How to Paint a Dresser

Remember this dresser from my Every Home Needs a Story post [the one that put the "ug" in ugly]? Today I’m going to share with you how I transformed it!

Here’s what I did:
First, prepare the dresser. Remove all hardware, and if you are lucky enough to find a dresser with stickers all over it like mine [sarcasm] then apply Goo Gone to them and use a straight-edged razor blade to scrape them off. Then wash everything off with mild soap and water to get rid of any residue.
Now, sand the surface lightly. This dresser didn’t have a glossy surface, so it didn’t take much work.

Finally, it’s time to paint! [sort of] I used a sandable spray paint primer. I like to use this primer whenever I’m painting with latex paint because it’s fast and easy [music to any DIY-er’s ears!]. Once it dried, I sanded it again [very lightly] and then wiped it all down with a cloth.

Next, I used Behr’s Paint & Primer in One, and it's for exteriors [No, this dresser won’t be sitting outside… I live in the country, but I’m not hillbilly… yet]. I like to use exterior grade paint for interior projects because it’s more durable. I applied three very thin coats. [Tip for a smooth finish, watch your brush strokes while painting… you want them to be straight, smooth and even.]
Alright, now turn your attention to the hardware.
Mine was beautiful, but funky [50 years of “yuck”]. I soaked & scrubbed them with a toothbrush [no, not my super hero hubby’s… my son’s. Just kidding!!]. Then, I busted out the love of my [DIY] life. Rub ‘n Buff [silver for this project]. I just love, love, love this stuff. If you have never used it, go and get some right now. I promise you’ll be rubbing and buffing all around your home in no time! The handles were originally black, and I wanted some of that to still show, so I rubbed it on sparingly and unevenly.
I then did the same thing for the dresser’s metal legs.
Finally, I wanted the dresser’s top to be silver as well…

so time for more Rub ‘n Buff! I particularly like using it on wood, because it gives it a buffed look [thus the name] and isn’t at all shiny or fake. It is a little harder to use on large surfaces. I really had to buff it out with a cloth for a nice, even finish.
Once drawers are dry, put the hardware back on and you’re done!! That's how I turned a dresser that was so ugly [I was embarrassed to even walk-up and tear off the ticket @ Goodwill] into a show-piece and inspiration for my [future] office.

Just linked it up!