2. Paint the Top
An old desk can be transformed with a fresh coat of paint. I used Fusion Mineral Paint’s dark green Pressed Fern hue to give this thrifted desk an entirely new appearance, adding drama while providing an easy care finish that’s smooth, durable, and straightforward for cleanup.
Before beginning painting, apply a coat of primer to all surfaces and allow it to fully dry before moving forward with painting. A high adhesion water-based primer like Cover Stain would work well on melamine surfaces; alternatively you could try Bullseye 123 or PS1 available at local hardware stores.
Foam rollers designed specifically for trim can quickly cover larger areas with an even finish, while brushes should be used for any small details or intricate details, like this desk’s spindle trim. Long and even brush strokes should be used; if full coverage doesn’t happen the first time around, add another coat to fill any holes that remain.
Protecting your hard work requires adding a protective wax layer over the newly painted desk surface. Clear or colored waxes can enhance the appearance of your finish while drawing attention to any intriguing details. Use a lint-free cloth or wax brush to work the wax into the furniture until it feels smooth, then let it cure for 24 hours before using your painted desk.
3. Paint the Bottom
Before beginning painting, remove all drawers from the desk and vacuum to clear away dust, dirt, and debris. Apply a degreaser or all-purpose cleaner over its entirety and rinse off using a damp cloth before waiting 24 hours to begin painting.
Once your desk has dried for 24 hours, apply a thin coat of chalky finish paint all over it using long and even brush strokes. Cover all surfaces – including legs and back of desk. It doesn’t have to be opaque, just complete coverage without bare spots.
Wait until the second coat has dried before using sandpaper to smooth out the surface, repeating this step as necessary until you achieve an even finish. Dark or clear wax can add extra details while protecting the paint job – simply wipe away with a clean cloth when finished! It is amazing how just one coat of paint can transform an old desk!
4. Paint the Drawers
Paint the drawers and sides of the dresser a contrasting or matching hue, depending on its top surface color. Allow time between coats of paint application. After all the layers have dried completely, seal off all bare wood or stains using polyurethane or wax sealant with a brush for even coverage and no smudges before reusing or reselling the piece.
5. Paint the Hardware
Finish off the desk by applying clear or colored wax with a clean lint-free cloth – this protects paint, simplifies cleaning, and emphasizes details.
Apply your wax in small areas at a time to avoid drips and blotches, leaving an even and uniform coating for maximum glossiness and newness. A light coating should suffice. Keeping this practice up will keep your desk looking shiny and new for as long as possible!
Painting furniture pieces is an amazing way to personalize and personalize a workspace you will enjoy using. Take time to prep, select paint that complements the piece, apply thin coats over multiple sessions and sand and clean in between applications for best results – and enjoy DIYing!
