Bedside tables and cabinets can look tired after a few years but there’s not always the need to buy a new one – instead you could simply decorate your current table and breathe new life into it with a lick of paint.
Transforming your old bedside table into something fresher and more vibrant can be done in just a few quick steps. All you need is some sandpaper, cloth, primer and paint together with a spot of time and creative thinking. How adventurous you are is up to you – you may want to paint the bedside cabinet in white for a clean look or go for something more colourful and eye-catching with bold colours or an intricate pattern.
1. Sand it
Before you start to paint your table you need to sand it down to remove the old paint and ensure the new stuff sticks well to the surface. Use fine sandpaper and work over the surface of the table or cabinet.
2. Clean it
Next you need to remove the surface of dirt and dust or you’ll contaminate the paint. Use a small amount of white spirit and a lint-free cloth and wipe it across the table. Make sure it’s totally clean before moving onto the next step.
3. Prime it
Putting primer on the furniture first will make it easier for the main paint to go on, and is well worth doing.
4. Paint it
Ideally use water-based acrylic paint rather than solvent-based paint as not only does it dry faster it doesn’t leave behind a smell. Apply two coats, ensuring the first layer is fully dry before adding the second. A good tip is to use a small paint brush for the edges and fiddly bits, and a roller or large paintbrush for the main sections.
All this shouldn’t take you long or make too much of a mess, and the end result should be pleasing. By painting the piece of furniture yourself you will not only make it look newer but you can then match it to the other pieces of bedroom furniture you own. However, DIY is not for everyone and should you decide you’d rather replace your bedroom table, there are plenty of options available, including different styles and prices. For example, you could invest in a classical oak bedside table with large drawer and cupboard space or a painted bedside cabinet for that traditional look.