The New Year is the perfect time to tackle something new—and what better way to start than by refreshing your home? Refinishing furniture is a fun, creative, and rewarding project that can completely transform your space. If you’re new to painting furniture, don’t worry! With the right tools and a few beginner-friendly tips, you’ll be creating stunning pieces in no time. 

Here’s everything you need to get started, plus some Dixie Belle Paint products perfect for first-time painters. 

A dark blue painted dresser with gold hardware sits on a light brown floor in front of a white wall; knick knacks sit on top of the dresser. A blue painted accent table sits on a white floor in front of a white curtain. A plant in a basket sits on the floor to the left of the table; a plant in a brown pot sits on top of the table.

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies 

Before diving into your project, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand. Here’s a beginner-friendly kit to get you started: 

A jar of White Lightning, Fluff Chalk Mineral Paint and a Chip brush on a white background with information about what comes in the Chalk Mineral Paint Starter Kit

Step 2: Choose the Right Paint 

For first-time painters, Dixie Belle Chalk Mineral Paint is a game-changer. It’s easy to use, self-leveling, and requires little prep work. Plus, with 75 stunning colors, there’s a shade for every style. 

If you’re refinishing a piece that gets heavy use, like a table or kitchen cabinets, Silk All-In-One Mineral Paint is another great option. It includes a built-in primer and topcoat, saving you time and effort. 

An open jar of Kudzu Chalk Mineral Paint sits on a white table; a paint brush with Kudzu Chalk Mineral Paint sits on a green cup behind the paint. An open jar of Cape Current Silk All-In-One Mineral Paint sits on a dark blue platform with a paint brush above the jar

Step 3: Prep Your Furniture 

Prepping your piece is essential for a smooth, long-lasting finish. Follow these simple steps: 

  1. Clean Thoroughly: Use White Lightning and a sponge to remove any dirt, grease, or buildup. 
  2. Scuff Sand: Lightly sand the surface to help the paint adhere better. This step is especially important for glossy finishes. 
  3. Wipe Down: Use a damp cloth to remove sanding dust and let the surface dry completely. 

To learn more about proper prep, check out our blog, All About Paint Prep: How to Get a Flawless Finish Every Time. 

Step 4: Start Painting 

Here’s how to achieve a flawless finish: 

  1. Apply Thin Coats: Using your brush, apply a thin, even layer of paint. It’s better to do multiple thin coats rather than one thick coat to avoid drips. 
  2. Let It Dry: Allow each coat to dry completely before adding another (usually 1-2 hours). 
  3. Add a Topcoat: For added durability, especially on high-traffic pieces, finish with Dixie Belle Clear Coat in your preferred sheen (Flat, Satin, or Gloss). 

Three open jars of paint with two paint brushes next to them sit on a white table; instructions on how to properly apply are printed on the photo

Step 5: Add Creative Details 

Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can experiment with techniques like distressing, blending, or adding a transfer. Dixie Belle has a wide range of products to help you unleash your creativity! 

A pink painted dresser with the Peaceful Peonies decoupage paper on the top two drawers; sitting on a brown wooden floor in front of a white painted wall; a vase holding flowers and greenery sits on the floor to the right of the dresser. A green painted dresser with the My Favorite Bouquet transfer applied in various spots on the drawers; sitting on a brown rug in front of a white wall; a wooden ladder and a green tree in a basket sit to the left of the dresser; a green plant in a basket and a pile of books sit on the floor to the right of the dresser; a lamp and several different knick knacks sit on top of th edresser.

Why Dixie Belle Paint? Dixie Belle Paint products are designed with beginners in mind. They’re easy to use, high-quality, and versatile, making them perfect for both simple and advanced projects. Whether you’re painting a small side table or a large dresser, you’ll love how effortlessly your pieces come to life. 

An open jar of Caviar Chalk Mineral Paint, A closed jar of Acadia Silk All-In-One Mineral Paint next to a jar of Extra Coat with paint brushes of each, 3 open cans of No Pain Gel Stain, Open 4 oz & 16 oz jars of Pacific Moonshine Metallics paint

Start Your Journey Today! 

This New Year, make a resolution to explore your creative side and transform your home with Dixie Belle Paint. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refine your skills, our beginner-friendly kits and tips make it easy to start. 

What project will you tackle first? Share your ideas in the comments—we’d love to see your progress! 

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Featured, Home Decor, How To, Living Room

About the Author

Dixie Belle Paint Company

Dixie Belle Paint Company provides a line of chalk mineral paint that is high quality, easy to use, and most importantly priced so every DIYer can create and discover the joy of painting.

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