How do you paint varnished furniture?

I would sand the piece really well, making sure that all surfaces are hit, with 120 grit paper, and then wipe it clean or vaccum the dust. Then I would use an oil-based primer to cover it. Let that dry until it can be sanded smooth with 180 grit paper. You may have to go back and re-prime some spots after sanding to ensure you have a nice smooth surface to paint over. Then it's up to you whether you use oil or latex paint for the top coats. I use Ben Moore Satin Impervo oil-base, and I love it, though the drying time is at least 16 hours. Two coats should be enough. If the piece is an antique, however, I wouldn't do anything more than clean it up.How do you paint varnished furniture?
If it a high gloss varnish you had better sand it down or the paint won't stay. You can remove varnish with paint stripper and than sand.How do you paint varnished furniture?
The best way to go would be to sand it down to knock the gloss off of the varnish. If you don't, the paint won't stick because of the smooth surface. Once you have it sanded, make sure it is clean. Use a tack cloth to remove the dust from sanding. If you don't mind the smell, use an oil based primer first to cover the varnish/stain. Let it dry for about 24-48 hours and then use an oil based top coat finish. If you prefer, you can use a latex based primer and paint but I would go with two coats of each. The benefit is that it has less odor and dries a lot faster between coats.
you don't
You don't... you have to strip the varnish first.
You cannot successfully paint varnished furniture. No paint products will properly adhere to the varnish. Sand until all gloss/sheen is gone, damp-dust it clean, prime, then apply two coats of paint. For a more durable finish apply at least two coats of a clear top-coat. Paints that are 100% acrylic work great and have almost no odour. Use a primer that says it is good for use on wood -- sometimes if the primer isn't good enough, wood grain will show through like a stain. Good luck!
You can try to sand it down, but that can be hard to do.


Paint it with kilz or any base, then you can paint it. I did it to my daugther bed.