How to Paint Children’s Table and Chairs

Are you looking for a fun and creative way to revamp your children’s table and chairs? Painting them is a simple and affordable solution that will give them a fresh new look and allow you to get your kids involved in the process.

Painting children’s tables and chairs can be a delightful and creative project that breathes new life into older furniture or customizes new pieces to match a child’s unique personality and room decor.

Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or new to furniture painting, this guide will walk you through the steps how to paint children’s table and chairs, and most importantly, the enthusiastic use by children.

By choosing the right materials, correctly preparing the surfaces, and applying the paint with care, you can create beautiful, durable, and safe furniture that will be cherished for years.

What Will You Need?

Before we dive into the painting process, here is a list of materials and tools you will need for this project:

• Children’s table and chairs (wooden or plastic)
• Fine-grit sandpaper
• Tack cloth or damp cloth
• Painter’s tape
• Drop cloths or old bedsheets
• Primer (specifically formulated for children’s furniture if possible)
• Latex or acrylic paint (water-based and non-toxic)
• Paintbrushes (various sizes)
• Foam rollers (optional)
• Sealer (optional but recommended for added durability)

10 Easy Steps on How to Paint Children’s Table and Chairs

Step 1: Preparation

Proper preparation is key to a successful furniture painting project. Start by choosing a well-ventilated area where you can lay out your drop cloths or old bed sheets to protect the floor from accidental spills or drips.

Next, clean the table and chairs thoroughly with a damp cloth, removing any dust or dirt that may affect the paint’s adhesion. If your furniture has been previously painted, use fine-grit sandpaper to lightly sand down the surface, creating a smooth base for the new paint to adhere to. Wipe away any sanding debris with a tack cloth or damp cloth.

Step 2: Remove Hardware

If the table and chairs have any hardware, such as screws or knobs, it’s best to remove them before you start painting. This ensures that you can paint all surfaces evenly and avoid unwanted paint drips on metal parts.

Place the hardware in a small container or plastic bag, and keep it in a safe spot where it won’t be lost. Removing hardware also makes it easier to sand and paint around areas where hardware might otherwise get in the way.

Step 3: Apply Painter’s Tape

Applying painter’s tape is essential to ensure clean lines and prevent paint from getting on areas you don’t want it to, such as hinges or joints. Carefully apply painter’s tape to any edges that you do not wish to be painted, including the underside of the table and chairs. Make sure to press down firmly on the edges of the tape to prevent paint from seeping underneath.

Step 4: Prime the Furniture

Priming the furniture is a crucial step to help the paint adhere better and create a longer-lasting finish. Choose a primer that is specifically formulated for your furniture material, whether it’s wood or plastic.

Apply a thin, even coat of primer using a paintbrush or foam roller, and be sure to cover all surfaces, including any nooks and crannies. Allow the primer to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically for several hours or overnight.

Step 5: Sand Again After Priming

Once the primer is fully dry, lightly sand the surface again with a fine-grit sandpaper. This step might seem redundant, but it is important to create a smooth surface to which the paint can bond. Sanding after priming also helps to smooth out any brush strokes or imperfections left by the primer. Wipe down the furniture again with a tack or damp cloth to remove any sanding dust.

Step 6: Applying the First Coat of Paint

Now comes the fun part—painting! Choose a non-toxic, water-based latex or acrylic paint that is safe for children’s furniture. Apply a thin, even coat of paint to the table and chairs using a paintbrush or foam roller.

Start with the broad, flat surfaces and then move on to any more detailed areas, ensuring that the paint is evenly spread and devoid of drips. Allow the first coat to dry completely per the paint manufacturer’s instructions.

Step 7: Sand Between Coats

For the best results, lightly sand the painted surfaces between coats with fine-grit sandpaper. This helps ensure an even, smooth finish and removes any brush strokes or imperfections. Remember to remove any sanding dust with a tack cloth before applying the next coat of paint.

Step 8: Apply Additional Coats

Depending on the color and type of paint you are using, you may need to apply several coats to achieve the desired coverage and finish. Repeat the painting process, allowing each coat to dry completely, sanding lightly, and removing dust before adding another coat. Typically, two to three coats of paint will be sufficient to create a vibrant and durable finish.

Step 9: Optional – Apply a Sealer

Applying a sealer is an optional but highly recommended step to protect the painted surfaces from scratches, stains, and general wear and tear. Choose a clear, non-toxic sealer that is appropriate for children’s furniture.

Apply a thin, even coat using a clean paintbrush or foam roller, and let it dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions. A sealer can add an extra layer of durability and longevity to your finished project.

Step 10: Reassemble and Enjoy

Once all paint and sealer layers are thoroughly dry, carefully remove any painter’s tape. Reattach any hardware you removed earlier, and check that all pieces are securely assembled.

Finally, step back and admire your handiwork! Your freshly-painted children’s table and chairs are now ready to be enjoyed. They will add a splash of color and personality to your child’s room and serve as a proud testament to your creativity and effort.

By following these ten easy steps, you can transform a tired and dull piece of furniture into a vibrant and personalized addition to your child’s space.

5 Additional Tips and Tricks

1. Choose Non-Toxic Paint: Always select non-toxic, water-based paint when painting furniture for children. These paints are safer for kids and have fewer fumes, making for a healthier environment.
2. Apply Thin, Even Coats: Rather than trying to cover the furniture in one thick layer, apply several thin coats. This method ensures a smoother finish and prevents drips or streaks. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
3. Seal the Paint: Apply a clear, non-toxic sealant once the paint has dried completely. This final protective layer will help the painted surface withstand wear and tear from daily use and make cleaning easier.
4. Check for Lead: Before painting any old or antique furniture, it’s essential to check for lead paint. If the piece was manufactured before 1978, there is a high chance that it contains lead-based paint, which can be harmful, especially for children. You can purchase a lead test kit from your local hardware store and follow the instructions to determine if the furniture has lead paint.
5. Experiment with Different Techniques: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different painting techniques on your furniture pieces. For example, instead of using a brush, you can use a sponge or stencils to create unique patterns and designs. You can also use different colors and finishes to add depth and personality to the piece.

5 Things You Should Avoid

1. Using Lead-Based Paint: As mentioned earlier, lead-based paint can be hazardous, especially for children. Ensure that all paints used are lead-free to avoid potential health risks.
2. Skipping Sanding: Skipping the sanding process can result in uneven surfaces and poor paint adhesion. Always sand the furniture thoroughly before painting to achieve a smooth and durable finish.
3. Overlooking Primer: Primer helps paint adhere better to the surface and can enhance the durability of the finish. Do not skip this step, especially when working with bare wood or previously painted surfaces.
4. Painting in Poor Conditions: Avoid painting in damp or humid conditions, as moisture can affect drying and lead to an uneven finish. It’s best to paint in a controlled, well-ventilated environment with moderate temperatures.
5. Rushing the Drying Process: Allow ample time for each coat of paint to dry completely before applying the next. Rushing this process can lead to smudging, streaking, or an uneven finish. Patience is key to achieving a professional-looking result.

Conclusion

How to paint children’s table and chairs can be a fun and rewarding project, provided you take the necessary steps to ensure safety and quality.

You can create beautiful and durable furniture pieces by choosing non-toxic paints, applying thin and even coats, sealing the paint, and experimenting with different techniques.

Additionally, it’s crucial to avoid using lead-based paint, skipping sanding, overlooking primer, painting in poor conditions, and rushing the drying process.

Following these tips and tricks will ensure your children’s safety and result in a professional and attractive finish that you and your children will enjoy for years to come.