Whether you are restoring a computer desk or you are just painting one, there are a few things to consider before you begin the process. First, you should decide whether or not you want to paint the drawers. If you choose to paint them, make sure you take the time to choose a paint that will stick well. If you want to make your desk more durable, you should also decide if you want to add drawer liners. You can also enhance the look of your desk by adding new hardware.
Once you have decided to refinish your computer desk, the first thing you want to do is clean the surface. You can use an all-purpose cleaner or a heavy-duty cleaning solution. If you have stubborn dirt or stains, you can use a chemical stripper. Using a stripper can make the sanding process easier. Make sure you allow the stripper to sit for the recommended time before moving on to the next step. If you need to use a chemical stripper, use one that you can wash away with water.
Next, you will want to remove any loose paint or varnish. This can be done using a putty knife or by using a chemical stripper. It’s important to let the stripper sit for the recommended time to allow the paint to come off.
Once the paint or varnish is removed, you need to sand the desk. Sanding will remove any paint drips and high areas. Using a fine or medium sandpaper will help you sand the desk smoother. Sanding with the grain is important, particularly for corners. The grain will reveal the smoothness of the wood. If the desk is rough, you can use a foam roller to help you smooth out the paint. This will also help you cover up any gaps or bare spots. You can use a brush for detailed work.
After sanding, you will want to let the desk dry. During the curing period, you should not place heavy objects on the desk. You can also add a protective wax to the surface to help protect it. This will help keep it looking beautiful for years to come. You can also highlight interesting details with a coat of wax. You can find waxes in coloured or clear finishes.
Once you are done refinishing your computer desk, you can finish it off by applying a coat of wax. This will help protect the surface from fingerprints and make it easier to clean. It will also add a glossy finish that will last for years to come. You can use a lint free cloth to apply the wax.
If you want a more traditional look, you can apply a polyurethane sealer. This will give your desk a durable finish that will last for years. Polyurethane will also add a glossy finish that will help protect the desk from scratches. It is important to stir the product before applying it. The thickness of the coat will determine how durable it will be. You can add more coats if you need to. However, you will need to wait about two weeks for the desk to completely harden.
