This project was sponsored by HomeRight, however all opinions are 100% mine.
About a year ago, a friend and I went out one Saturday morning thrifting. We got to the first stop, but it was wasn’t opened yet. However, outside was a bookshelf. A bookshelf that wasn’t anything to write home about – except for the doors and the hardware.
The bookshelf had a price tag of $40. I had no need for a bookshelf – but those doors…and that hardware.
We drove down to another thrift store until the other one opened. Upon returning to the thrift store with the bookshelf, there was a woman eyeing my the bookshelf. The store still hadn’t opened yet. The woman was eyeing the bookshelf quite intensely. As the store doors opened, I decided I couldn’t let this bookshelf go. So I did what anyone else would do in my situation. I did a quick side shuffle or two and ran through the doors as soon as the owner opened them and proclaimed I would be buying the bookshelf – probably a bit louder than necessary.
And then the bookshelf sat in my garage for the better part of a year and I kind of started to feel a little bad for stealing it away from the other lady when I hadn’t even figured out to do with it.
I got over that real quick though after I realized it would be perfect in the Circus’ new room.
This was such a simple makeover, but some serious BAM as well with that bold yellow.
Simple Bookshelf Makeover
This post contains affiliate links for your shopping convenience. Click here to read my full disclosure policy.
- HomeRight FinishMax Paint Sprayer
- Primer (I used a regular latex primer and a liquid sprayer primer to degloss and clean the piece.)
- Paint Color of your choice (I used this yellow hue.)
- Tack Cloth
- Topcoat (I used this one.)
Step 1:
Before painting anything, I cleaned this bad boy up. I sprayed Ready, a liquid spray primer, on the piece to remove dust, dirt and dead bugs that the bookshelf had housed in the garage.
Step 2:
This bookshelf had some laminate in some places. To make sure my paint stuck to those spots well, I gave the entire bookshelf a coat of Kilz Primer before painting the piece yellow.
It’s important to strain the paint before putting it in your sprayer.
Even if it is brand new paint, I suggest straining it. I just picked up a cheap strainer at TJMaxx and use it as my paint strainer. After straining the paint, add water to thin it. The Finish Max comes with an instruction manual that tells you how to thin your paint. It also comes with a handy little tool to use so you know when it’s thinned enough.
I’m borrowing this image from a previous post as I neglected to take a picture of me using my handy little tool during this project.
After adding water to the paint and mixing, simply dip the viscosity cup into the paint and count how many seconds it takes the paint to run out of the cup. For latex paints, properly thinned paints should run out in 25-40 seconds. If you’re in that timeframe, you’re good. If you’re not, add more water.
After thinning your paint properly, spray the paint onto your piece standing about 5-10 inches away from the piece you are painting. (If you’ve never used a paint sprayer before, there’s a complete how-to here.) Clean out your paint sprayer afterwards.
Step 3:
After letting the primer dry, load your paint sprayer up with your choice of paint color. Once more, remember to strain and thin the paint. Step back and spray the paint onto your furniture.
I did two coats of yellow.
I laid out my actual shelves and doors on sawhorses and tables to paint them.
Step 4:
After your piece is dry, I suggest following up with a topcoat to help protect the finish. I used a semi-gloss polycrylic, which actually doesn’t have to be thinned, but should be strained before putting it into your paint sprayer. I did one coat of the topcoat.
Isn’t it adorable? Of course, I haven’t filled it with all her books yet, I just wanted a few on there for now to give you an idea of how it would look.
I do like the idea of mixing in the stuffed animals with the books – makes it a little more decorative.
I can’t believe I just referred to stuffed animals as decorative. I guess that’s what happens when your kid owns more of them than an actual zoo has animals.
I used Bar Keepers Friend to clean up the hardware.
What do you think of the yellow? Is it too bold for you?
You might also want to see…
Disclosure: This post was a collaboration with HomeRight, however all opinions and running ahead of people to buy something I want is 100% mine.
Jenise @ DIYFunIdeas says
Lovely job!
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
Thanks, Jenise!
A says
Hello. I think the yellow is perfect against the neutral walls and carpet. Go big or go home as they say. The paint sprayer is very cool. If I had one, I would paint a pair of dressers that need updating!
marty says
Would love to have a sprayer!!
Antoinette de Janasz Baxter says
We will be starting construction on our dream home in a couple of months. As a former faux finish artist, I will be refinishing a lot of furniture for our home and the Finish Max paint sprayer would be a Godsend!!!
kimberly walsh says
I think the yellow is just fabulous darhling! 🙂
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
Why thank you, dahling!
Lyn W. says
Love those doors.
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
Me too! Thanks, Lyn!
Lynda says
We actually have a compressor for spray painting – but the sprayer you use looks so much easier than hauling out this long hoses. I think I need one.
I LOVE the yellow.
Danielle says
I love the doors! You find the best furniture. How often do you go to a thrift store and leave with nothing? I never seem to find anything good that is reasonably priced. Also, the yellow is the most perfect yellow.
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
Girl, I visit thrift stores waaaaaayyyyyyy too much!! haha! There are lots of times I leave with nothing at all, trust me! It’s funny, it’s like I have good “seasons” of thrifting. Like from December – February, I was killing it in the thrifting department, but it’s died out a bit now.
Pam S says
Too bold? NOOOOOO!!!! That is definitely, officially adorable! Lucky little Circus 🙂
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
Thanks, Pam! I concur! 😉
Erin Prohaska says
I would paint a desk and some book shelves that I’ve been meaning to update for some time! Thanks for the opportunity!
Missy says
I have so many projects that would benefit from having a paint sprayer. I think the yellow bookcase with the navy is going to look terrific!
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
Me too, Missy!! I cannot wait to see it against those navy walls!
Maree Sperle says
I am wanting to redo my entryway and would like to repaint a bench and add a small side table.
Ann Wright says
This would be so helpful as we are in the midst of renovations!
lisa says
Super Cute Bookshelf! I love the yellow – so fresh to see a bright sunny color.
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
Thanks, Lisa! I love the fun color too!
Lisa Nay says
I have a cabinet that I would spray first. Then I would spray my desk and two bookcases in my craft room.After that, I have a couple of side tables that could use a new coat of paint. I need this sprayer!!! My life will not be complete u til I get one!!!
Stacey says
My dining room table, chairs and china hutch……no stinkin’ small job!!!!
Kaye Newman says
I would paint my kitchen cabinets and bathroom.
Nornee says
We inherited this semi-ugly corner cabinet with our house. It would be fun to change it up a bit with a bright color!
Susan says
We’ve been in our house 6 years now–so we are ready to repaint! I would love to win to get this done faster.
Virginia says
I am just learning how to cover my rattan chair seats and would love to have a spray painter for this project.
Marsha Anderson-Corns says
I’d use it to paint lawn furniture that needs refreshing!
laura says
Can you tell me if the sprayer works with oil based enamel paint? I am going to do my kitchen cabinets but want to use the oil based enamel bc It hardens rock solid and lasts forever.
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
Hi Laura! It does work with oil based paint. You do still have to thin it, but with whatever thinning agent the paint can states to use.
Lisa says
We’re planning to do TONS of painting in the next year…the entire house…and some furniture along the way. You’re such an inspiration :0) That sprayer would heaven-sent!
Meg @ Green With Decor says
Those doors are awesome! I’ve been dreaming of a paint sprayer and would use it for everything 🙂
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
Thanks, Meg!
Helen Holley says
Love the bright color and just so you know…. You’re the one who inspired me to buy my HomeRight sprayer! Great job on the bookshelf!
Helen H
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
Awesome, Helen! I hope you are loving it!
Susanne says
I would totally use the sprayer to paint my dining room table and chairs!
A pox on all shiny queen anne furniture:)
Kellie Smith says
Bravo!!! This is gorgeous!! I love that yellow!! Those doors really were worth that two step you had to do…
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
Thanks, Kellie!!! I’m digging the yellow too!
Debbie Williams says
So handy!
Kelsey says
I would love to try my hand at painting our dressers this summer!
Elizabeth says
Love this! It is so dramatic. Thanks for including your steps to painting, I would like to get that sprayer to paint a ton of furniture waiting… Have a wonderful weekend!
Rhonda Godwin says
I have refinished several projects by hand. It would be so nice to have a sprayer. Love the bookcase.
Moye' says
I would really love to have one of these! I’ve wanted one for quite some time. Thanks for the opportunity and I love how your project turned out!
Sherri says
That turned out awesome, I love the bright yellow. Can’t wait to see it in her room!
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
Me either, Sherri!
Trina says
All my outside soffit needs to be redone. It’s spring, so we love sitting outside and the soffits are rotting. Embarrassing! My hubs will be DIYing all the soffits and painting the house trim and carport. WE NEED THAT SPRAYER! *please*
I think the yellow is just right for her room. She seems to have a sunny disposition. It just fits her.
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
Girl, we’re going to have to paint soffit at our new place too. I can’t even thinking about it without stressing out some.
Julie says
Jenna, another FINE job you’ve done!! The bookcase looks totally awesome and love the color and think of all the things this unit will be able to hold! =) Recently I was in a resale shop and there was an assortment of furniture pieces that were priced to go! Although I didn’t need anything, the wheels were turning re how these pieces could be used, how to paint and the new life they would have should someone view these as me. Even at garage sales I am encouraging people to buy the item and do this and that to them. Sometimes there is a sale!
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
You’re supposed to let me know when you find those amazing pieces that are priced to go, Julie!! haha!
Amy Z. says
I’d love to use the sprayer to paint our cabinets!
Theresa Cooper says
The bookcase came out beautiful. Would sure like to try that.
thanks
Samantha Pulliam says
Ohhhhh my, what would I want paint with this HomeRight Paint Sprayer?!?!
A better question might be..What WOULDN’T I paint with the HomeRight Paint Sprayer?!?!
I’d paint everything I could get my hands on!!!! ????
Patty says
Love love love that yellow, so bright and cheerful. My basement is so dark I would love to spray paint the whole thing white and do cabinets in this yellow and all the shelving. I think I need that great paint sprayer. I had one ,but it died several years ago, and one of the worst things you can do is not strain your paint, I always used old panty hose to strain my paint and stain and sealer, a painter taught me that 30 years ago.
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
Girlfriend – you (and that painter!) are genius!!! I would have never thought to strain the paint with panty hose!
Seana Murphy says
That yellow is amazeballs. It really makes the detail in the doors stand out.
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
Thanks, Seana! I think so too!
Elicia P says
I would most likely end up painting a lot of projects that I want to start. Starting with my lingerie dresser I stripped a couple years ago.
Cheryl says
I would give my outdoor furniture a facelift.
Nicole Vosburgh says
I would love to paint my son’s very old furniture for his room!
Danielle says
I love painting furniture. A paint sprayer would take my hobby to the next level! I would paint ALL THE THINGS!
Linda Kish says
I have some bookcases and a file cabinet that I would start with.
Sara says
Yellow is so adorable!! What a bold and beautiful choice.
kayla bowe says
Yes i would paint everything with this! Thanks for the opportunity.
Darlene Cruz says
I want to paint my door, using a brush leaves brush strokes.
Anita Duvall says
I would really like to tackle a couple of shelving units that are in my home. Who knows, maybe even the kitchen cabinets.
Michelle says
I love this color! I have an old secretary from my grandmothers house. Its not an antique and mostly veneer but I thought it would look cool painted a bright color. Yellow seems perfect & this sprayer would certainly help. 🙂
Trisha Burgess says
I would paint our kitchen cabinets! They need a makeover!
Elena says
I would paint the bathroom door
Joanne says
I would paint everything! After years of not having time to update my home, I finally feel that I can tackle the kitchen cabinets, walls, and pieces. A paint sprayer is definitely in my future somehow.
Steve Weber says
We would paint our outside patio set!
Sue H. says
I have a dresser I would like to paint. A sprayer would REALLY help!
Christina Moore says
I have an old bedroom suite, I would love to paint. thank you for a great giveaway
Julie Spear says
Jenna that bookshelf turned out AWESOME!!! I am totally going to paint my next piece of furniture yellow!!!! and you know my answer to you question is gonna be the same as always… I would use a Homeright Sprayer to get my furniture stash that’s piled in my garage done TWICE AS FAST!!! until then I’m just stuck goin brushstroke by brushstroke….sigh. AND it is almost Spring – perfect paint sprayin weather!!!!!
Christina Sparks says
I would paint my office walls, I am going to decorate it with frogs and turtles
Susan M. says
I’m waiting to win a sprayer so that I can finally paint a vintage secretary… maybe this will be my lucky day! Thanks for the opportunity!
Lee mckeon says
I would paint my wooden outdoor furniture!
Kristi C says
I have a desk that needs repainted.
Laura S says
I would paint my kitchen cabinets. They’re currently varnished pine and I’d love the clean look of white cabinets.
Lorena Keech says
We have a round coffee table that I love but which has seen better days. I’d like to paint it.
Julie says
I have a couple of chairs I want to paint this would be fabulous..
Jill C says
I like the yellow – its fun! If i won, I would paint all the trim in my house… all.of.it! ☺
Arielle says
I would use this to paint our finished basement.
Angelica says
I would paint sooo much. We’re replacing the doors in our house, I have a desk and a table that need painted, I’m making our kitchen cabinets and those will need painted. I would put that sprayer to work!
Bethany says
I love that color! and I would love to own a paint sprayer and take it to everything in the house!
Jeanne Coulombe says
You did a outstanding job on the shelf I love it! The first thing I would paint is my shutters and then oh boy I have all kinds for treasures I could paints. Thank you for the chance ☺
Michelle StPierre says
I love the yellow, it is so cheerful! If I won I would finish one of my many thrift store finds. I think the one I would do first would be my daughters day bed, it’s white and she really wants a purple bed , so this would be perfect. Thanks for the chance & good luck everyone!
Benny Sequeira says
Would like to try it on the kitchen cabinets.
trisha kilpatrick says
My boys desks need a makeover. I would paint them.
Barbara Masterson says
I would use it to paint a Craigslist find. I bought a glass top table and chair set for my dining room. Desperately needs painting and have been wondering HOW. This would be the perfect solution.
fabiola garcia says
I need to paint my renter kitchen cabinets very badly. In need of one of this.
Colleen Bennett says
Great Job on the Bookcase. I need one of these Sprayers so bad have so many projects to do and many would be so much easier with a Sprayer then painting with a brush. Homeright looks like it is a great product.
Taylor Closet says
I would paint my old mid century furniture that I found near dumpster, which I have a ton of pieces that need the life of paint.
Edye says
I would paint my book shelf 🙂
Blessings,
Edye
mary ballerin says
Love the yellow! But those doors – I’m salivating 😉 I have two older shelving units in my garage but they have Mediterranean style doors. Haven’t decided what I’ll do with those yet. Paint would look OK but I don’t know if I want to paint these. Lucky score, Jenna.
Maryann Royster says
I’m hoping to be moving into a new house and I bet every room will need repainting.
Paol Trenny says
I would paint my backyard fence.
Lisa Waggle says
Lawn furniture, a friend was moving and gave me several pieces. I could go on with a list….thanks for the chance.
Karen Propes says
I love the bookshelf !!!! I have some bookcases I want to re-do for my quilting/craft room. Doing something like this would really make them fit in the room decor so much better. Thanks for the tips and Idea. Love to win a sprayer, this would really save me some time on them and quite a few other projects just waiting to be done.
Sandra Watts says
I need to repaint all of my rooms in my house. Just got the outside done end of last year.
Jr Frugalmom says
I would paint our headboard white, I would paint our youngest boys’ bunk bed blue and a couple of bookshelves white.
Jenn H says
Id love to do our cabinets! our kitchen seriously needs a pick me up!
Lesley F says
I have a bookshelf that I still have not finished
Fara says
I want to paint ALL.THE.THINGS! No seriously, there are so many things I haven’t painted because I want a paint sprayer.
Cindy Peterson says
My fence needs a fresh coat of paint. It is so much easier to spray than brush this large project.
Lyndsey R. says
I would refinish and repaint and old mule chest I have. You did a great job on that bookcase by the way!
Shannon says
I would start with a desk that i’ve been wanting to paint.
Tanya White says
We need to repaint our deck so I would use it for that.
Margot C says
I have two bedside tables that I want to paint red!
Amy Deeter says
i would paint my bedroom stand with the Finish Max sprayer
sarah mayer says
The main hallway needs a good painting as does our front door
Lisa Carr says
So…we bought our house 18 years ago. We did a quick paint job when we first moved in.3 boys later, we haven’t re-painted. I’d use the sprayer to paint as much of our home as possible.
Angela Cash says
I have numerous pieces that I would love to paint. The ones I would most like to spray are a cast iron patio set that belonged to my grandmother.
Juana Esparza says
I would paint my porch.
Brandon Sparks says
I would paint the walls in the bedroom and also have some chairs that need painted
Annette says
I’m in the middle or remodeling my house and just about everything that can be painted, will be (re)painted. Between the walls, the cabinets, the doors, and shutters, this would come in handy.
Heather says
I would repaint a bed headboard that I have first. Its still pretty, just needs a good sanding, paint and love.
Thomas Murphy says
I would paint my bathroom.
Laurie Nykaza says
I have a wooden dresser that needs painting it would look great in a color like gray
Virginia says
Beautiful! I love the yellow.
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
Thanks, Virginia! Me too – it’s a new favorite I think!
[email protected] says
What a stunning transformation! I love that colour – I have a soft spot for yellow 🙂
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
Thanks, Jelica! I am definitely feeling some yellow these days!
Gloria Patterson says
NO …… I want a yellow bookcase. BEAUTIFUL
Jenna says
haha!! Thanks, Gloria!