Recycling antique furniture, and restoring it to reproduce its original luster not only keeps furniture out of the landfill, it also saves trees from being used to produce new furniture. Antique furniture is made from better quality wood that will likely outlast new furniture purchases; they are also often less expensive than new pieces. Additionally, most new furniture includes particle board pieces. Particle board requires powerful synthetic glue which off gasses harmful chemicals into the air for years, which is harmful to your health, and the environment.

Steps to Restoring

The first step in restoring an antique piece of furniture is to sand off the outer layer of paint, as well as any imperfections. Choose to sand down the furniture, instead of using paint thinner which is full of toxic fumes. Also be sure to wear a mask when sanding so you don't inhale any of the particles which are released.

The second step is to apply a new, eco-friendly primer as a bottom coat. Primer protects wood from conventional wear and tear, including stains. The use of a primer also insures a smoother paint finish. Be sure to choose a water-based primer, as it is much less toxic than its oil-based counter-parts.

Note: water-based primer should only be used with water-based paint.

Finally, paint or stain your antique to your preference. Be sure to choose a low- or zero-VOC, water-based paint. Also take care to paint in a uniform direction--this will produce a consistent texture.

Paints

Water-based paints allow for easy cleanup with soap and water. They have a low odor during application, and none after. They also do not produce any off-gassing. Water-based paints are not considered hazardous waste, which allows for easy disposal after the project is completed. There are three types of water-based paint: natural, zero VOC, and low VOC.

Natural paints are made from natural, raw ingredients such as water, plant oil and resins, natural minerals and bees' wax. Natural paints are safest for both your health and the environment. Zero VOC paints contain VOCs in a level of 5 grams per liter or fewer, while low level VOC paints can have up to 200 grams per liter, although most have fewer than 50. When purchasing a zero or low level VOC paint be sure to check the label--the VOC level will be listed on the product. Try to buy paint with the lowest VOC level possible--look for products approved by Green Seal, which have a VOC level of less than 50 grams per liter.

Tips

-Read the label. Look for paints with low VOC levels and a high percentage of solids--which means the paint has less volatile chemicals. Also look for products that are not registered as EPA, OSHA, or DOT--these products are harmful and their use must be monitored.

-Only buy what you need. Calculate the surface area you will be painting before purchasing paint. One gallon of paint covers 400 square feet.

-Choose a natural brush cleaner such as turpentine.

-Never sand dry lead paint.

-Store paint cans upside down. This prevents air from getting in and thickening the paint.