The Ultimate Guide to Furniture Prep: Get a Professional Finish Every Time

Prepping furniture is the unsung hero of the upcycling world. It’s not glamorous, and it’s definitely not the bit you’ll be bragging about on Instagram, but trust me, it’s the difference between a stunning, professional looking finish and something that screams "amateur hour." So, roll up your sleeves, grab a brew, and let’s get stuck in...

Why Bother with Prep?

You might think skipping the prep saves time. Spoiler alert: it doesn’t. That glossy wardrobe you slapped paint on without sanding? In six months, it’ll be peeling faster than bad sunburn. Prep is what makes your finish last, look flawless, and avoid heartbreak later. So, let’s crack on.

Step 1: Clean, Clean, and Clean Again

First things first, give your furniture a good clean. And no, a quick wipe with a baby wipe won’t cut it. Years of dust, grease, and who knows what build up will mess with your paint adhesion faster than you can say “Fusion Mineral Paint.”

Here’s what you’ll need:

• A damp cloth and mild soapy water for general cleaning.

• TSP (trisodium phosphate) or a degreaser for those grimy spots—trust me, it’ll be worth it.

• Elbow grease (and lots of it).

Pro Tip: Be especially thorough with kitchen furniture. Grease has a habit of lurking where you least expect it, like that one mate who always turns up uninvited. For kitchen cupboards I'll always clean with TSP twice! 

Step 2: Sand Like You Mean It

Sanding might not be fun, but it’s where the magic happens. You’re not trying to strip it back to bare wood (unless it’s covered in dodgy, uneven varnish from the 70s), just enough to scuff up the surface so the paint can grip.

What you’ll need:

• Sandpaper (start with 120 grit and finish with 180 for a smooth surface).

• An electric sander if you’re doing a big piece and fancy saving your wrists.

• A sanding sponge for awkward corners—because furniture loves to throw in some curves to keep you on your toes.

Pro Tip: Don’t skimp on the dusting afterwards. Grab a microfibre cloth and give it a once-over to banish any lingering sanding dust. Your paint will thank you.

Step 3: Prime Time (Sometimes)

Not every piece needs primer, but when it does, don’t skip it. Priming is essential if:

• You’re painting over a dark or bold colour with a lighter one.

• Your furniture is laminate or glossy—nothing sticks to shiny surfaces without a fight.

• You’re dealing with tannin-rich woods like oak or mahogany (nobody wants those brown stains bleeding through your hard work).

Use a high-quality primer and follow the instructions. Yes, that means letting it dry properly—no sneaky shortcuts!

• For painting over dark or bold colours I'd use Fusion Transition, it's not officially a primer but a great money saver and will save you coats of paint.
• For a laminate or glossy surface after scuff sanding I'd apply Fusion Ultragrip.
• If you dealing with a potential bleed through then I'd opt for a coat of Zinsser BIN to stop the tannins. 

Step 4: Fix Any Bumps and Bruises

Furniture has history, and sometimes that history involves a few dings and scratches. Fill in any gouges or holes with wood filler and sand smooth once dry. For loose joints, a dab of wood glue can work wonders.

Pro Tip: Don’t ignore wobbly legs or squeaky drawers. Sort them now, or they’ll come back to haunt you like a bad takeaway.

Step 5: Get Your Paint Ready

Before you dive into painting, give your chosen colour a good stir. Fusion Mineral Paint, my go-to, doesn’t need a topcoat for most projects, but a bit of prep here can save you hassle later. Pour your paint into a tray or container (no double-dipping straight from the pot, thank you very much).

Learn from my mistakes

• "If a job’s worth doing, it’s worth doing right": Your nana wasn’t wrong. Put the effort in during prep, and you’ll reap the rewards.

• "Don’t rush it": Prep is like brewing a proper cup of tea. Good things take time.

Conclusion: Ready to Rescue?

Now you’ve got the tools and know how to prep furniture like a pro. Whether you’re working on a family heirloom or a charity shop find, the secret to stunning results is all in the groundwork. Ready to give it a go? Pop into Rescued Designs for premium Fusion Mineral Paint, prep supplies, and expert advice. Or, better yet, join one of our workshops and learn the ropes firsthand.

Because at Rescued Designs, we’re not just about furniture—we’re about stories, transformations, and a bit of Northern charm. Let’s rescue something beautiful together.