How to Upcycle Ikea Furniture with Hemway Furniture Paint

Upcycling is not only a creative endeavour but also a sustainable way to give your old Ikea furniture a fresh, new look. Whether you are aiming to breathe new life into a chest of drawers, cabinet, or side table, Hemway Furniture Paint provides a straightforward and elegant solution to achieve stunning results.

With just a bit of effort and the proper tools, you can easily transform plain, uninspiring furniture into something both beautiful and unique. By following this step-by-step guide, you will discover how simple and rewarding the process of upcycling can be. So, gather your materials, prepare your workspace, and let’s get started on this exciting project!

To Upcycle a Chest of Drawers with Furniture Paint You'll Need:

• Hemway chalk based furniture paint
• A paint brush (we recommend a Hemway chalk and wax brush)
• Wood mouldings (measure the front of your drawers to determine the length you will need)
• A saw
• Measuring tape or T-square
• Wood glue
• Hemway clear lacquer
• Wood filler
• New handles for drawers

Step-by-Step Guide to Upcycling Your Ikea Furniture with Furniture Paint

Step 1: Measure and Mark the Mouldings

Start by measuring the mouldings or decorative trim against the front of the furniture drawer(s). Place the mouldings around the edges of the drawer to determine where you will need to make your cuts. Use a pencil to mark the measurements directly onto the moulding for accuracy. Make sure to measure twice to avoid any mistakes!

Step 2: Cut the Mouldings at a 45-Degree Angle

Using a saw, carefully cut the mouldings at a 45-degree angle. This is important to ensure the pieces fit together neatly to form a rectangular frame on the drawer. Take your time and double-check that each cut aligns correctly.

Step 3: Glue the Mouldings in Place

Apply wood glue to the back of each cut moulding piece. Carefully position them on the drawer fronts to create the rectangular frame you measured earlier. Press firmly to ensure the mouldings adhere securely to the surface. Allow the glue to set as per the manufacturer's instructions.

Step 4: Fill the Gaps with Wood Filler

Once the mouldings are in place, use wood filler to fill any visible gaps, joints, or imperfections. Apply a small amount of filler to your fingers and press it into the gaps. Smooth the surface as much as possible, and allow it to dry completely before moving to the next step.

Step 5: Paint the Drawers with Hemway Furniture Paint

Now comes the fun part - painting! Choose your favourite shade of Hemway Furniture Paint and apply an even coat to the drawers and surrounding surfaces using a paintbrush or roller. Hemway paint is designed to provide excellent coverage, so you may only need one or two coats, depending on the colour and finish. Ensure you allow the paint to dry fully between coats (check the paint instructions for drying times).

Step 6: Mark and Drill Holes for the Handles

Once the paint has dried, it’s time to add the handles. To ensure perfect placement:

1. Place a piece of painter's or masking tape over the existing screw holes (or where you want the handles to go) and mark the centre points with a pencil.
2. Remove the tape and carefully place it on the centre of the drawer front.
3. Use the marks on the tape as a guide and drill the holes for the handles. Be sure to drill straight and avoid going too deep.

Step 7: Attach the Handles

Once the holes are drilled, attach the handles using the provided screws. Tighten the screws securely but avoid over-tightening to prevent damage to the furniture.

Step 8: Apply Hemway Clear Lacquer

For a long-lasting, durable finish, apply Hemway Clear Lacquer over the painted surface. Consequently the lacquer will protect the paint from wear and tear, giving your upcycled furniture a professional, polished look. Use a clean paintbrush to apply a thin, even coat, and allow it to dry completely before handling.

The Final Result

Congratulations! You’ve successfully upcycled your Ikea furniture using Hemway Furniture Paint, and the results are truly impressive. By combining decorative mouldings, vibrant paint, and a clear lacquer, you can seamlessly transform a plain piece of furniture into a unique and stylish focal point for your home.

This creative process is not only straightforward enough for beginners to try but also offers ample opportunities for personalisation and innovation. Whether you choose to make a bold statement with a pop of colour or lean towards a classic, neutral finish, the possibilities are virtually endless. Therefore with each step, from preparation to finishing touches, you can bring your vision to life in a way that reflects your personal style.

Who is The Carpenter's Daughter?

Vikkie (AKA The Carpenters Daughter) is a passionate DIY enthusiast and content creator known for her hands-on approach to upcycling and home improvement projects. Combining creativity with practicality, she inspires her audience to transform everyday furniture into unique and stylish pieces. Through her blog, videos, and tutorials, she shares expert tips and step-by-step guidance, empowering people to embrace sustainable living and give new life to old items with furniture paint. Her work highlights the beauty of upcycling, proving that with a little imagination and effort, anyone can create something extraordinary.