Have you ever looked at a piece of furniture in your home and thought it could use a fresh update? Whether you're aiming to transform a tired old dresser, breathe new life into a set of dining chairs, or add a pop of colour to a side table, the right furniture paint can make all the difference. In the UK, the market is full of options, so how do you choose the best one? Let's explore the best furniture paints you can find in the UK, taking into account various preferences, styles, and needs.
What to Consider When Choosing Furniture Paint
When selecting furniture paint, you'll want to consider several factors to ensure you achieve the best results. Here are the most important points to keep in mind:
Type of Paint
Different types of paint offer varied finishes and durability. Your choice will depend on the look you're aiming for and how much wear and tear the furniture piece is expected to endure.
Chalk Paint: This type of paint is renowned for its matte finish and velvety texture. It’s ideal for creating a vintage or shabby-chic look without the need for extensive prep work.
Milk Paint: Known for its all-natural ingredients, milk paint is perfect for creating an antique look. It’s also environmentally friendly and available in powdered form.
Acrylic Paint: This water-based paint is easy to work with, offers a wide range of colours, and dries quickly. It's versatile and ideal for various types of furniture.
Oil-Based Paint: This paint gives a glossy and durable finish, making it a good choice for high-traffic areas. However, it does require more drying time and ventilation during application.
Finish
The finish you choose will affect not only the appearance of the furniture but also its durability. Options range from matte to high-gloss.
Matte and Flat: Offers a contemporary look but can be less durable.
Eggshell and Satin: Provides a subtle sheen that is easy to clean and offers more durability than matte finishes.
Semi-Gloss and Gloss: These finishes are highly durable and ideal for pieces that will be frequently used or placed in busy areas.
Preparation and Application
Consider how much prep work you're willing to do.
Minimal Prep: Some paints like chalk paint require little to no sanding or priming.
High Prep: Paints like oil-based paints usually require sanding and priming for the best outcome.
Drying Time
This will depend on the type of paint and the number of coats required. Faster drying times are beneficial if you're looking to complete a project quickly.
Durability
Finally, durability is key, especially for frequently used furniture. Consider how much wear and tear the painted piece will endure.
Top Furniture Paint Brands in the UK
Now, let’s delve into some of the best furniture paint options available in the UK.
1. Annie Sloan Chalk Paint
Why It's Great: Annie Sloan is a household name when it comes to furniture paint, particularly chalk paint. Known for its easy application and minimal prep, it’s perfect for beginners and pros alike.
Colours Available: Over 30 colours, from rustic Old White to vibrant Emperor’s Silk.
Price Range: £18-£25 for a 1-litre tin.
Pros:
- Requires minimal prep
- Quick drying time
- Extensive colour range
Cons:
- Slightly expensive
- Requires a protective finish like wax or lacquer
2. Rust-Oleum Chalky Finish Furniture Paint
Why It's Great: Rust-Oleum provides a budget-friendly alternative to higher-end chalk paints. It offers a beautiful matte finish and is easy to work with.
Colours Available: Around 13 colours, including muted tones like Winter Grey and Duck Egg Blue.
Price Range: £12-£18 for a 750ml tin.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Minimal prep required
- Good coverage
Cons:
- Limited colour range
- Requires a topcoat for durability
3. Farrow & Ball Modern Eggshell
Why It's Great: Farrow & Ball is a premium brand known for its high-quality paints. The Modern Eggshell finish is perfect for furniture, offering durability and a soft sheen.
Colours Available: Over 130 colours, including unique shades like Stiffkey Blue and Hague Blue.
Price Range: £22-£32 for a 750ml tin.
Pros:
- Extensive colour range
- Durable finish
- Eco-friendly with low VOCs
Cons:
- Expensive
- Requires thorough prep and multiple coats
4. Johnstone’s Revive Chalky Furniture Paint
Why It's Great: Johnstone’s offers an affordable yet high-quality chalky furniture paint. It provides good coverage and a quality finish without breaking the bank.
Colours Available: About 9 colours, including Antique Sage and Duck Egg.
Price Range: £8-£12 for a 750ml tin.
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Good coverage
- Easy to apply
Cons:
- Limited colour range
- Requires a protective wax or varnish for durability
5. Dulux Quick Dry Satinwood
Why It's Great: Dulux is a well-known brand for household paints, offering a Quick Dry Satinwood perfect for furniture. It provides a durable finish that is easy to clean.
Colours Available: A wide variety including popular shades like Pure Brilliant White and Natural Hessian.
Price Range: £12-£18 for a 750ml tin.
Pros:
- Quick drying
- Durable and easy to clean
- Wide colour range
Cons:
- Requires proper sanding and priming
- Can be more difficult to work with compared to chalk paints
Comparing the Best Furniture Paints
To help you choose the best paint for your needs, here’s a comparison table of the top furniture paints mentioned:
| Brand | Type | Price Range | Colours Available | Prep Requirements | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Annie Sloan | Chalk | £18-£25/litre | 30+ | Minimal | Medium |
| Rust-Oleum | Chalk | £12-£18/750ml | 13 | Minimal | Medium |
| Farrow & Ball | Eggshell | £22-£32/750ml | 130+ | High | High |
| Johnstone’s | Chalk | £8-£12/750ml | 9 | Minimal | Medium |
| Dulux | Satinwood | £12-£18/750ml | Many | High | High |
Step-by-Step Guide to Painting Furniture
Now that you know which paints are top-rated, it’s time to get into the nitty-gritty of actually painting your furniture. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you achieve the best results:
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary materials:
- Paint of your choice
- Primer (if required)
- Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
- Paint brushes or rollers
- Soft cloth
- Protective finish (wax or lacquer, if required)
- Painter’s tape
- Drop cloth or newspaper to protect the work area
Step 2: Prep the Surface
Proper preparation is crucial for achieving a smooth finish.
- Clean: Wipe down the furniture with a damp cloth to remove any dust or grime.
- Sand: Lightly sand the surface to create a smooth base for the paint. Use medium-grit sandpaper for rough surfaces and fine-grit sandpaper for smooth surfaces.
- Prime: If your chosen paint requires a primer, apply it following the manufacturer's instructions. Let it dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Step 3: Start Painting
Once the surface is prepped, you can begin painting.
- Stir the Paint: Make sure to stir the paint thoroughly to ensure even colour and consistency.
- Apply the First Coat: Use a brush or roller to apply the first coat of paint. Work in long, even strokes to avoid brush marks.
- Let it Dry: Allow the first coat to dry completely. Drying time will vary depending on the type of paint used.
- Apply Additional Coats: If necessary, apply additional coats until you achieve the desired coverage and colour.
Step 4: Add a Protective Finish (if required)
Some paints require a protective finish to enhance durability.
- Wax: Apply the wax with a soft cloth, working it into the paint. Buff to a smooth finish.
- Lacquer or Varnish: Use a brush or roller to apply a thin, even layer. Let it dry completely before using the furniture.
Step 5: Enjoy Your New Furniture
Once the protective finish is dry, your furniture is ready to use. Admire your work and enjoy the fresh new look!
Creating Different Looks with Furniture Paint
Painting furniture isn’t just about covering up old finishes; it’s also a great way to showcase your personal style. Here are some ideas for different looks you can create:
Vintage or Shabby Chic
Use chalk paint and lightly sand the edges and corners once dry to give the piece a distressed, antique look.
Modern and Sleek
Choose an eggshell or satin finish in a bold colour like navy or charcoal. Sand well before and after painting to ensure a smooth finish.
Colour Blocking
Use painter’s tape to create geometric designs or patterns on your furniture. Paint each section a different colour for a vibrant, fun look.
Two-Tone
Paint the body of the furniture one colour and the drawers or doors another. This adds visual interest and can highlight architectural features of the piece.
Tips for Maintaining Painted Furniture
Proper maintenance can prolong the life of your newly painted furniture. Here are some tips to keep your piece looking fresh and vibrant:
Regular Cleaning
Wipe down the furniture regularly with a damp, soft cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the paint.
Protect from Heat and Moisture
Try to keep your furniture away from direct heat sources and moisture, as these can cause the paint to crack or peel.
Touch-Ups
Keep a small amount of the leftover paint for touch-ups. Minor scratches and dings can be easily fixed with a quick touch-up.
Conclusion
Choosing the best furniture paint in the UK largely depends on your specific needs and the look you’re aiming to achieve. From the luxurious finishes of Farrow & Ball to the budget-friendly and reliable options like Rust-Oleum and Johnstone’s, there is a wide variety of choices to suit your project.
Understanding the type of paint you need, considering the level of prep work you're willing to do, and knowing how to apply the paint correctly will set you up for success. By following this guide, you'll be well-equipped to transform any piece of furniture into a standout feature in your home.
Happy painting!
