Hey everyone, At Home with Ashley here!

Here’s the before picture of the record player. It definitely wasn’t in perfect condition- lots of scratches and dings and paint splatters. I knew when I bought it from the thrift store for $30 (I still can’t get over that deal!) that I’d paint it.

Is it bad to paint wood furniture?

Ok- let’s make this short. Do what you want that makes you happy and works in your house. The end. Lol- let’s dive in deeper.

It’s not uncommon that people say that in every case you should never paint wood. And I get that! Honestly, I grew up with that mentality as well. However, I think it’s a little less black and white than that.

Generally, there are a few times when you shouldn’t paint wood.

1. WHEN THE ORIGINAL FINISH IS BEAUTIFUL

So, if the original finish is beautiful then you can hold back from painting. Also, a few finishes are very classic and don’t really go out of style. Then you don’t have to worry about updating them as styles come and go. Yay!

Personally, I don’t hesitate to paint a piece if the original finish is damaged. Some pieces can be easily repaired. But in some cases, the damage is beyond saving.

2. WHEN THE FURNITURE IS A VALUABLE ANTIQUE
3. WHEN YOU WANT TO STRIP THE FINISH AND ENJOY THE WOOD

Finally, many pieces have a good bone structure but a not-so-nice finish. In that case, it’s totally fine to strip the finish and give it a prettier one so you enjoy it how you want it.

Here are some times it makes sense to paint wood.

1. WHEN YOU WANT TO PERSONALIZE AND CUSTOMIZE A PIECE

Painting can be such a fun way to express your style and personality and gives you the joy of creating.

When I paint furniture- I always use chalk paint. I have a good overview on chalk paint here if you’re new to it.

2. WHEN YOU SAVE FURNITURE FROM THE DUMP
3. WHEN YOU CARE ABOUT SUSTAINABILITY

painting wood is a great option if you care about sustainability and using available resources to their maximum!

Imagination and paint goes a long way to making an older piece look fabulous again! Plus you’re keeping it from being disposed of.

4. WHEN YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A TRENDY STATEMENT

Finally, painting is perfect when you want to have a current, specific look. Since paint is easily changed or covered, you can always repaint it when you’re ready for a new look.

Also, you can always adapt a painted piece to your home’s color scheme as it changes over the years.

How To:

So I primed it with Slick Stick and then painted it with Dixie Belle Paint Sea Glass.

I replaced the orange speaker fabric with beige speaker fabric. Next, I switched out the metal on the speakers for caning to modernize it a bit. Plus, I was really excited to add caning in this house!

Here’s the finished up record player! Didn’t it turn out so sweet?! It’s fun and playful and I sure love the color!

I got a more retro look and it sounds great with the speakers.

To learn more, head to At Home with Ashley here!

About the Author

At Home with Ashley

Ashley of At Home with Ashley is a interior designer focused on home decor tips and renovations. She is interested in how good design intersects with a happy life at home. Ashley is passionate about creating a beautiful home and life and helping you do the same.

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