How to Change Color of Wood Furniture

Are you tired of the same old color on your wood furniture and looking to give it a fresh new look?

How to change color of wood furniture can breathe new life into an old piece, making it look fresh and modern. It’s a cost-effective way to update your decor without replacing large furniture pieces.

Whether you’re aiming for a lighter tone or dreaming of a dark, rich hue, this process involves several key steps, such as sanding, priming, painting/staining, and sealing. The beauty of wood is that it can be transformed into virtually any color, allowing it to fit seamlessly into your existing decor or inspire a completely new design theme.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step, from preparation to the final touch, to ensure your wood furniture’s smooth and successful transformation.

What are the Benefits of Changing the Color of Wood Furniture?

Changing the color of your wood furniture can have numerous benefits, including:

• Adding a Personal Touch: By choosing a new color for your wood furniture, you can make it truly unique and reflect your personality or taste.
• Updating Outdated Pieces: If you have old or antique furniture that doesn’t match your current decor, changing its color can give it a modern and fresh look.
• Saving Money: Changing the color of your existing pieces can be a cost-effective way to update your home’s interior design instead of purchasing new furniture.
• Protecting the Wood: Painting or staining your wood furniture can help protect it from everyday wear and tear, extending its lifespan.
• Creating a Cohesive Look: Changing the color of your wood furniture can help tie together different pieces in a room and create a cohesive design.
• Eco-friendly Option: By repurposing and updating old furniture, you reduce waste and be environmentally friendly.

What Tools Do You Need to Change the Color of Wood Furniture?

Before getting started on changing the color of your wood furniture, it’s essential to gather all the necessary tools. Here are some of the basic items you’ll need:

• Sanding Equipment: Sandpaper or an electric sander will be needed to prepare the surface of your wood furniture.
• Primer: A primer is essential for creating a smooth and even base for painting or staining.
• Paint/Stain: Depending on the color you choose, you’ll need either paint or stain to change the color of your wood furniture.
• Paintbrushes/Rollers: These will be needed to apply primer and paint/stain.
• Sealer/Finish: A sealer or finish is necessary to protect your newly painted or stained furniture. There are various options available, such as polyurethane, wax, or varnish.
• Drop Cloth: To protect your flooring and surrounding area from drips, spills, and splatters, a drop cloth is essential.
• Gloves/Mask: It’s important to protect yourself while working with chemicals and paint/stain. Invest in gloves and a mask for safety.

Once you have all your tools and materials ready, it’s time to start the transformation process.

8 Easy Steps on How to Change Color of Wood Furniture

Step 1: Prepare the Surface

The first step in changing the color of your wood furniture is to prepare the surface by sanding. This will help remove any existing finish, roughen up the surface for better paint/stain adherence, and smooth out imperfections. Use sandpaper with a grit between 120 and 220 or an electric sander for larger pieces of furniture.

Step 2: Clean the Furniture

After sanding, it’s crucial to clean the furniture thoroughly. Any dust, dirt, or greasy spots can prevent the new color from adhering properly, leading to an uneven finish. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the entire surface of the furniture. Consider using a mild detergent or a specialized wood cleaner for tougher spots or residues.

Ensure the furniture is completely dry before moving on to the next step. This ensures that the primer and paint/stain will adhere well and prevent any potential water marks under the new finish.

Step 3: Apply Primer

Once your furniture is sanded and cleaned, the next step is to apply a primer. Primer is essential, especially when changing from dark to light, as it ensures that the new color appears bright and true. Choose a primer appropriate for your chosen paint or stain and for the wood’s surface. Apply it evenly using a brush or roller, covering all areas thoroughly but without applying it too thickly. Allow the primer to dry completely, following the manufacturer’s recommendations on drying time.

Step 4: Apply the First Coat of Paint or Stain

With the fully dry primer, you’re ready to apply the first coat of your chosen paint or stain. If you’re using paint, select a high-quality formula suitable for wood surfaces. For staining, ensure your stain is compatible with your wood type. Using a clean brush or roller, apply the paint or stain in even, long strokes, following the grain of the wood to achieve a smooth finish. Be mindful to avoid applying too much product in one go, as this can lead to drips or uneven layers. After the first coat is applied, allow it to dry completely.

The drying time can vary based on the product used and environmental conditions, so refer to the product’s instructions for specific guidance. This step may need to be repeated for optimal coverage and color depth, especially when making drastic color changes or working with highly absorbent woods.

Step 5: Sand Between Coats

After the first coat of paint or stain is thoroughly dry, it’s advisable to lightly sand the surface before applying the next coat. This step, often overlooked, is crucial for achieving a professional, smooth finish. Use a fine-grit sandpaper, such as 220-grit, to gently buff the surface.

This removes any imperfections or raised fibers in the paint or stain, ensuring a smoother second coat. Be sure to clean off any resulting dust with a tack or slightly damp cloth to ensure a clean surface for the next layer of paint or stain. This process improves the texture and helps the next coat adhere better, resulting in a more durable finish.

Step 6: Apply the Second Coat of Paint or Stain

Now that the surface is sanded and clean, it’s time to apply the second coat of paint or stain. This coat will enhance the color depth and ensure a more even and robust finish. Use the same application technique as the first coat, applying the paint or stain with smooth, long strokes. Pay special attention to any areas that absorbed more of the first coat, as these may require more product to achieve uniform coverage.

Remember to apply the paint or stain sparingly to avoid drips and unevenness. Once applied, allow this coat to dry completely before proceeding to the next step. The drying time will vary based on the type of paint or stain used and the environmental conditions, so consult the product’s instructions for specific drying times. This second coat is critical for achieving your furniture piece’s desired finish and durability.

Step 7: Apply a Final Finish or Sealer

After the second coat of paint or stain has dried completely and you are satisfied with the color and finish, it is important to protect your work with a final finish or sealer. This step ensures that your newly colored wood furniture is safeguarded against scratches, stains, and water damage.

Choose a finish or sealer that is appropriate for the type of paint or stain you have used and for the intended use of the furniture. Finishes are available in various sheens, from matte to glossy, allowing you to choose according to your preference. Apply the finish or sealer evenly with a clean brush or roller, covering every surface thoroughly. As per the manufacturer’s instructions, allow the finish or sealer to dry completely before using the furniture.

Step 8: Reattach or Replace Hardware

Once the final finish or sealer has dried completely and your newly colored wood furniture is ready for use, it’s time to reattach the original hardware or replace it with new pieces. This step can significantly influence the overall appearance of your furniture, transforming a traditional piece into a modern statement or vice versa.

When reattaching the hardware, ensure each piece is securely fastened. If you opt for new hardware, select pieces that complement the furniture’s new color and style. This is also an opportune moment to consider the functionality of the hardware, such as opting for handles that offer a better grip or locks that provide enhanced security. Once all hardware is attached, your furniture transformation is complete, and it’s ready to be reintegrated into your space.

Following these eight steps, you can transform your wooden furniture with a fresh coat of paint or stain. With the right tools, products, and techniques, you can achieve professional-looking results that will breathe new life into any piece of wood furniture.

5 Additional Tips and Tricks

1. Test the Stain First: Before committing to a new color for your whole piece, test the stain or paint on a small, hidden section. This ensures the color matches your expectations of the actual wood you’re working with.
2. Use a Pre-Stain Conditioner: If you’re working with a soft or porous wood, applying a pre-stain wood conditioner can help achieve a more even and consistent color. This step is crucial for woods like pine or birch that tend to absorb stains unevenly.
3. Consider the Finishing Layer: Choosing the right topcoat is essential after staining. Opt for a durable finish like polyurethane for high-traffic items like chairs and tables. For less-used items, a simple wax finish might suffice, enhancing the wood’s natural beauty.
4. Lighten Up: If you’re aiming to significantly lighten the wood, consider using a two-step process of bleach or a wood lightener, followed by sanding. This can help remove the old stain or dark patina before applying a lighter stain.
5. Maintain the Wood’s Character: When changing the color, aim to enhance rather than mask the wood’s natural grain and character. Even when adding a new hue, techniques like dry brushing or using a gel stain can maintain the wood’s unique features and textures.

With these additional tips and tricks, you can take your wood staining skills to the next level.

5 Things You Should Avoid When Changing the Color of Wood Furniture

1. Skipping Surface Preparation: Never begin staining without properly preparing the wood surface. Failing to clean, sand, or strip old finishes can result in a blotchy or uneven appearance. Proper preparation is key to achieving a smooth, professional look.
2. Ignoring Weather Conditions: Applying stain or paint in inappropriate weather conditions can adversely affect drying times and finish quality. Avoid working in extremely high humidity or under direct sunlight, as these conditions can lead to issues like bubbling or peeling.
3. Using Mismatched Products: Not all stains and finishes are compatible. Using a water-based stain with an oil-based finish (or vice versa) without ensuring compatibility can lead to disappointing results. Always check product recommendations before combining different types.
4. Overapplying Stain: Less is often more when it comes to applying wood stain. Overapplying can lead to a sticky surface that doesn’t properly dry, making the furniture unusable. Apply stain in thin, even coats, allowing adequate drying time in between.
5. Neglecting Safety Measures: Working with stains, paints, and finishes involves exposure to chemicals that can be harmful if not handled correctly. Always work in a well-ventilated area and wear appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and respirators, to protect your health.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure a successful and satisfying wood staining project.

How Can You Change the Color of Wood Without Sanding It?

While sanding is typically the most effective way to change the color of wood, it’s not always necessary. Here are a few alternative methods to consider:

• Using a Chemical Stripper: A chemical stripper can effectively remove old finishes without sanding. When using this method, be sure to follow precautions and instructions carefully.
• Bleaching or Lightening Agents: As mentioned above, bleaching or using a wood lightener can help remove old stains and discoloration before applying a new color.
• Using Chalk Paint: Chalk paint is a popular option for changing wood color without sanding. It adheres well to most surfaces and requires minimal surface preparation. Remember that it may not result in as drastic a color change as the traditional stain.
• Applying Gel Stain: Gel stain is thicker than traditional liquid stains, making it easier to apply without sanding. It can also be used to achieve a darker color on top of existing finishes.

It’s important to note that these methods may only work for some types of wood and should always be tested on a small section first.

How Do You Darken Wood Naturally?

Darkening wood naturally is a process that enhances the wood’s inherent beauty without relying on synthetic stains or dyes. Here are several methods to achieve a deeper, richer hue using natural substances:

• Tea Staining: Tea contains tannins, which can darken wood when applied. Brew a strong pot of black tea, allow it to cool, and then apply it to the wood using a brush. For a darker shade, apply several coats, allowing each to dry thoroughly before reapplying.
• Coffee Grounds: Similar to tea, coffee can darken wood. Make a strong batch of coffee and apply it to the wood surface with a cloth or brush—the natural oils and tannins in coffee help to give the wood a darker, warmer tone.
• Vinegar and Steel Wool: A mixture of vinegar and steel wool creates a reactive solution that can significantly darken the wood. Place steel wool in a jar of white vinegar and let it dissolve for a few days. Apply the solution to the wood, which will gradually darken over a few hours or days, depending on the wood type.
• Walnut Hulls: Crushing walnut hulls and boiling them in water creates a dark liquid that can be applied to wood for a rich, deep color. Strain the mixture and apply it to the wood surface; this method works especially well for woods that are naturally light in color.
• Ammonia Fuming: This traditional method darkens oak and other tannin-rich woods. It involves exposing the wood to ammonia fumes in a sealed container or chamber, which causes a chemical reaction that darkens the wood. This method should be used with caution and proper safety precautions due to the toxic nature of ammonia.

It’s essential to test these natural methods on a small, inconspicuous area of your wood first to ensure it achieves the desired result. Each type of wood reacts differently, so results can vary.

Conclusion

How to change color of wood furniture can profoundly impact the aesthetics of any piece, breathing new life into old or outdated items and making them complement your current décor.

By understanding the key steps and considerations—such as surface preparation, considering the weather, selecting compatible products, applying coatings correctly, and adhering to safety protocols—you can achieve professional-looking results that highlight the natural beauty of the wood while achieving your desired color.

Whether opting for traditional sanding methods, exploring alternatives like chemical strippers or gel stains, or choosing natural darkening techniques, it’s crucial to tailor your approach to the specific type of wood and finish you’re working with. Experimentation and patience are key, as is a respectful approach to the material’s inherent qualities.

With these insights and a careful, thoughtful application process, anyone can transform their wood furniture into pieces that truly reflect their personal style and enhance the overall ambiance of their home.