One popular way to intentionally age and distress furniture is to use sandpaper. The goal is to create a weathered look that appears that the piece has been subject to years of use and exposure to the elements.
- The first step is to select the type of sandpaper you will need. Coarse sandpaper will remove paint and stain more quickly, while finer sandpapers are better for creating a smooth, even finish.
- Next, decide on the level of distress you want to achieve. For lighter distressing, sand in small sections using light pressure. For heavier distressing, sand larger areas using more pressure.
- Once you have achieved the desired level of distress, finish the furniture by applying a clear sealant or a new coat of paint or stain. With a little elbow grease, you can easily create a unique, one-of-a-kind piece of furniture that will add character and charm to any space.
Gaining a “distressed” look can be achieved through multiple methods, but the sandpaper method is an easy way to boost your DIY confidence while still adding chic character.
Distressing using sandpaper shortly
- Start with simple prep work before painting. This will help create a smooth and even finish.
- Paint the piece of furniture in two or three coats of your desired color, letting each coat dry for 24 hours before moving on to the next.
- Gently sand the surface with fine sandpaper between each coat of paint, being careful not to remove any paint completely.
- Distress the edges, corners, and beveled areas by rubbing them gently with sandpaper.
- Use a wire brush or other items to create an aged, rustic look.
- Be careful not to sand too much, as this will remove the paint completely and leave you with bare wood.
- Finally, seal the piece with a coat of clear polyurethane for added protection.
Tips for distressing with sandpaper
- Distress your paint job between each coat of paint for a unique, weathered look.
- Start with a rougher sandpaper and work your way down to a finer one.
- Use higher grit sandpaper (220) for a softer distress
- Use lower grit sandpaper (120-180) for a stronger distress
- Apply additional coats of paint ‘lighter’ in areas you want the worn distressed look
- Sand with a light hand to not remove the original finish of the wood furniture
- Use a water mister to help thin out the paint where distressed
1. Start with simple prep
Before beginning any painting project, it is always important to take the time for some simple preparation. This extra step may add a bit of time to the overall project, but it will result in a much better finish that will last for years to come.
When preparing wood for painting, be sure to fill in any obvious cracks or holes with ready-made filler and sand the surface smoothly. It is also important to clean the surface with a grime remover before starting to paint, as this will remove any dirt, grease, or grime that could interfere with the paint’s ability to adhere properly.
By taking the time to properly prepare the surface before painting, you can ensure a beautiful and long-lasting finish.
I have trouble filling the holes that you can see from screws on “flat-packed” furniture. Someone recently gave me a tip to make the head of the screw go down a few millimeters below the surface, and then add filler. Be careful when using a lot of force to make the head of the screw go down, because sometimes this can break MDF. You might need to drill a small hole first.
2. Use the primer and 2-coats of paint
By using a high-quality bonding primer, you will create a finish that is both smooth and even. Plus, your paint job will last for much longer. Keep in mind that it takes quite a bit of time and effort to paint furniture properly, so be sure to take the extra step of priming it first. Be patient and let the primer dry for at least 24 hours before continuing.
After that, put on at least two layers of paint in any color you want. I always go for a matte finish. Make sure each coat has dried for 24 hours before moving on to the next step.
A good tip to avoid making mistakes is to sand lightly between each coat of paint with fine sandpaper (220 grade). This will help the paint look smooth and even. Allow each coat of paint to dry for 24 hours before sanding. After sanding, clean well using a microfiber cloth.
After your last layer of paint dries, leave the piece to dry thoroughly for as long as possible (2-3 days). For some pieces of furniture, I leave it a week, but this may have more to do with my busy lifestyle than anything else.
3. Use sandpaper to “distress”
To “distress” the finish and create an appearance of age, gently sand the newly painted area with fine sandpaper (220 grade). Rub lightly at first to test how much pressure is needed, then apply more force in some areas to reveal more of the wood beneath.
The key to distressing is to sand the edges, corners, and beveled areas. You could also use a wire brush or other items to create an aged, rustic look.
Be careful not to sand too much, as this will remove the paint completely and leave you with bare wood. You want the piece of furniture to appear worn and distressed, but never unfinished.
Don’t go too heavy handed with the “distressing” to begin with. You can always add more if you decide that it needs it, but it is much harder to undo what has already been done.
4. Finish with a coat of clear polyurethane for added protection
For the best results, finish off the piece by sealing it with a coat or two of protective clear polyurethane. This will help to protect the paint from wear and tear and ensure that it looks beautiful for years to come. If you are using water-based polyurethane, make sure to apply two coats of it, allowing each coat to fully cure before applying the next one. If you are using oil-based polyurethane, you will only need to apply one coat.
When applying, use a brush or roller to put on an even layer of the polyurethane and make sure there are no bubbles or streaks. Allow it to dry for 24 hours before using or handling the furniture.
A well-painted piece of furniture looks amazing and, with proper care and maintenance, will last for many years.
By following the steps in this guide, you can create a beautiful finish that will look as good as new! Good luck and happy painting! 🙂 Good luck and happy painting! 🙂
