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Sideboard upcycled with three coats of fresh paint.
The project
I changed this sideboard with drawers from gloss varnished wood to low sheen. For this project I used Taubmans 10L Accent Low Sheen All Weather Exterior Paint and some medium grit sandpaper I had around.
Rather than rollers, I used a good quality wide paintbrush with fine bristles similar to this one: Monarch 75mm woodcare paint-brush. It's designed for varnish, but with paint it leaves a smooth finish with a slight suggestion of wood grain.
Steps
Step 1
Take a before picture (I usually forget this - this picture is actually after I did the sanding).
Step 2
Find a good podcast to binge while you work.
Step 3
Lightly hand sand with medium grit sand paper. Use earmuffs if you are using a sander; the podcast earphones still work under them. They are much cheaper than a hearing aid later.
Step 4
Use masking tape for the edges. Remove the handles and replace them with new ones if you like. The handles on this sideboard were good, although I’ve removed and replaced handles on previous projects. In fact, I didn’t even remove the handles on this one. I was keen to just start the project, so I just used kitchen towel or baby wipes, and cleaned any paint splodges as I went.
Step 5
Apply three light coats of paint, with drying time in between. Remember that it takes about a week for the paint to completely harden, so have patience and don’t rush to use it.
How to upcycle a bedside cabinet
Resident Bunnings D.I.Y. expert MitchellMc has shared his step-by-step How to upcycle a bedside cabinet, with a helpful list of tools and materials you will need for your project.
More inspiration for your furniture makeover
Community member vintagemagnolia revamped some 1980s bedroom furniture with a modern makeover of colonial bedside tables.
Fresh paint and new handles worked wonders on this creative upcycled buffet project by Workshop member craftyhopper.
For more great tips, check out Upcycled bedside drawers and tables, Upcycled buffets and the Top 10 most popular indoor furniture projects.
