When Perth mum Emily Maxwell spotted a plain white coffee table at Kmart for just $25, she knew it had potential—even if it didn't quite fit her home's warm, cosy aesthetic.
With one clever trip to Bunnings and $18 worth of spray paint, she transformed that basic piece into something that looks like it came from a high-end furniture store.
It's the kind of budget-friendly makeover that proves you don't need to splash out hundreds of dollars on new furniture to refresh your living space. Whether you're looking to update pieces you've had for decades or want to give op-shop finds a new lease of life, spray painting furniture has become one of the most popular DIY transformations—and for good reason.
Emily's simple transformation technique
Emily's approach was refreshingly straightforward. After purchasing the white Kmart table, she headed to her local Bunnings and picked up a can of Rust-Oleum 2X Ultra Cover spray paint in Satin Espresso. The rich, dark tone was perfect for creating the 'warm, inviting and full of character' look she wanted for her home.
'I absolutely love putting my own twist on pieces—like spray painting and reviving old or plain pieces of decor that I already own,' Emily explained. 'So, I figured, why not try it with the table?'
The transformation was dramatic. The plain white table that looked out of place in her carefully curated interior became a sophisticated piece that complemented her 'darker, richer tones that create a sense of depth and coziness, balanced with beautiful woods that bring warmth and texture into the space.'
'I love that it doesn't have to cost a lot—you can start small and work within your own budget, which makes it super accessible'
Essential safety considerations for senior DIYers
While Emily's project was beautifully simple, spray painting requires careful attention to safety, particularly for older adults who may be more sensitive to fumes and chemicals. Here's what you need to know before starting your own furniture transformation.
Workspace setup is crucial. Outdoors is ideal for ventilation, but be mindful of weather conditions, bugs, and debris. If working indoors, a garage or well-ventilated room is suitable. Open all windows and doors, and use fans to circulate air.
Temperature matters more than you might think. Professional DIYers recommend spray painting when it's between 70° to 85°F with relatively low humidity, as temperatures much hotter or cooler create risks for poor finishes.
Essential safety gear for spray painting
Respirator mask (not just a dust mask)
Safety glasses or goggles
Nitrile gloves
Long sleeves and long pants
Closed-toe shoes
Hat to protect hair
The one thing Emily wishes she'd done differently
Emily was refreshingly honest about her learning process. Her biggest regret? Not sealing the finished piece. 'I've learned that sealing it would've helped protect the surface and keep it looking fresh for longer,' she admitted.
This insight is backed up by professional furniture refinishers. Applying a glossy or matte topcoat protects the finish from scratches and fading, with most projects requiring two or more coats of polyurethane or wax to properly seal paint.
Source: @willoweverose / Tiktok.
Professional techniques for flawless results
Want to achieve results that rival expensive furniture? With proper preparation, technique, and care, you can achieve professional-looking results that will last for years by choosing the right paint and primer, preparing your workspace and furniture surface carefully, and applying thin, even coats.
Surface preparation makes all the difference. Start by thoroughly cleaning furniture to remove dirt, grime, and oils using a damp cloth and mild detergent solution for stubborn dirt, then allow the piece to dry completely before proceeding.
The secret to smooth finishes? Several layers of quick, light sprays are better than one heavy layer—you get drippy paint if it's too heavy. Stay about six to eight inches away from your surface and go slow and steady.
Professional spray painting tips
- Always test spray pattern on cardboard first
- Apply multiple thin coats rather than one thick coat
- Overlap spray patterns by 50 per cent for even coverage
- Allow proper drying time between coats
- Sand lightly between coats if surface feels rough
- Finish with protective topcoat for durability
Smart shopping for your spray painting project
Emily's total cost of $43 ($25 for the table plus $18 for paint) demonstrates just how budget-friendly this approach can be. One of the most significant advantages of spray-painting furniture is its cost-saving benefits—instead of splurging on brand-new items, you can achieve a similar effect at a fraction of the cost.
A 4.5 ounce can of spray paint covers about 7 square feet, while a 16 ounce can covers about 30 square feet, so you can gauge how much paint you'll need based on your piece's surface area.
When shopping at Bunnings, look for spray paints specifically designed for furniture. Rust-Oleum's 2X Ultra Cover range, which Emily used, is formulated for durability and adhesion. Choose specialised paint for wood with good adhesion and protection against environmental damage, or rust-resistant paint for metal pieces.
Common pitfalls to avoid
Spray paint can crackle or bubble when air is too cold, too humid, furniture is too cold from sitting in a garage or basement, or there's debris on the furniture that was missed during cleaning. If this happens, wait until the piece is fully dry, sand the problem spot smooth, and try again.
Emily's advice echoes what professionals recommend: 'Take your time and do things properly the first time around. It's so tempting to rush through a project just to see the end result, but slowing down and paying attention to the details makes such a difference.'
Did you know?
Did you know?
Spray paint works on more than just wood! You can successfully transform metal, laminate, and even rattan or wicker furniture pieces, making it one of the most versatile DIY techniques for furniture makeovers.
Making it work for your lifestyle
The beauty of Emily's approach is its accessibility. 'I love that it doesn't have to cost a lot—you can start small and work within your own budget, which makes it super accessible,' she told Yahoo Lifestyle. 'There's something so satisfying about creating or transforming something yourself without spending a fortune.'
Small pieces with tight crevices work well when you want to try distressing techniques, while larger items offer opportunities for speedy coverage with spray paint. If you're new to furniture painting, starting with a simple piece like Emily's coffee table is perfect for building confidence.
For those concerned about physical demands, consider breaking the project into smaller stages. Different paint types require different drying times, so always allow ample time between coats and follow manufacturer instructions. This actually works in your favour—you can work at your own pace without rushing.
What This Means For You
Emily's coffee table transformation proves that sometimes the simplest projects deliver the most satisfying results. With proper safety precautions, quality materials, and a bit of patience, you can achieve professional-looking furniture makeovers for a fraction of the cost of buying new.
Whether you're working with op-shop finds, updating pieces you've owned for years, or giving plain retail furniture some personality, spray painting opens up endless possibilities for creating a home that truly reflects your style.
Ready to try your own furniture transformation? Start small, prioritise safety, and remember Emily's key advice: take your time and do things properly the first time around. The results will be worth the effort.
Have you tackled any furniture makeovers recently, or do you have a piece in mind that could use some TLC? We'd love to hear about your DIY successes (and learning experiences) in the comments below!
Primary Source
https://au.lifestyle.yahoo.com/18-b...kmart-coffee-table-really-easy-031832312.html
How to Spray Paint Wood Furniture For a Fresh Look—This Old House
Cited text: Always wear a respirator mask to protect yourself from fumes.
Excerpt: spray painting requires careful attention to safety, particularly for older adults who may be more sensitive to fumes and chemicals
https://www.thisoldhouse.com/painting/21331681/how-to-spray-paint-wood-furniture
Can Furniture Be Spray Painted? Top 1 Transforming Old Pieces Techniques | Q-Furniture
Cited text: Mask: Prevent inhalation of solvent fumes and paint dust.
Excerpt: spray painting requires careful attention to safety, particularly for older adults who may be more sensitive to fumes and chemicals
https://q-furniture.com/can-furniture-be-spray-painted/
How To Paint or Stain Furniture Using a Paint Sprayer
Cited text: Wear protective gear such as gloves, safety glasses/goggles, spray sock (hood), hat, proper footwear, dust masks and respirators.
Excerpt: spray painting requires careful attention to safety, particularly for older adults who may be more sensitive to fumes and chemicals
https://www.graco.com/us/en/homeown...-home-furniture-using-an-airless-sprayer.html
Furniture Makeover with Spray Paint—Lemons, Lavender, & Laundry
Cited text: Wear a mask to avoid breathing in the paint, gloves to protect your hands from getting all full of paint, and safety goggles to avoid getting paint in...
Excerpt: spray painting requires careful attention to safety, particularly for older adults who may be more sensitive to fumes and chemicals
https://www.lemonslavenderandlaundry.com/spray-paint-furniture/
Spray Painting Furniture (Revisited) | Centsational Style
Cited text: Make sure you wear a respirator when spray painting, you don’t want to breathe in any of the fumes that come with this process.
Excerpt: spray painting requires careful attention to safety, particularly for older adults who may be more sensitive to fumes and chemicals
https://centsationalstyle.com/2013/10/spray-painting-furniture-revisited/
How to Spray Paint Wood Furniture For a Fresh Look—This Old House
Cited text: Outdoors is ideal for ventilation, but be mindful of weather conditions, bugs, and debris. If working indoors, a garage or well-ventilated room is sui...
Excerpt: Outdoors is ideal for ventilation, but be mindful of weather conditions, bugs, and debris.
https://www.thisoldhouse.com/painting/21331681/how-to-spray-paint-wood-furniture
How to Spray Paint Wood Furniture For a Fresh Look—This Old House
Cited text: Open all windows and doors, and use fans to circulate air.
Excerpt: Open all windows and doors, and use fans to circulate air
https://www.thisoldhouse.com/painting/21331681/how-to-spray-paint-wood-furniture
How to Flawlessly Spray Paint Furniture
Cited text: I like to spray paint when it’s between 70• to 85•F with relatively low humidity. I’ve spray painted in temps much hotter and much cooler and it’s alw...
Excerpt: Professional DIYers recommend spray painting when it's between 70° to 85°F with relatively low humidity, as temperatures much hotter or cooler create risks for poor finishes
https://www.homestoriesatoz.com/furniture/how-to-flawlessly-spray-paint-furniture.html
Can Furniture Be Spray Painted? Top 1 Transforming Old Pieces Techniques | Q-Furniture
Cited text: Apply a glossy or matte topcoat to protect the finish paint layer from scratches and fading.
Excerpt: Applying a glossy or matte topcoat protects the finish from scratches and fading, with most projects requiring two or more coats of polyurethane or wax to properly seal paint
https://q-furniture.com/can-furniture-be-spray-painted/
How to Paint Furniture—The Home Depot
Cited text: Most furniture will need a protective top coat. Choose a satin polyurethane or furniture wax. Most projects require two or more coats of polyurethane ...
Excerpt: Applying a glossy or matte topcoat protects the finish from scratches and fading, with most projects requiring two or more coats of polyurethane or wax to properly seal paint
https://www.homedepot.com/c/ah/how-to-paint-furniture/9ba683603be9fa5395fab90e687ae1e
How to Spray Paint Wood Furniture For a Fresh Look—This Old House
Cited text: With proper preparation, technique, and care, you can achieve professional-looking results that will last for years. Remember to choose the right pain...
Excerpt: With proper preparation, technique, and care, you can achieve professional-looking results that will last for years by choosing the right paint and primer, preparing your workspace and furniture surface carefully, and applying thin, even…
https://www.thisoldhouse.com/painting/21331681/how-to-spray-paint-wood-furniture
How to Spray Paint Wood Furniture For a Fresh Look—This Old House
Cited text: Start by thoroughly cleaning the furniture to remove dirt, grime, and oils. Wipe down the surface with a damp cloth and use a mild detergent solution ...
Excerpt: Start by thoroughly cleaning furniture to remove dirt, grime, and oils using a damp cloth and mild detergent solution for stubborn dirt, then allow the piece to dry completely before proceeding
https://www.thisoldhouse.com/painting/21331681/how-to-spray-paint-wood-furniture
Furniture Makeover with Spray Paint—Lemons, Lavender, & Laundry
Cited text: Several layers of quick, light sprays is better than one heavy layer. I still go overboard sometimes, but you get drippy paint if it’s too heavy.
Excerpt: Several layers of quick, light sprays are better than one heavy layer—you get drippy paint if it's too heavy
https://www.lemonslavenderandlaundry.com/spray-paint-furniture/
Spray Painting Furniture (Revisited) | Centsational Style
Cited text: I apply two to three light coats of spray paint—lighter fine coats are the best.
Excerpt: Several layers of quick, light sprays are better than one heavy layer—you get drippy paint if it's too heavy
https://centsationalstyle.com/2013/10/spray-painting-furniture-revisited/
Paint Spray Gun For Beginners: Smooth Furniture Makeover — prettydistressed
Cited text: You want to be about six to eight inches away from your surface and you want to go slow and steady.
Excerpt: Stay about six to eight inches away from your surface and go slow and steady
https://www.prettydistressed.com/blog/paint-spray-gun-for-beginners-smooth-furniture-makeover
Can Furniture Be Spray Painted? Top 1 Transforming Old Pieces Techniques | Q-Furniture
Cited text: One of the most significant advantages of spray-painting furniture is its cost-saving benefits. Instead of splurging on brand-new items, you can achie...
Excerpt: One of the most significant advantages of spray-painting furniture is its cost-saving benefits—instead of splurging on brand-new items, you can achieve a similar effect at a fraction of the cost
https://q-furniture.com/can-furniture-be-spray-painted/
How to Paint Furniture—The Home Depot
Cited text: A 4.5 ounce can of spray paint covers about 7 square feet. A 16 ounce can covers about 30 square feet.
Excerpt: A 4.5 ounce can of spray paint covers about 7 square feet, while a 16 ounce can covers about 30 square feet
https://www.homedepot.com/c/ah/how-to-paint-furniture/9ba683603be9fa5395fab90e687ae1e
Can Furniture Be Spray Painted? Top 1 Transforming Old Pieces Techniques | Q-Furniture
Cited text: Below are some important factors to consider when selecting paint: Wood: Choose specialized paint for wood, with good adhesion and protection against ...
Excerpt: Choose specialised paint for wood with good adhesion and protection against environmental damage, or rust-resistant paint for metal pieces
https://q-furniture.com/can-furniture-be-spray-painted/
How to Flawlessly Spray Paint Furniture
Cited text: There are a few reasons spray paint crackles or bubbles. I’ve had it happen when the air outside is too cold, too humid, the piece of furniture is too...
Excerpt: Spray paint can crackle or bubble when air is too cold, too humid, furniture is too cold from sitting in a garage or basement, or there's debris on the furniture that was missed during cleaning
https://www.homestoriesatoz.com/furniture/how-to-flawlessly-spray-paint-furniture.html
DIY Furniture Painting for Beginners | RMP Finishes
Cited text: Handmade bare furniture offers the ideal surface for a new paint job, while existing wooden furniture such as nightstands and dining room buffets offe...
Excerpt: Small pieces with tight crevices work well when you want to try distressing techniques, while larger items offer opportunities for speedy coverage with spray paint
https://www.rmpfinishes.com/help/tutorials/furniture-painting-guide/
How to Paint Furniture—The Home Depot
Cited text: Latex paint, oil paint and spray paint require different drying times. For best results, always allow ample drying time between coats. Read the label ...
Excerpt: Different paint types require different drying times, so always allow ample time between coats and follow manufacturer instructions
https://www.homedepot.com/c/ah/how-to-paint-furniture/9ba683603be9fa5395fab90e687ae1e
Seniors Discount Club
Latest Articles
-
Prince Andrew drops title as new details on the Epstein scandal are revealed
- Started by Michelle Engbino
- Replies: 0
-
-
Reused signature among string of issues as home owner left with unfinished build
- Started by ABC News
- Replies: 0
-
Raise a glass! Enjoy $100 off your first case from Naked Wines today
- Started by Aubrey Razon
- Replies: 1
-
Millions being spent as Australia prepares for deadly H5 strain of bird flu
- Started by ABC News
- Replies: 0
