If you’re working on a desk or dresser, remove the drawers and take off any handles or hardware on the exterior surface.
If the furniture was previously painted, be sure to sand the paint off completely. [3] X Expert Source Andres MatheuCommercial Painter Expert Interview. 28 July 2020. Avoid using an electric sander since you could break the bamboo. Bamboo has a slippery surface, so your paint won’t stick to it unless you sand the furniture.
You can buy hand brushes from hardware stores, or you can use the one that came with your dustpan if you have one. Avoid using a stiff-bristled or abrasive brush since you could scratch the bamboo and leave marks on the furniture.
The brush attachment will wipe off the sawdust without damaging or scratching the bamboo. If your vacuum doesn’t have a brush attachment, you can buy one online or try using a crevice attachment.
Avoid getting the bamboo dripping wet since it could cause lasting damage.
You can buy drop cloths from your local hardware store. If you don’t have a drop cloth, you can set the piece of furniture on a large sheet of cardboard instead.
You can buy safety glasses and face masks from your local hardware store. If you’re working in an indoor area, opt for a full respirator instead of a face mask since it will protect you from fumes better.
Oil-based spray primer is similar to spray paint, but it creates a base coat so the paint adheres better and has a solid color. You can buy it from your local paint supply or hardware store.
Test spraying the primer on your drop cloth or a piece of cardboard first to ensure it sprays evenly. Sometimes, the primer may clog and spray unevenly the first time you use it. If you don’t apply primer before you start painting, the color won’t stick on your furniture as well and the surface will look uneven. [12] X Expert Source Andres MatheuCommercial Painter Expert Interview. 28 July 2020.
Primer drying time may vary, so check the can you’re using to see how long you should wait.
You can also use a sanding sponge instead if you have trouble getting a good grip on the sandpaper.
You may also brush or vacuum the dust if you want.
You can buy enamel spray paint from a hardware or paint supply store. Enamel spray paint works for both indoor and outdoor bamboo furniture.
It’s okay if you can still see some of the primer through the first coat of paint. Always work in thin layers since they’ll dry faster and make the color look consistent across the entire piece of furniture.
Drying time between coats may vary depending on the kind of spray paint you have, so always check the can you’re using to find out how long they recommend you wait.
Usually, it will take 2–3 coats of spray paint to finish your piece.
