Functional office furnishings

Posted on: 15 November 2016

If you've got a metal bed frame that doesn't fit with the design of your room, looks a little tired, or simply isn't the right colour, then a new paint job is a great choice. Painting metal frames isn't as tricky as you might imagine, and it's much cheaper than buying a new frame altogether. Painting's also perfect if you've got a metal frame with a design that you love, but just aren't keen on the colour. You'll need to disassemble the bed frame, prepare it for painting, and then choose the right painting method depending on the type of frame you're working with. Read on for all the details.

Take apart the bed

Taking your bed apart might seem like a daunting process, especially if you've had it for years. If the bed is complex to assemble, it's helpful to snap a few photos of it before taking apart, to refer back to later. You should also make notes on any tricky details during the disassembly process. You should first remove the mattress and box spring, and store these out of the way. Then carefully remove all of the screws and bolts, keeping in a small container to make sure none are lost. Once the screws are removed, you should easily be able to take the bed apart. Move it to a clear outside area where you can paint without worrying about mess.

Clean and sand the frame

Wash the bed frame with warm, soapy water. This will remove all residue and ensures that paint will stick properly. Using a brush will help you to scrub off any dirt that is stuck firmly, and you'll be able to use it clean in small crevices - especially important on bed frames with a detailed design. If any dirt refuses to budge, try soaking it in hot water for an hour or two.

Once the bed is completely clean and dry, you'll want to sand the entire frame. This removes any existing paint and makes sure that the surface is rough enough for new paint to adhere to. Use coarse sandpaper on areas that are rusty or covered in layers of paint. After sanding, clean the frame with a damp cloth to remove dust.

Choose spray or brush painting

Spray painting is the easiest way to get even coverage all over your bed frame. You should purchase a paint that is designed to cover metal to ensure it coats the surface well. You'll need to apply several coats of paint for the smoothest finish, and should let each layer dry before applying the next.

For bedframes with a lot of detail, brush painting will allow better coverage. You should invest in a variety of brushes of different sizes to ensure they fit into all the small gaps on your frame. Apply several coats for a solid finish, or stick to one or two for a more distressed look.