Paint jobs can be an effective way to give an old nightstand or dresser new life and add fresh new style to any bedroom, but one of the primary obstacles for beginner furniture painters can be sanding. Here are a few hacks that will speed up this step and get you closer to painting quicker!
Jon Christensen of home renovation website Bidmii suggests using a bonding primer instead. A high quality bonding primer will create a surface that adheres to laminate furniture despite watermarks on its wood, such as Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Primer from Amazon or Kilz Adhesion High-Bonding Primer from Kilz Adhesion High-Bonding Primer from Kilz. If sandpapering becomes necessary, use 150-220 grit paper only long enough to scratch up its surface like you would when working with kitchen counters; wipe down with a tack cloth after to remove any dust before applying your product of choice.
An effective alternative to sanding is using deglosser or liquid sandpaper before painting furniture, which chemically breaks down sheen so the new paint sticks to it more securely. This method works great on laminate, latex paints and oil-based paints - just be sure to test the current finish first to see which kind it is and then follow any applicable deglosser directions regarding its application.
Another solution is using furniture paint that's self-priming, ideal for laminate, latex and oil-based painted surfaces such as laminate. This type of paint is easy to use and very cost-effective; there are even specific wood furniture paint varieties. Though long-lasting, you will likely have to reapply it periodically in order to keep its looks.