If your decor feels a little tired or uninspired, there’s no need to replace everything. A fresh coat of paint on furniture can completely transform your space without breaking the bank.

Whether you’re sprucing up old pieces or adding personality to plain ones, painting furniture is a creative and budget-friendly way to revitalise your home.

Recently, I decided to take on a small furniture painting project. I used Rust-Oleum Chalked Ultra Matte Paint in “Salted Caramel” to breathe new life into some white IKEA shelves and a bedroom mirror. The result? A warm, inviting transformation that added a touch of elegance and charm to my space.

Here’s how you can do the same!

Why Paint Furniture?

Customisation:

Painting allows you to choose colours that perfectly complement your existing decor. Whether you’re wanting a subtle and seamless look or instead want a striking colour to create a stand-out piece.

Budget friendly:

Instead of buying new furniture, you can upgrade what you already own. Give it new life and make it feel like brand new with just a splash of paint.

Eco-Friendly:

Repurposing furniture reduces waste and gives old pieces a second life. This expands your furnitures lifespan and reduces the need to dispose of perfectly functional pieces.

Creative Outlet:

It’s a fun, satisfying way to express your style and creativity. You can really make your home full of one of a kind items, giving a more homely and expensive feel.

Choosing the Right Paint

For this project, I used Rust-Oleum Chalked Ultra Matte Paint.

Chalk paint is an excellent choice for furniture because it requires minimal prep work, it dries quickly and adheres well to most surfaces, and the matte finish adds a touch of sophistication.

The shade “Salted Caramel” is a beautiful, earthy tone that works well in various settings, from boho to farmhouse to modern spaces.

Steps to Paint Furniture

Prepare the Surface:

Start by cleaning the furniture. Use a damp cloth and mild soap to remove dust and grime.

Sand if necessary. Although chalk paint often skips this step, lightly sanding glossy surfaces ensures better adhesion.

Protect Your Space:

Lay down a drop cloth to protect your floors. Similarly old newspaper can catch any splashes and keep your surfaces clean.

Tape off areas you don’t want to paint, like hardware or mirrors.

Apply the Paint:

Stir the paint thoroughly to ensure even colour and substance.

Use a quality brush or foam roller for an even application.

Apply thin, even coats, letting each layer dry completely before adding another. This paint is touch dry after an hour and ready for the second coat after two.

My First Project: IKEA Shelves

The white IKEA shelves were functional but uninspired. After painting them in “Salted Caramel,” they became warm focal points in the room. The white bedroom mirror, once plain, now boasts a vintage feel with its soft caramel hue. Together, these refreshed pieces tied the space together beautifully.

Tips for a Flawless Finish

Test First. Always test the paint on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure you love the colour and finish. Next, be patient with it. Thin coats prevent drips and create a smooth surface.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with techniques. Distress edges with sandpaper for a rustic look or layer colours for depth.

Final Thoughts

Painting furniture is a simple yet powerful way to refresh your decor and make your space truly your own. With a bit of paint, patience, and creativity, you can transform even the most mundane pieces into standout features.

If you’re considering a similar project, I highly recommend trying the “Salted Caramel” colour for a cosy, timeless vibe. Whether it’s IKEA basics or vintage treasures, this hue is versatile enough to complement any style.

Ready to pick up a brush and start your own transformation? Let me know in the comments what piece of furniture you’re planning to paint next!