Beginner friendly!
Upcycling furniture has always appealed to me. I’m trying to incorporate as many quality-made pieces into my home as possible—partly for aesthetic reasons, but mostly because… let’s be honest: furniture is expensive. I want pieces that will last, feel good to use, and suit the style of my Edwardian cottage.
Before I actually took the plunge, I’d watched countless tutorials online. But once I finally gave it a go myself, I was surprised by how straightforward, and actually quite fun, the process was. I think you should try it too! Here’s what I did:
Step 1: Find Your Piece
I found a beautiful chest of drawers by Stag on Facebook Marketplace, my go-to for affordable, well-made furniture. I knew I wanted to paint this piece, so I looked for one that had good structure but where I didn’t mind covering up the finish.
Tip: Label each drawer and fixing as you remove them. They always fit best when they go back in the same way.
Step 2: Prep (aka Sand, Sand, Sand!)
Remove all hardware and give the piece a good sand. I chose to do this by hand rather than using a power sander because I wanted more control and less risk of overdoing it on the corners and edges.
My goal wasn’t to strip it back completely, but to rough up the surface enough for the fresh paint to grip. After sanding, I hoovered the whole thing thoroughly (don’t forget the soft attachment for your vacuum!) and wiped down any residual dust.
I did my sanding outdoors, but if you’re inside: use a good sanding mask, keep pets and children away, and open your windows.
Step 3: Time to Paint
I used Fusion Mineral Paint in Cathedral Taupe, and I highly recommend this brand – especially for beginners. It’s:
- Easy to apply
- Smooth and pigmented
- Doesn’t chip
- Doesn’t require primer
You just need a decent paintbrush for wood (though any brush will do in a pinch). I did two coats, gently sanding between them to catch any imperfections. The drying time is quick, so I finished the whole piece in a single day.
To seal it, I used the clear topcoat by the same brand. Super easy and gives a lovely smooth finish.
Step 4: Reassemble and Style
The best part: putting everything back together and styling it in its new spot. I placed this in my bedroom for easy access to pyjamas, basics, and layers I use most mornings and evenings.
My quality control inspectors checked out my work – and I’m pleased to say, they approved!
