How to Repaint Antiques

Prepare your painting surface. Apply a drop cloth under the object you are painting and open a window if you are indoors. Cover your face with a face mask to keep from inhaling dust and paint fumes.

Sand the entire surface with 60-grit sandpaper, wipe it down with a cloth and sand it again with 220-grit paper, removing most of the lacquer or paint. Sanding is essential because it gives the paint a surface to grip when applied. Skipping this step will cause your paint to chip shortly after finishing your project.

Wipe the surface of the antique down with your lint-free cloths or vacuum the surface to remove any dust.

Apply the primer. Apply one coat of primer to the surface of the antique with the paint brushes or foam rollers. Use slow, long strokes to ensure a smooth covering. Sand the surface lightly after the primer is fully dry. Wipe down the surface with the lint-free towel.

Apply the paint. Apply paint with a roller or brush, using an up-and-down motion, covering the whole surface. Let the first coat dry. Then sand lightly and wipe down. Apply a second coat of paint and sand any brushstrokes or roller strokes.

For a shiny surface that will hold up to more wear than paint alone, apply two coats of lacquer with a paint brush, allowing the first to dry before applying the second coat.