How to Paint a Table for a Child

Select a child-safe paint. Look for one that has no volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, as these can be toxic. A gloss or semigloss paint will be easiest to clean. Choose one color for the background. Go for bright, bold colors, which can encourage creativity in your child. If you want to add a pattern or other design to the table, select additional colors in the same brand and type as the first. Sample-size cans of paint are perfect for colors of which you will need a small amount.

Sketch the design for the table. This can be as simple as one solid color for a basic workspace. But for a more whimsical play table, you can paint a more intricate design on the top. Young boys may enjoy a table with roadways and city landmarks painted on top for their toy cars to travel on. For little girls, consider painting a magical fairyland or kingdom for their dolls to explore. Geometrical designs or borders can be fun, too.

Sand down the table to remove any splinters or rough edges. If you are working with a brand-new piece of furniture, this might not be necessary, but a garage sale find or an older piece might need a fair amount of sanding.

Paint the table in the main color. Allow the first coat to dry, then apply a second coat. Wait at least 24 hours for the table to dry completely before adding other designs.

Sketch your design in pencil on the top of the table, then fill in with paint. If you do not want to paint a complex design on the table, add simpler accents such as stripes, polka dots, a border or the child's name in stenciled letters.