How to Paint a Wooden Dining Table

If you’re looking to refresh the look of your dining room or simply want to change the color of your table, painting a wooden dining table is a great way to achieve a brand-new appearance. Whether you’re working with solid wood or MDF, the process of painting a wooden table is relatively simple, but it does require some preparation to ensure the best results. From sanding and priming to selecting the right type of paint and varnish, there are several steps to follow to make sure your table’s finish is smooth, durable, and long-lasting. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to successfully paint a wooden dining table and give it a fresh, updated look.

How to Paint a Wooden Dining Table?

Wood is one of the easiest materials to paint because it accepts many types of paint. That’s why painting a wooden dining table is actually quite simple. However, most dining tables have a glossy and smooth surface, which can make it harder for the paint to adhere.

Therefore, properly preparing the surface before painting is crucial to ensure good adhesion. Since a dining table is used daily, the tabletop is especially prone to wear and tear. For this reason, extra protection is necessary, particularly for the top surface.

What Kind of Paint do You Use on a Table?

Acrylic, latex, and other water-based paints are the most suitable options for painting a wooden dining table because they are easy to apply and dry quickly. Whether you prefer a matte, semi-gloss, or glossy finish, all water-based paints work well for this project. “Related post: Oil based stain vs water based” Let’s start with the list of materials needed to paint a dining table.

Supplies Checklist

• Water-based paint (Acrylic paints are a great option)
• Medium-grit sandpaper (180 to 220 grit)
• A soft-bristled paintbrush
• Damp cloth
• Three short-nap roller
• Water-based primer
• Paint tray
• Water-based varnish

How to Paint a Dining Table?

Wooden tables come in a wide variety of types and colors. Whether your table is MDF or solid wood, you can use the same painting method. You might also want to change the color of a wooden table if you’ve grown tired of its current shade.

In any case, painting a large six-person dining table with two coats will require at least 1.5 liters of paint (excluding chairs). To ensure a long-lasting finish, don’t rush the process or skip the preparation stage. Since a dining table is used daily, the top surface is especially prone to wear and tear. Here’s a step-by-step guide to painting a wooden table.

1-Clean the Table

Wipe the table with a damp cloth. If there are greasy or sticky spots, make sure they are completely clean and dry, as paint and primer won’t adhere well to an oily surface. However, if you plan to sand the table, you can skip this step.

2-Sanding

Sanding is especially important for wooden dining tables with glossy or varnished surfaces. These finishes tend to repel paint, so sanding creates tiny scratches that help the paint adhere better. After sanding, wipe away the dust to prepare the table for painting. If you plan to use a primer, you can skip this step.

3-Apply Primer

Priming is an important step to help the paint adhere properly and cover the table’s original color. A water-based primer works well for this. Use a small roller to apply one coat of primer. However, if the table’s original color is light and you have already sanded it, you can skip this step. Still, priming before painting is a good precaution to ensure better adhesion.

4-Wait for the Primer to Dry

Wait at least four hours for the primer to dry completely. Make sure it is fully dry before painting; otherwise, the paint won’t adhere properly and may start peeling over time.

5-Apply at Least Two Coats of Paint to the Table

Use a high-quality, short-nap roller for a smooth finish and a brush for edges and rounded areas. After the primer dries, apply at least two coats of paint, waiting at least four hours between coats. If the environment is cold, allow extra drying time for the first coat. “Related article: How to paint in winter.”

6-Apply Water-Based Varnish

One day after applying the second coat of paint, apply a layer of varnish to the tabletop. While varnish isn’t always necessary, it’s highly recommended to protect the surface from scratches and fading.

A single coat of varnish is usually enough, but for extra protection, apply a second coat after 24 hours. Water-based varnishes are available in matte, semi-gloss, and glossy finishes, so choose one that best fits your style.

When applying varnish, use a high-quality foam roller to avoid roller marks. One day after applying the varnish, your table will be ready to use!

Additional Tips

In addition to the basic steps, here are a few important factors to consider when repainting your dining table:

• Ventilation is key: Always work in a well-ventilated area, especially when using paint, primer, or varnish. Proper airflow helps the paint dry faster and reduces fumes.
• Test the paint: Before applying paint to the entire table, test it on a small, hidden area. This ensures you’re satisfied with the color and finish.
• Use quality tools: Invest in high-quality brushes and rollers, such as short-nap or foam rollers. These help achieve a smooth, professional finish with fewer roller or brush marks.
• Apply thin coats: Instead of thick layers, apply paint and varnish in thin, even coats. This prevents drips, ensures even drying, and results in a smoother final finish.
• Time your work: Be patient with drying times. Rushing the process can lead to rough surfaces or bubbling. Follow the recommended drying times between coats—typically around four hours per layer.
• Consider table usage – Think about how often the table will be used. For heavily used dining tables, choose a durable, easy-to-clean paint and consider adding an extra coat of varnish to extend the paint’s lifespan.

Frequently Asked Questions