Let's Paint the Crib Red - Or maybe white....

I got an email the other day asking about my thoughts on painted furniture. The Mommy-to-be wanted to use pieces of furniture that had been in her family and her husband's nursery but wanted to paint it all to look more uniform. I think it is a great idea to use things that are special to you - or use things you already have to save money - but it can be a challenge to paint furniture. Here are some thoughts and tips I have:

• First, not everything has to match. I love a dresser painted in a different color than the rest of the room. Go for the same neutral color for most of the pieces, then pop with a pretty light blue or sage green
• Try painting the drawer fronts a different color. It will add interest and make your dresser look super custom.
  

• Change out hardware to tie everything together. Putting the same drawer knobs on everything will help pull the look together. Check out Hobby Lobby for unique drawer pulls that look like they came from Anthropologie but at 1/4 the price
• Be sure to use the right type of paint. Ask a professional at a paint store what you will need. If the furniture is old, you may want to bring a drawer or piece so they can see it. Painting over old enamel paint doesn't always work that well. Believe me - I have done it
• Painted painted brown just doesn't look that great. Again, I have tried. It just looks cheesey. If you want to do brown, try painting the drawer fronts a different color, like off white. That way it doesn't look like you were trying to paint it to look like wood, it looks like you painted it on purpose.

Newport Cottages makes beautiful painted furniture that also costs a fortune. However, their website is a great resource for paint color ideas and they have some great 2 tone furniture. Scroll through their selection and color samples for some adorable choices - just don't fall in love unless your budget is unlimited!