Interview with Karen Hughes
Q. I’ve inherited an old sideboard from an aunt, and though I love it, it doesn’t go with anything in my home — should I paint it?
A. Most people are far too quick to take a paint brush to pre-loved furniture. Often, it’s the little imperfections that add character to a piece. In this case however, you may want to paint it to better suit your home. Here’s how: first remove all the handles and hinges, strip any existing paint or varnish and sand it down. Give it a good clean and once dry, apply the primer and paint. If there’s a grain in the wood, apply the paint in the direction of the grain. To give it an antique look again, simply lightly sand some of the raised edges, corners or legs to give the appearance of wear and tear. Finish with a coat of bees wax to protect the wood.
