Furniture Rehab - Can I paint futon frame??

[Kate and Pete]

DH and I have a wooden armed futon frame in our living room. I'm thinking that I'd like to paint it a dark color to match the rest of our furniture...can I do that? And if so, what do I need to do? What kind of paint do I use? The frame looks like wood that has been stained - so do I sand it first? I want to paint it a dark mahogany-ish color...

 

[jodifla]

DH and I have a wooden armed futon frame in our living room. I'm thinking that I'd like to paint it a dark color to match the rest of our furniture...can I do that? And if so, what do I need to do? What kind of paint do I use? The frame looks like wood that has been stained - so do I sand it first? I want to paint it a dark mahogany-ish color...

Yes, you can paint it. I normally use latex paint for furniture. Sanding first is important (the paint needs something to grab on to.)
Start with a rougher sandpaper, then move on to a smoother sandpaper. Surface should feel smooth to the touch before you start painting. And wipe it down with cheesecloth to get all the sanding dust out.

This reminds me....my new dining room table is beckoning to be painted...and I need to repaint the secretary in the hallway!

 

[lost*in*cyberspace]

I highly recommend painting with a primer before painting the final color and after sanding.

 

[Perditamarie]

I repainted some headboards and cheated on the sanding with liquid sandpaper. Worked great, but must work in WELL ventilated area!

 

[Kate and Pete]

Thanks for the tips! Now I have next weekend's project...