Start Your Refinishing Journey Today
Ready to Transform Your Furniture?
Discover step-by-step tutorials, expert tips, and creative inspiration to breathe new life into your cherished pieces. Whether it’s your first project or your tenth, we’re here to help you create something beautiful and timeless.
Preparing Your Furniture
Whether you’re flipping a vintage dresser or refreshing a tired end table, prep is everything. A gorgeous, lasting finish starts before the paint ever touches the piece. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Don’t Skip Primer (Unless You Know Why)
For pieces with heavy tannins (like mahogany or oak), or if you’re going light over dark, a stain-blocking primer will save you heartache later. I share my go-to primers in this Instagram tutorial.
Clean Thoroughly
Remove years of grime and oils using a degreaser or warm soapy water. Don’t forget the hardware and crevices!
Make Necessary Repairs
Fill scratches, dents, and old hardware holes with wood filler. For loose joints or damaged corners, wood glue and clamps work wonders.
Sand Smart, Not Hard
Sanding helps your primer and paint stick—and it can also smooth out imperfections. Depending on the finish, a quick scuff sand with 120–180 grit is often enough. Always wipe clean afterward.
Choosing the Right Finish: Paints, Stains & Everything In Between
Every piece tells a different story—and your finish is what brings that vision to life. Here’s how I approach picking the right one:
- Chalk Paint vs. Mineral Paint vs. Acrylic
Want a soft, vintage feel with minimal prep? Chalk paint might be your best friend. Prefer durability and a smoother modern finish? Look into mineral or acrylic furniture paints. I have learned over the years that the paint and products really do matter for a lasting a beautiful finish. My go-to favorite paint I use now, is the Gallery Series paint by Sherwin Williams! - Stains & Paint Washes
Wood tones can bring warmth and character to a piece. I often blend gel stains with natural finishes or create custom paint washes to show wood grain while still giving color depth. - Topcoats Matter
For high-use items like dressers or desks, a tough polycrylic or polyurethane topcoat will protect all your hard work. Matte or satin finishes give a more modern, soft look. I also love using a matte finish on my paint wash finishes for durability but no change to the tone and color.
Need help choosing products? I have linked all the supplies in my ShopMy lists.
Step-by-Step Refinishing Tutorials
Ready to dive in? I’ve put together real-time tutorials showing exactly how I flip pieces—from start to finish. You’ll find tips, product links, and behind-the-scenes commentary in each one.
▶️ Watch on Instagram Reels – Bite-sized, real-life flips
🔗 Follow on Facebook – Longer walkthroughs, photo tutorials, and before/afters
📌 Save to Pinterest – Step-by-step guides and project inspiration
🎥 Subscribe on YouTube – Full transformations with voiceovers and product breakdowns
Browse my full library of tutorials here, or choose a category:
Start Your Refinishing Journey Today
Ready to Transform Your Furniture?
Discover step-by-step tutorials, expert tips, and creative inspiration to breathe new life into your cherished pieces. Whether it’s your first project or your tenth, we’re here to help you create something beautiful and timeless.