Welcome back to The Art of Furniture Finishing! In Part 5, we explored the intricacies of staining furniture and the differences between stains and wood dyes. Today, we’re diving into paint—because sometimes, painting is the perfect choice to breathe new life into your furniture.
With years of experience and countless projects under my belt, I’ve tested nearly every paint on the market. Below are my top recommendations, why I love them, and what you need to know to get started.
Types of Paints for Furniture
Not all paints are created equal, and furniture painting requires specialized formulas. Here are the main types to consider:
1. Chalk Paint – Offers a matte, vintage finish and is easy to distress for a farmhouse look but often requires a topcoat for durability.
2. Acrylic Paint – Water-based and flexible, this dries quickly and provides a smooth finish.
3. Urethane-Based Paints – Designed for durability and resistance to chips, making them ideal for high-use pieces.
4. Specialty Paints – Advanced formulas like Wise Owl OHE combine ease of application with professional-quality durability.
My Favorite Paints
1. Fusion Mineral Paint
Fusion Mineral Paint is a go-to for beginners and seasoned refinishers alike. It’s a self-leveling, water-based acrylic paint that’s easy to apply with a brush or roller. Its durable, matte finish eliminates the need for a topcoat in most cases.
What sets Fusion apart is its versatility—it’s perfect for everything from small decor projects to large furniture makeovers. Even if you’re just starting, this paint delivers professional-quality results.
Save 10% on Fusion Paint!
Use my discount code vintagefurniturefindsfmp when shopping directly from Fusion here.
Pair it with my favorite brushes and rollers linked here for a flawless application.
2. Sherwin Williams Emerald Urethane Trim Paint
This paint is a superstar for furniture refinishing. It’s urethane-based, combining the durability of oil-based paint with the easy cleanup of water-based formulas.
Emerald Urethane Trim Paint is incredibly smooth and forgiving, making it perfect for beginners. It resists chips and wear, which is why I recommend it for high-use furniture like tables and dressers. Whether brushed or rolled, the results are consistently professional.
3. Wise Owl OHE Paint
Wise Owl One Hour Enamel (OHE) is another favorite, known for its unmatched performance and finish. It’s a water-based enamel paint that doesn’t require a topcoat, saving you time and effort.
• Why I Love It:
• Durability: OHE dries to a furniture-grade finish that’s incredibly hard and durable—ideal for pieces that see heavy use.
• Best Application: While it can be brushed or rolled, it truly shines when sprayed, creating a flawless, professional look.
You can find Wise Owl OHE in my online store here.
Why Standard Latex Wall Paint Won’t Work
Using leftover wall paint on furniture may seem convenient, but it’s a mistake. Here’s why:
1. Durability: Latex wall paint is not designed to handle the wear and tear that furniture endures. It’s prone to chipping and scratching.
2. Adhesion: Furniture surfaces often require specialized formulas for proper adhesion—wall paint simply doesn’t stick well to wood, laminate, or veneer.
3. Finish Quality: Wall paint tends to leave visible brush marks and an uneven finish, creating a less-than-professional look.
Investing in furniture-grade paint ensures your hard work results in a durable, long-lasting finish.
Final Thoughts
Painting furniture can transform even the most outdated piece into a stunning work of art. Whether you’re just starting or are an experienced refinisher, using the right paint is essential.
Fusion Mineral Paint and Sherwin Williams Emerald Urethane Trim Paint are excellent options for beginners. For those seeking a professional-grade finish, Wise Owl OHE is unbeatable.
Take advantage of my discount code vintagefurniturefindsfmp to save 10% on Fusion Mineral Paint here, and explore Wise Owl OHE options in my online store.
Happy painting! Let me know in the comments which paint is your favorite or share your latest furniture project—I’d love to hear about it!
