Thinking of giving your tired furniture a new lease of life? Spray painting is one of the most effective ways to revitalise wooden and MDF furniture — quickly, cleanly, and with a professional finish. At J&D Sprayers & Makeovers, we specialise in spray-painted furniture transformations across Scotland, and we’re here to share our top expert tips for getting the job done right.

Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or considering hiring a pro, this guide will walk you through the essential steps for achieving long-lasting, showroom-quality results.

1. Prepare the Surface Properly

The key to any professional finish is in the prep work. Spray paint highlights imperfections, so you need a perfectly clean, smooth surface before spraying begins.

✅ Best Practices:

• Clean the furniture thoroughly — remove grease, dust, and residue.

• Repair dents, holes, or scratches using wood filler.

• Sand all surfaces to create a smooth, even base. Start with medium-grit, then fine-grit sandpaper.

• Remove sanding dust with a tack cloth or damp rag.

2. Use the Right Paint and Tools

Not all spray paints or tools are created equal. For furniture, you’ll need paints designed for durability and adhesion — and ideally, professional spray equipment.

✅ What We Recommend:

• Use furniture-grade spray paints or 2K polyurethane coatings for superior durability (what we use for kitchen units and high-use furniture).

• Choose the right spray gun settings and nozzle for the piece — e.g. vertical for doors, horizontal for flat tops.

• Always wear proper PPE: mask, gloves, and eye protection.

3. Protect Your Workspace

Spray painting is efficient, but it’s also messy if you’re unprepared. Protecting your surroundings is essential.

✅ Set Up Smart:

• Cover floors, walls, and surrounding furniture with dust sheets or plastic.

• Work in a well-ventilated area or, even better, a dedicated spray booth (like ours).

• Use painter’s tape to mask off any areas you don’t want coated.

4. Master the Technique

Getting that smooth, streak-free finish depends on your spray technique. Whether you’re using a spray can or professional gun, consistency is everything.

✅ Expert Application Tips:

• Hold the spray gun about 20–25 cm (8–10 inches) from the surface.

• Use steady, sweeping motions across the surface.

• Overlap each pass slightly to maintain even coverage.

• Apply light coats — multiple thin layers work better than one thick one.

💡 Pro Tip: Use the “wet edge” technique — spray in overlapping passes while the previous coat is still wet. This helps eliminate lines or patchiness.

5. Allow Proper Drying Time

Spray painting is quick — but curing time still matters. Rushing the process can lead to sticky finishes or flaws that need redoing.

✅ Drying Guidelines:

• Allow each coat to dry fully before applying the next (check paint specs).

• Avoid touching or moving the item during curing time.

• In cooler climates, drying may take longer — be patient!

6. Apply a Durable Topcoat (If Required)

For most furniture, especially high-traffic items like tables, cabinets, or drawers, we always recommend sealing with a clear topcoat — unless you’re using a 2K polyurethane system, which has built-in protection.

✅ Sealing Tips:

• Use clear lacquer or varnish in a matching finish (matte, satin, gloss).

• Apply 2–3 thin coats for best results.

• Sand lightly between coats for a silky-smooth final finish.

7. Finish and Maintain Your Piece

Once your furniture is fully dry and cured, check for any minor imperfections. Use ultra-fine sandpaper to gently buff out bumps or drips. You can also add new hardware or line drawers for a premium touch.

✅ Aftercare:

• Wipe with a soft cloth and mild cleaner.

• Avoid harsh chemicals or scrubbing pads.

• Handle with care for the first week while the finish cures fully.

When to Hire a Professional

While DIY spray painting is possible, it comes with a learning curve — and often requires costly tools. For larger pieces, kitchens, or high-end finishes, the best results come from professionals with the right equipment, experience, and environment.

At J&D Sprayers & Makeovers, we offer:

• Fully equipped spray booth and drying room

• Expert colour matching and custom finishes

• Durable, commercial-grade coatings

• Collection and delivery across Scotland

Ready for a Flawless Finish?

If you’d rather skip the hassle and go straight to professional results, contact J&D Sprayers & Makeovers today. We’ll transform your furniture with precision and care — whether it’s a single piece or a full kitchen refinish.

📩 Message us for a free quote
📍 Serving Glasgow, Edinburgh, and surrounding areas
🔧 Specialists in furniture, kitchen, and wood spray refinishing