Painting supplies laid out for refinishing a vintage dresser, including sandpaper, primer, chalk paint, and brushes.
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How to Paint a Vintage Dresser: Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

ByGlowNestBlogger

When I decided to learn how to paint a vintage dresser, I was both excited and a little nervous. Would it turn out the way I imagined? Would the paint stick? What if I ruined a perfectly good piece? Thankfully, after some trial and error (and a lot of research), I figured out a simple process that made the transformation easy and fun.

If you’re thinking about how to paint a vintage dresser and give an old piece new life, you’re in the right place. I’m breaking down every step, sharing what worked for me, and linking to helpful tools and expert tips along the way. Let’s dive in!

Why Painting a Vintage Dresser Is Totally Worth It

Painting a vintage dresser isn’t just about changing its color. It’s about preserving character while adding your personal style. According to Better Homes & Gardens, restoring and painting old furniture is one of the most rewarding DIY projects you can tackle. Plus, it’s eco-friendly and budget-friendly.

When you paint a piece yourself, you also get to control the exact look: bold, soft, distressed, glossy — it’s completely up to you.

Step 1: Choose the Right Dresser

Not every dresser is a good candidate for painting. Look for:

  • Solid wood or high-quality veneer
  • Minimal structural damage
  • Interesting details like carved legs or decorative trim

Avoid pieces that have a lot of warping, water damage, or loose joints unless you’re comfortable repairing them.

"Painting supplies laid out for refinishing a vintage dresser, including sandpaper, primer, chalk paint, and brushes.
Essential supplies you need before painting a vintage dresser — gather everything ahead for a smooth DIY project

Step 2: Gather Your Supplies

Here’s a simple shopping list based on what I used:

  • Mild soap and water for cleaning
  • Sandpaper (120 and 220 grit)
  • Tack cloth
  • Primer (if needed)
  • Chalk paint or mineral paint (Fusion Mineral Paint is my favorite)
  • Good-quality brushes or a foam roller
  • Clear wax or polyurethane topcoat

I found that using the right paint and sealer made a huge difference in how smooth and durable the finish turned out.

Flat lay of essential painting supplies for refinishing a vintage dresser, including chalk paint, brushes, sandpaper, and primer.
Gather all your painting supplies before starting your vintage dresser makeover for a smooth and stress-free DIY

Step 3: Clean and Prep Thoroughly

First, clean the entire dresser with mild soap and water. Get rid of grease, dust, and any old polish.

Next, lightly sand the surface with 120-grit sandpaper. You don’t have to remove all the old finish — just scuff it enough so the new paint can grip.

Wipe everything down with a tack cloth to catch the dust. If you’re painting a very shiny or laminate surface, a coat of primer like Zinsser BIN Primer is a good idea.

Step 4: Paint in Thin, Even Coats

Here’s my best advice: don’t rush. Apply thin coats of paint, letting each coat dry completely before adding another. I usually needed two to three coats.

Brush strokes don’t have to be perfect. Chalk paint especially evens itself out as it dries, which is part of its charm.

Step 5: Distress (Optional)

If you love that rustic, vintage look, you can lightly sand the edges after the final coat dries to reveal the wood underneath.

Use 220-grit sandpaper and a light touch around corners, drawer edges, and raised details. Don’t overdo it — you want the wear to look natural.

Applying the first thin coat of chalk paint to a sanded vintage dresser using a soft-bristle brush
Apply thin, even coats of chalk paint for a smooth, flawless finish that brings out the beauty of your vintage dress

Step 6: Seal and Protect

After the paint fully dries, apply a clear wax or polyurethane sealer. I prefer clear wax like Annie Sloan’s Clear Chalk Paint Wax, which gives a soft, velvety finish.

Use a clean cloth to apply wax in a circular motion, then buff gently after 10-15 minutes. For high-use furniture, like a dresser you’ll open daily, consider a tougher polyurethane topcoat instead.

Bonus Tips for Painting Success

  • Always work in a dust-free, well-ventilated area.
  • Remove drawers and hardware before starting.
  • If you make a mistake, it’s easy to lightly sand and repaint!
  • Practice on a small thrifted piece first if you’re nervous.

Final Thoughts: You Can Absolutely Do This

Learning how to paint a vintage dresser might seem intimidating at first, but it’s incredibly rewarding. Every time I walk past mine, it makes me smile knowing I transformed it with my own hands.

If you’re feeling inspired, be sure to check out my full post on Vintage Painted Dressers That Steal the Show to see more ideas on how to style your finished piece!

With the right prep, a little patience, and a lot of heart, you’ll have a gorgeous piece that’s uniquely yours.

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