How do you paint unfinished wood furniture?

To paint unfinished wood furniture, gather together a sanding block, soap, water, sponge, primer, paint and finish. To customize the furniture, consider using different types of paint, stains and waxes.

1. Sand down the furniture

   To smooth out the roughness often found on unfinished wood, begin sanding with a rough 100-grit sandpaper. As the roughest areas are smoothed out, switch to a medium 150-grit sandpaper to address scratches, nicks and gouges on the wood. To finish sanding the finer details, employ a 220-grit sandpaper.

2. Clean off loose dirt

   Using soap and water and a non-abrasive sponge, remove any loose materials interfering with the smoothness of the surface. Remove all the dust left over from the sanding. Let the wood dry.

3. Brush on primer

   Using a primer color near to the main paint color, use a soft bristled brush to gently coat the entire surface with primer. Brush in the same direction as the wood grain. Avoid any pooling or dripping.

4. Apply paint coats

   After the primer is dry, use a paint brush to apply the first coat of paint. Cover the brush with as little paint as possible to avoid pooling, dripping and leaving brush strokes. After the first coat is dry, add a second coat in the same manner.

5. Finish the wood

   If desired, cover the dried final coat with a finish or polish to protect the wood from dirt and to minimize damage.