together by staples or glue, it's probably a laminate veneer.  If you have a solid wood piece, DO NOT use these instructions.

As with any other project, the outcome is only as successful as your tools.  Depending on the size of the piece of furniture, you will need:

·         Phillips or flat head screwdriver,

·         (1) small or medium-sized plastic container (preferably with lid)

·         (1 -2) sheets 100 grit sandpaper,

·         assorted paint brushes (often sold in packs of 1-1/2”, 2”, & 3” sets),

·         (1) 3” roller with at least (1) refill

·         (1) gallon primer (depending on size of project)

·         (1) gallon paint (depending on size of project)

·         Several paint stir sticks

·         Painting tape (optional)

·         Cloth rags or paper towels

·         Cleaning supplies (optional)

·         Paint tray & disposable liner (optional)

Begin your project by thoroughly cleaning your item to remove any dust, dirt, or other soils.  As you are working with a laminate piece, prolonged exposure to water will harm the finish and is not recommended.  If you must clean with water, wipe off immediately with a dry cloth.   Remove all knobs, fasteners, hinges, and other hardware with the appropriate screwdriver.  After removed, insert screws about halfway inside the hardware to prevent misplacement.  Place all removed hardware inside of plastic container for reuse.

Use your 100 grit sandpaper to gently scuff the entire laminate surface.  This will make it easier for the primer to adhere to the piece of furniture.  Use a damp cloth to wipe off any residual dust and let dry.  Note:  If you skip this step, your paint may peel away from the laminate surface.

Open your primer (a flat head screwdriver will pry the top off) & stir thoroughly with a paint stick.  Pour a small amount into your paint tray, creating a shallow pool at the bottom.  Using your 3” roller, dip into paint, rolling the excess off in paint tray.  Apply to scuffed surface in thin, even coats.  Let dry.  Apply another coat and allow to dry again.
Once the primer is completely dry, apply the first coat of finish paint on top.  Allow to dry, then apply a second coat.  Use a third if necessary.
When you piece is finished drying, reattach the hardware you saved in the plastic container.

Enjoy your handiwork!