How to Refinish Old Bedroom Furniture: A Complete Guide

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How to Refinish Old Bedroom Furniture: A Complete Guide

08/20/2025 12:00 AM by Sara Anna in Home improvement


Not only does fixing up old bedroom furniture save you money, but it also injects your room with nostalgia and history that can't be replicated. Whether it's a dresser, an old nightstand, or a tired wooden bed frame, refinishing provides the opportunity to re-invent pieces you already own. With a little time, patience and the right products you can bring old furniture back to life into something beautiful. 

Old-Bedroom-Furniture

Step 1: Pick the Perfect Piece 

The truth is that not every piece of furniture deserves to be refinished. Solid wood is best because wood is more sturdy and you'll be able to sand, stain or paint it easily. Steer clear of anything particleboard or laminate unless you are willing to accept that limited options such as painting done only. Choose for sturdy furniture with reinforced joints, functional drawers, and little to no frame damage. 

Second hand store finds can make great refinishing projects, and sentimental pieces or aged family antiques with good bones but need cosmetic help are excellent candidates for this project range.

Step 2: Gather Your Supplies 

Here are the tools and materials you will need before you start, 

  • Hammer or drill
  • Sandpaper or an electric sander
  • Filler
  • Stain or paint
  • Paintbrushes or rags
  • Polyurethane or furniture wax for protection
  • Drop cloth and gloves

If you are not exactly certain of the type of materials or tools you need, some furniture shops in Perth WA will carry refinishing products, paints and merchandise which can help with timber care or may have suggested local stockists. You should also ask the staff if you're planning on using specific types of woods for tips and tricks. 

Step 3: Prep the Surface 

First remove all hardware (i.e. knobs, handles, hinges) and then set these aside. To clean, soak the edges for a few mins in warm soapy water to clear away any muck. 

First do them all over with a damp cloth and mild detergent to clean off any dirt, oils or residues. Once dry, begin sanding. Start with coarse-grit sandpaper to remove the old finish and then move down to a finer grit for an even finishing. Always sand with the grain to prevent scraping. 

If there are any dents, holes or deep scratches you can fill them with wood filler, let it dry completely and sand again.

Step 4: Apply Stain or Paint 

Now it’s time to refinish! A rag or brush to apply the stain (if staining) Let it dry completely and then, if you wish, apply another coat of Chalk Paint®. For painting, prime if necessary and then coat the color of your choice over the entire piece. 

Allow each coat to dry thoroughly, and sand gently between coats for a professional, smooth finish.

Step 5: Seal and Protect 

When your paint or stain is completely dried give it a great layer of protective finish. Polyurethane leaves a tough, glossy finish, but wax imparts a gentler, matte appearance. This is important in preserving your effort for many years to come.

Give Your Bedroom Furniture a Fresh New Look Today! 

Before you toss that old dresser or nightstand, consider refinishing your bedroom furniture as a cost-effective and rewarding way to update your space. Whether you're fixing a family antique or are upcycling something secondhand, small projects have a big impact. Are you worried about making-over an old piece, and giving a new life to furniture? So, get down and dirty with your refurnishing project on your dream bedroom makeover today.


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