Thinking about giving your old furniture a fresh new look using leftover house paint? It may seem like a smart way to save time and money, but before you dip that brush, it’s essential to understand how different paints behave on different surfaces.
In this guide, we answer the common question: Can you use house paint on furniture? We’ll walk you through the pros, cons, and best practices, so you can achieve a beautiful, long-lasting finish — whether you’re painting a timber chair, a cabinet, or a coffee table.
House Paint vs Furniture Paint: What’s the Difference?
Not all paints are created equal — especially when it comes to surface compatibility and durability. House paint is typically designed for large, flat surfaces like walls and ceilings, while furniture paint is made to withstand frequent contact, cleaning, and wear.
Key Differences:
- Durability: Furniture paint is formulated to resist chipping, scratching, and frequent handling. House paint may not hold up as well on high-use surfaces.
- Finish: Furniture-specific paints often provide a smoother, more even finish with fewer brush marks.
- Flexibility: House paint can be thick and rigid, which may lead to cracking or peeling on furniture over time.
Expert Tip: If you still want to use house paint, opt for water-based acrylic paints, which are more flexible and furniture-friendly than oil-based paints.
When Is It Okay to Use House Paint on Furniture?
While it’s not ideal, yes — you can use house paint on furniture, provided you follow the correct prep and finishing steps. For budget-conscious homeowners or small DIY projects, this can be a practical choice.
When It Works:
- For indoor furniture like side tables, bookshelves, or frames that don’t get heavy use.
- When sealed properly with a high-quality topcoat to protect the surface.
- On surfaces that have been thoroughly prepared, including sanding and priming.
When to Avoid It:
- On high-traffic furniture such as dining tables or chairs.
- On outdoor furniture, unless the paint is rated for exterior use and sealed appropriately.
- On glossy or laminate surfaces, which require extra prep and may still peel.
Pro Tip: Always test a small, hidden section before committing to painting the entire piece.
How to Prepare Furniture for Painting with House Paint
If you’ve decided to use house paint on furniture, preparation is key to achieving a quality finish that lasts. Follow these simple steps to ensure the best results:
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Clean the Surface: Remove dust, grime, and grease using sugar soap or a mild cleaner.
- Sand Thoroughly: Use fine-grit sandpaper to roughen up the surface for better paint adhesion.
- Apply a Quality Primer: A furniture-appropriate primer helps prevent peeling and creates a stable base.
- Use the Right Brush or Roller: Microfibre rollers or synthetic brushes work well for smooth finishes.
- Apply Thin Coats: Multiple thin layers dry more evenly and reduce the risk of drips or brush marks.
- Seal the Surface: Finish with a clear polyurethane topcoat or furniture wax for protection and longevity.
Note: Skipping the sealing step is one of the biggest mistakes homeowners make — especially when using wall paint on furniture.
Final Thoughts: Is House Paint Suitable for Furniture?
To recap:
- Yes, house paint can be used on furniture, but it’s not always the best option.
- Thorough preparation and sealing are essential to ensure lasting durability and a polished, professional finish.
- Furniture-specific paints are designed for better adhesion, longevity, and finish quality.
When in doubt, it’s worth investing in the right materials — or better yet, hiring a professional to bring your furniture to life with the perfect colour and finish.
Thinking About a Furniture Makeover? Let Painting Brothers Help
At Painting Brothers, we don’t just paint homes — we breathe new life into furniture, feature walls, and everything in between. Our experienced team knows how to choose the right products and apply them with expert precision for stunning, long-lasting results.
✅ Furniture Refinishing & Painting
✅ Interior & Exterior Painting Services
✅ Eco-Friendly Paint Options
✅ Free Colour Advice & Quotes
Contact us today at paintingbrothers.com.au to learn more or request a free quote. Let’s give your furniture the upgrade it deserves.
