How to Paint an Old Dresser

Painting an old dresser is a great way to reimagine it for use! Additionally, equip it with new drawer pulls and decorative baskets in place of the top drawer and you're good to go! Follow our step-by-step instructions on how to paint a dresser below, then enjoy your handiwork for years to come.

Supplies for This Project

Purdy^® WhiteDove™
Purdy^® Revolution 9" Frame
Purdy^® XL™ Sprig
A dresser with removable drawers
2 decorative storage baskets (optional)
New drawer pulls (optional)
Water with dish soap
Sponge
Putty knife

1. Prep

Wash the surface of the dresser with a mixture of dish soap and warm water, then let dry.

2. Sand

Using medium grit sandpaper, lightly sand all surfaces to be painted.

If you don’t have an electric sander, use a sanding sponge or block instead.

3. Wipe Down

With a damp sponge, wipe down the dresser to remove all sanding dust.

Follow with a dry cloth to absorb any residual moisture.

4. Fill In Holes or Nicks

If your dresser shows signs of wear and tear, apply wood filler with a putty knife to fill in any imperfections. This will create a fresh, smooth surface.

5. Personalize

For some added character, remove the top drawer to make room for decorative storage baskets.

6. Prime

Apply Extreme Bond Primer and let dry for at least 2 hours.

Tip: Priming adds another layer of protection, creating a smoother, more even finish.

7. Paint

Pick two colors and paint your dresser! We chose Delightful SW 6289 and Fleur de Sel SW 7666.

Tip: For ease, use a 2” brush on edges and corners and a roller on flat surfaces.

8. Add Finishes

Add the hardware of your choice, to give the dresser the exact style you’re looking for.

9. Enjoy!

WARNING! Removal of old paint by sanding, scraping or other means may generate dust or fumes that contain lead. Exposure to lead dust or fumes may cause brain damage or other adverse health effects, especially in children or pregnant women. Controlling exposure to lead or other hazardous substances requires the use of proper protective equipment, such as a properly fitted respirator (NIOSH approved) and proper containment and cleanup. For more information, call the National Lead Information Center at 1-800- 424-LEAD (in US) or contact your local health authority.

Delightful SW 6289

Fleur de Sel SW 7666

Colors We Used

Check out our most popular colors for your most important projects to develop your color palette and create like a pro. See the colors we used for this design below.

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