The 14 best furniture paint brands

Furniture Paint Buying Guide

Painting furniture can be a great way to update an old piece, breathe new life into a tired space or add a pop of color to your decor. However, buying furniture paint can be a daunting task, with so many different types of paint available on the market. This furniture paint buying guide will help you navigate the various options and choose the right paint for your project.

Types of Furniture Paint

The type of furniture paint you choose will depend on the look you want to achieve, the surface you are painting and how durable you need the paint to be. Here are the common types of furniture paint:

Chalk Paint

Chalk paint has become increasingly popular in recent years and is known for its matte, chalky finish. It adheres well to a range of surfaces, including wood, metal, and plastic, without the need for sanding or priming. It is perfect for creating a shabby-chic or distressed look, but it is not as durable as other paint types, so you may need to apply a protective topcoat.

Milk Paint

Milk paint is an eco-friendly option made from natural ingredients such as milk protein, lime, and pigment. It has a matte finish but is more durable than chalk paint. It can be used on wood, metal, and plaster, and it is perfect for creating a vintage or antique look, but it can be tricky to use as it requires some skill and knowledge to achieve the desired effect.

Oil-Based Paint

Oil-based paint is a popular choice for furniture as it is easy to apply, dries hard, and is very durable. It is suitable for a range of surfaces, including wood, metal, and plastic, and comes in a range of finishes from glossy to matte. However, it has a strong odor and requires solvents for clean-up, which can make it less appealing for some users.

Latex Paint

Latex paint is water-based and dries quickly, making it a popular choice for furniture projects. It is easy to apply, has minimal odor, and is easy to clean up with soap and water. It is best used on wood and porous surfaces, but it can be difficult to get a smooth finish on non-porous surfaces. It is not as durable as oil-based paint, but it can be a great option for furniture that does not get a lot of wear and tear.

Spray Paint

Spray paint is quick and easy to use, making it popular for furniture projects. It comes in a range of colors, finishes and specialty options such as metallic or glitter. However, it can be difficult to control and requires careful preparation to prevent overspray. It is best suited to small or intricate pieces, or for adding a pop of color to accents or artwork.

Finish Types

After you have chosen your type of paint, you will need to decide on the finish. Here are the common finishes for furniture paint:

Matte

Matte finish is popular for its smooth, non-reflective appearance. It absorbs light, making it ideal for painting walls and furniture that needs a subtle, natural appearance. It can be used on both new and old furniture, and it is easy to clean while hiding imperfections on the surface.

Satin

Satin finish is the most popular choice for furniture painting. It has a pearlescent appearance that reflects light while remaining smooth to touch. It is more durable than matte finish and is resistant to scratches and stains. Satin finish is ideal for painting furniture that needs a low-lustre finish with minimal glare or reflection.

Semi-gloss

Semi-gloss finish has a reflective appearance and is ideal for painting furniture that needs a shining and reflective finish. It reflects light and is more durable than matte and satin finishes, making it ideal for painting crown molding, door frames, and cabinets. Semi-gloss finish is easy to clean and requires minimal maintenance.

Gloss

Gloss finish is the shiniest and most reflective of all the finishes. It is the most durable of all the finishes and stands up to wear and tear better than other finishes. Gloss finish is ideal for painting furniture that needs to survive extreme wear and tear, such as cabinets, countertops, or tables. It creates a durable and lasting shine that resists scratches and stains.

Color

The color of the furniture paint you choose is probably the most important aspect of the project. It can completely transform the look, mood, and appearance of a room. Choose a color that goes well with the rest of your decor, and that will make the furniture piece stand out in a complementary way. Make sure to test the color on a small area of the furniture before painting a larger area.

Preparation

Preparation is key to achieving a professional-looking finish. Here are the essential preparation steps:

Clean the Surface

The surface you will be painting must be clean and dry. Remove any dirt, grease, or dust with soap, water, and a clean, dry cloth. Use a mild detergent and a scrubbing pad for tough stains. Sand any rough spots or bumps using sandpaper, and use a damp cloth to wipe down the surface to remove any dust and debris.

Repair Any Damage

If the piece of furniture has any major damage, such as cracks or holes, repair it before painting. Use wood filler or putty to fill any holes, and sand them smooth. Patch any cracks with wood glue, and sand them smooth.

Prime the Surface

Using a primer ensures that the paint will adhere properly to the surface and will cover any previous paint colors. Use a primer that is compatible with the type of paint you will be using, and apply it in a thin, even coat. Let the primer dry completely before painting.

Application

Once you have selected your furniture paint, finish, color, and prepared the surface, it's time for the fun part – painting your furniture! Here are some tips for achieving a professional-looking finish:

Use Good Quality Brushes

Use good quality brushes for a smooth, even application. Foam brushes can be okay for small projects but are not recommended for larger projects as they tend to leave bubbles. Natural bristle brushes work well with oil-based and chalk paint, while synthetic brushes are ideal for latex and water-based paints.

Thin Coats are Better than Thick Coats

Apply thin coats of paint rather than thick coats. Thick coats can result in drips, bubbles, and an uneven finish. Allow each coat of paint to dry completely before applying the next coat. Most furniture paint requires two to three coats for complete coverage.

Sand Between Coats

Sanding between coats is essential for achieving a smooth and even finish. Use a fine-grit sandpaper to sand lightly between coats, and wipe away any dust or debris before applying the next coat.

Finishing

After the final coat of paint has dried, you may choose to apply a protective coat or a wax coating to give it a professional-looking finish. This will help to protect the surface and make it more resistant to scratches, dings, and other types of wear and tear.

Conclusion

Choosing the right furniture paint can be overwhelming, but following this furniture paint buying guide will help you understand the different types of paint, finishes, colors, and application methods. Remember, preparation is key to achieving a professional-looking finish and don't be afraid to test the color on a small area before committing to a larger project.