One quart of paint will usually cover a standard dresser with two coats.
I’ve painted dozens of dressers and furniture pieces over the years, so I know readers want a clear, practical answer to how much paint for a dresser. This guide breaks down real measurements, paint coverage, primer needs, and step-by-step estimates so you can buy the right amount, avoid wasted paint, and get a smooth finish on your dresser.
Quick rules and coverage basics you should know
Start with the paint can numbers. Most latex or acrylic paints list coverage near 350 to 400 square feet per gallon. That equals about 87 to 100 square feet per quart. How much paint for a dresser depends on surface area, number of coats, paint type, and whether you prime first.
- Typical paint coverage per gallon: 350–400 sq ft.
- Typical paint coverage per quart: 87–100 sq ft.
- Typical dresser surface to paint: 15–30 sq ft (front, sides, top; drawers included).
These figures mean one quart often covers a dresser with two coats, but larger or highly porous pieces may need more. Below I show a simple method to measure and calculate exactly how much paint for a dresser you need.
Measure your dresser: the simple math to calculate surface area
Measuring first saves money and time. Here’s a clear way to measure and get square footage.
- Measure the front face: width x height.
- Measure each side panel: depth x height, then double it.
- Measure the top: width x depth.
- Add extra for drawer interiors, trims, or exposed backs if you plan to paint them.
Example calculation for a medium dresser:
- Width: 36 inches (3.0 ft)
- Height: 30 inches (2.5 ft)
- Depth: 18 inches (1.5 ft)
Area calculations:
- Front = 3.0 ft x 2.5 ft = 7.5 sq ft
- Sides = 2 x (1.5 ft x 2.5 ft) = 7.5 sq ft
- Top = 3.0 ft x 1.5 ft = 4.5 sq ft
- Total painted area = 19.5 sq ft
If you plan two coats, multiply by 2: 39 sq ft total painted area. Divide by quart coverage (about 90 sq ft) and you see one quart is enough. That is how much paint for a dresser in many common cases.
How paint type and primer affect how much paint for a dresser
The kind of paint changes your estimate.
- Latex or acrylic: Good all-purpose choice, 350–400 sq ft/gal. One quart usually enough for one dresser.
- Chalk paint: Thick and covers well, often needs less sanding and typically one quart covers a small dresser with two coats.
- Oil-based paint: Higher build and sometimes requires primer. Coverage similar to latex, but drying times are longer.
- Primer: If you need good adhesion or are covering dark or stained wood, plan for one coat of primer plus paint. Primer coverage is similar to paint; one quart of primer may be needed for quick adhesion on one dresser.
If you use a stain-blocking primer or heavy-bodied paint, you may need extra product. For unusual colors (covering dark with light), expect an extra coat, which increases how much paint for a dresser you’ll use.
Step-by-step estimate: how to calculate exactly how much paint for a dresser
Follow these steps to get a precise estimate.
- Measure each surface in inches. Convert to feet by dividing by 12.
- Multiply width x height for each surface to get square feet.
- Add all surfaces for total square feet.
- Multiply by number of coats (usually 2).
- Divide by coverage per gallon (use 350–400 sq ft for accuracy) or per quart (about 90 sq ft).
- Round up slightly to allow touch-ups and absorption.
Example: 20 sq ft surface x 2 coats = 40 sq ft. 40 ÷ 90 = 0.44 quarts. Round up to 1 quart to be safe. That shows how much paint for a dresser in a typical scenario.
Practical tips, tools, and my personal experience
I’ve refinished dressers using chalk paint, satin acrylic, and spray finishes. Here are lessons I learned.
- Prep saves paint: Sanding and cleaning reduces the number of coats needed. Good prep often cuts how much paint for a dresser you actually use.
- Use primer when switching from dark to light. It avoids extra top coats.
- Consider paint type: Chalk paint hides flaws and can need fewer coats, while thin latex may soak into wood and need more paint.
- Buy a little extra: I always buy one quart even if math says half a quart. It covers touch-ups and mistakes.
- Use quality brushes and rollers: They lay paint more evenly so you use less.
Tools I use:
- Medium-grit sandpaper and a sanding block.
- Tack cloth and mild degreaser.
- High-quality synthetic brush and small foam roller.
- Painter’s tape and drop cloths.
These small choices affect how much paint for a dresser you end up using.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Avoid these traps I’ve seen many DIYers fall into.
- Underestimating coats: Expect at least two top coats for durability.
- Skipping primer on stained or dark wood: You’ll waste paint covering bleed-through.
- Buying paint by color name only: Always check coverage per can.
- Not counting edges and inside drawers: Extras add up.
By avoiding these mistakes, you control how much paint for a dresser you need and save money.
Finishing and sealing: final coats and durability
The final coat matters. A proper topcoat improves wear.
- For latex or acrylic: A water-based poly or satin topcoat boosts durability.
- For chalk paint: Wax or poly sealer prevents scuffs.
- For high-use furniture: Add a protective clear coat; this can add slight additional paint or product needs.
Sealing does not usually change how much paint for a dresser of color coat you need, but it adds product for protection.
Frequently Asked Questions of how much paint for a dresser
How many coats of paint does a dresser typically need?
Most dressers need two coats of paint for good coverage and durability. You may need a third coat if you change from a dark to light color or if the wood is very porous.
Is one quart enough to paint a dresser?
One quart is often enough for a standard dresser with two coats, especially with good prep and primer. Larger dressers or ones with heavy grain may require more than one quart.
Do I need primer before painting a dresser?
Primer is recommended when switching colors, painting over stains, or using a water-based paint on bare wood. Primer improves adhesion and can reduce the number of topcoats, changing how much paint for a dresser you need.
Does chalk paint reduce paint needed for a dresser?
Yes, chalk paint usually covers well and requires less sanding and sometimes fewer coats, which can lower how much paint for a dresser is required. However, you’ll still want a sealer for durability.
Should I paint the inside of drawers and backs?
Painting inside drawers is optional but gives a professional finish. Painting interiors increases how much paint for a dresser you need, so measure these surfaces before buying.
Can I use spray paint for a dresser instead?
Spray paint works well for smooth, even coverage and may reduce drips. It can use more product if you overspray, but it often speeds up work and can change how much paint for a dresser you buy compared to brush-on cans.
Conclusion
Measuring first and understanding coverage are the keys to buying the right amount of paint. For most standard dressers, one quart covers two coats, but size, paint type, and prep needs can change that. Use the step-by-step method above to calculate your exact needs, prime when necessary, and keep a small extra amount for touch-ups.
Take action now: measure your dresser, do the quick math, and pick the right paint and primer. If you have specific dresser dimensions, share them in the comments and I’ll help estimate how much paint for a dresser you’ll need.
