How Much Does It Cost To Paint A Dresser? (Dresser Painting Cost Guide)

There are a few things to consider when calculating how much painting a piece of furniture will cost: the type of paint, the finish, the number of coats required, and the size of the project.

When you should paint a dresser?

It is best to paint a dresser when it is in an unfinished or pre-primed state. This will create the smoothest surface and allow you to get the best results, as any possible imperfections on the surface will be easily covered up by your chosen type of paint.

Painting a dresser without a primer may lead to chipping and cracking over time. Therefore, if you are looking to give your furniture a facelift, we recommend painting your dresser when it is unfinished or pre-primed for the most successful outcome.

How much paint to paint a dresser?

Note: To calculate how much paint you need for your particular dresser, you can measure its surface area (length x width) and multiply this by the number of coats you intend to use. For instance, if your dresser is 4 feet long and 2 feet wide and you plan to use two coats of paint, then it would require 8 quarts (7.5 L) of paint in total.

What paint to use when painting a dresser?

When painting a dresser, it is recommended to use high-quality furniture paint that is designed specifically for wood surfaces and provides good coverage and durability. Some of the popular types of paint that can be used for painting dressers include:

Paint	Description
1. Latex paint –	This water-based paint is easy to clean up, dries quickly, and offers a wide range of color options. It is also low in VOC (volatile organic compounds) and emits less harmful fumes.
2. Chalk paint –	This type of paint has a unique matte finish and a chalky texture that can give a vintage look to the furniture. It requires minimal prep work and can be applied without sanding or priming.
3. Milk paint –	This eco-friendly paint is made from natural ingredients such as milk protein, lime, and earth pigments. It creates a smooth, velvety finish and can be used to create various effects such as distressing, antiquing, and layering.
4. Oil based paint –	This type of paint offers excellent adhesion and durability, making it suitable for furniture that will be heavily used and exposed to moisture or heat. However, it takes longer to dry and can emit strong fumes, requiring proper ventilation and safety precautions.

What type of paint is best for dressers?

The best type of paint to use for dressers is a high-quality, latex-based paint that is specifically designed for furniture. This type of paint is durable and provides a smooth finish that will last longer than other paints. 

For extra protection and long-lasting results, you should also consider using a clear sealer over the top of the dress to protect it from scratches and scuffs.

What do I need to repaint a dresser?

To repaint a dresser, you will need the following materials:

Necessary Items	Optional Items
1. Sandpaper or sanding block	1. Wood filler
2. Painter’s tape	2. Putty knife
3. Primer	3. Tack cloth
4. Paint	4. Clear coat or sealant for added protection
5. Paint brushes or a paint sprayer	5. Dust mask or respirator if sanding or painting in a poorly ventilated space.
6. Drop cloth or plastic sheeting to protect your work area	–    –
7. Cleaning supplies such as soap and water, or a degreaser	–    –

How much does it cost to paint a dresser?

The cost to paint a dresser varies depending on several factors such as the size of the dresser, the type of paint used, the amount of prep work required, and the location of the service provider. On average, the cost to paint a dresser can range from $50 to $500 or more.

1. Size of the Dresser:	The size of the dresser is an important factor that affects the cost of painting. Generally, larger dressers require more time and effort to paint, which means the cost will be higher. A small dresser with a few drawers will cost less compared to a large dresser with many drawers and compartments.
2. Type of Paint:	The type of paint used also affects the cost of painting a dresser. High-quality paint will cost more than standard paint. If you plan to use a specific finish, such as glossy or matte, it may also affect the cost.
3. Prep Work:	Prep work is an essential part of painting a dresser. The dresser needs to be sanded, cleaned, and primed before painting to ensure a smooth finish. The amount of prep work required depends on the condition of the dresser. If the dresser is in good condition, it may not require extensive prep work, and the cost will be lower. But, if the dresser has dents, scratches, or other damages, it will require more prep work, which will increase the cost.
4. Location:	The location of the service provider also affects the cost of painting a dresser. The cost may be higher in urban areas where the cost of living is higher.

How much does it cost to refinish a dresser?

This includes sanding and scraping off existing paint or varnish, restoring any damages or imperfections, applying primer and new finish layers, and painting or staining in the desired color. Additional costs may be incurred if more detailed work such as decorative accents is required.

How long does it take to paint a dresser?

The amount of time it takes to paint a dresser will depend on the size of the dresser as well as the level of detail and complexity involved in the design. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere between four and 12 hours for an experienced painter to paint a dresser.

This includes preparation work such as prepping, sanding, priming, and sealing. Moreover, if the dresser is very detailed with ornate carvings or intricate designs, this may add additional time to complete the project.

How much should I charge to paint furniture?

The amount you should charge to paint furniture will depend on several factors, including

1. The type of furniture,

2. The size and complexity of the project, and

3. The quality of your materials and services.

To determine an accurate rate for painting furniture, consider what it costs you to purchase supplies and tools, how much time each job will take you, and any additional labor costs that may be associated with obtaining outside help (if needed).

Note: Factor in any possible transportation costs (if required), time spent on marketing or communications with potential clients, as well as a fair hourly rate for your labor. It is also important to set a fixed cost for specific jobs so that both parties understand how much they will be paying from start to finish.

Hire someone to paint furniture

If you’re up for the challenge and want to get creative with your own hands-on approach then you can certainly try painting furniture yourself; though keep in mind it could take you much longer and be more difficult if you don’t have any prior experience.

Ultimately, it comes down to whether the option of hiring a professional is worth it for your particular project in terms of time, cost efficiency, and desired outcome.

Furniture painting price list

I have made a chart of estimation of prices that may vary depending on the size, design, and location you’re in. But it might give you a rough idea about how much it may cost when you will need to paint your furniture.

Living Room Furniture Painting:	Bedroom Furniture Painting:	Dining Room Furniture Painting:
1. Coffee Table: $75	1. Nightstand (pair): $100	1. Sideboard/Buffet Cabinet: $450
2. End Tables (pair): $150	2. Dresser & Mirror Set: $375	2. China Cabinet or Hutch: $600
3. Bookcase: $225	3. Vanity or Desk: $275	3. Dining Table & Chairs (4): $750
4. Sofa Table: $250	4. Chest of Drawers: $350	–    –
5. Console Table: $400	–    –	–    –
6. TV Stand: $425	–    –	–    –

Furniture refinishing price guide

When it comes to refinishing furniture, the cost can vary depending on a variety of factors. Here is a general price guide to give you an idea of what to expect:

Factors	Explanation
1. Size of the furniture:	The larger the piece of furniture, the more time and materials will be required, which can drive up the cost. A small table may cost as little as $100 to refinish, while a large dining room table could cost several hundred dollars.
2. Type of finish:	The type of finish you choose will also impact the cost. A simple painting job will be less expensive than a complex staining or varnishing job, which requires more time and expertise.
3. Condition of the furniture:	If the furniture is in poor condition, with scratches, dents, or other damage, it will require more work to refinish. This can increase the cost.
4. Type of wood:	Different types of wood require different techniques and materials to refinish, which can also affect the cost.
5. Location:	The cost of refinishing furniture can vary depending on where you live. Rates tend to be higher in urban areas where the cost of living is higher.

As a general rule, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $1000 or more to refinish furniture, depending on the above factors. It’s always best to get a quote from a professional refinisher to get a more accurate estimation for your specific piece of furniture.

Professional furniture painting

Professional furniture painters are capable of a wide range of skills and services, including:

1. Refinishing and restoring old or damaged furniture to its original beauty and functionality, using techniques such as sanding, staining, painting, or repairing broken or missing parts.

2. Customizing furniture pieces to match a specific vision or design theme, whether it’s a unique color scheme, pattern, or texture.

3. Providing expert advice and guidance on selecting the best materials, finishes, and colors for a particular piece of furniture, taking into account the client’s preferences and needs.

4. Upholstering furniture with new fabrics or materials to extend the life of the piece and give it a fresh look that matches current trends or personal style.

5. Applying advanced techniques such as distressing, antiquing, or glazing to give a vintage or aged appearance to furniture pieces, adding character and charm to any room.

6. Collaborating with interior designers, architects, or homeowners to create custom furniture pieces that meet specific functional or aesthetic requirements, such as built-in storage, ergonomic features, or unique shapes.

7. Providing maintenance and care advice to help clients keep their furniture pieces in optimal condition for years to come, including tips on cleaning, polishing, and protecting finishes.

Can you paint a dresser by yourself?

Choose the right type of paint for the material of the dresser, and use brushes or a spray gun for even coverage. With a little patience and attention to detail, you can transform an old dresser into a beautiful and unique piece of furniture.

How to properly paint a dresser?

Painting a dresser can be an easy and affordable way to give it a new look. Here are some steps to follow to properly paint a dresser:

Steps	Explanation
1. Remove all hardware:	Start by removing all the hardware from the dresser such as knobs, handles, and hinges. This will make it easier to paint and ensure a smooth finish.
2. Clean the dresser:	Use a damp cloth to clean the dresser thoroughly. Remove any dirt, grime or dust from the surface. Wipe it dry with a clean cloth.
3. Sand the surface:	Use sandpaper to rough up the surface of the dresser. This will help the paint adhere better. Sanding also removes any old paint or varnish that may be on the surface.
4. Prime the dresser:	Using a primer will help the paint stick to the dresser. Apply a thin coat of primer to the surface of the dresser. Allow it to dry completely before painting.
5. Paint the dresser:	Once the primer has dried, apply a thin coat of paint to the surface of the dresser using a brush or roller. Let it dry completely before adding another coat. Repeat this process until the desired finish is achieved.
6. Reattach hardware:	After the final coat of paint has dried, reattach all the hardware to the dresser. Make sure it is properly aligned and secured.
7. Finish:	To give the dresser a smooth and glossy finish, apply a clear coat of polyurethane or wax. This will protect the paint and make it last longer.

By following these steps, you can properly paint a dresser and give it a new life.

Conclusion 

The cost to paint a dresser varies depending on the size of the dresser, the quality of supplies and tools used, and how much time the job requires. On average, one can expect to pay anywhere from $50-$500 or more for professionals or DIYers to paint a dresser. 

Depending on circumstances, this can either be an affordable investment in a new detail piece for your home, or it may require more planning if you are working with a tight budget. 

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions