Expert: Eileen Cronk - 6/8/2008

Question
Hi, I would like to paint only the top of a old wooden dresser in a very dark brown (espresso) shade.  The dresser top has received spill stains over the years, etc. I plan to do the sanding by hand & am wondering what grit of paper to use and what type of paint I should use.  I have never done this before. Thanks in advance.
Donna

Answer
Hi Donna
Nice to hear from you.
Get a couple of sheets of 120 grit sandpaper.
A padded sanding block is great on a flat surface like this.
The sand paper is secured to the sanding block.
No need for a deep sanding just a good scuffing so the paint will stick.
I would use a good primer like "Kilz" if you have staining on the dresser top because it could bleed through although it probably would not show on a very dark color like you picked.
Get a good quality water based semi gloss or egg shell paint as the top coat.
I would not use gloss as it shows every finger mark.
And get a good water based brush too.
Great project
Regards
Eileen