Getting Started: Furniture Painting Essentials

If you’re getting ready to start a furniture painting project and wondering “What do I actually need?” — you’re in the right place.

This page was created to support the Fusion Foundations guide and give you a clear, realistic list of tools and supplies to help you start with confidence — without overbuying or overthinking.

You don’t need everything on this page.
You just need what applies to your project.

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How to Use This Page

• Review this list before starting your project

• Use it alongside the Fusion Foundations guide

• Choose essentials first, then add optional items if needed

• Refer back anytime — this page is meant to support you

If you ever feel unsure, simpler is almost always better.

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Essentials (Most Projects Will Need These)

These are the basics used in the majority of furniture painting projects.

• Paint
  Fusion Mineral Paint
  (Recommended quantity depends on piece size)

• Paint Brush
  One quality brush for detail and edges My #1 brush pick

• Roller + Roller Sleeve
  Rollers are ideal for flat surfaces like drawer fronts and sides 

• Cleaner / Degreaser
  To remove residue, oils, and buildup before painting I prefer TSP Alternative as you do not have to rinse it off

• Sandpaper (120–220 grit)
  For light scuff sanding when needed

• Lint-Free Cloths or Rags
  For cleaning and wiping down surfaces

Note: You don’t need to strip your furniture. Most projects only require cleaning and light scuff sanding.

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Helpful but Optional

These items are useful in certain situations but not required for every project.

• Ultra Grip
  Helpful for slick or questionable surfaces. I use this product when I am questioning whether the paint will adhere or not to a furniture piece. *Tip - if you apply the paint and it starts to give what looks like a laced design, you need ultra grip. 

• Tack Cloth
  To remove dust after sanding

• Drop Cloth or Protective Covering
  For floors and work areas

• Applicator Sponges
  Useful for wax or specialty finishes

These are confidence-builders — not requirements.

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Finishing & Protection Options

Not every piece needs added protection. Choose based on how the furniture will be used. See all our finishes we use.

• Wax
  Soft, hand-rubbed feel
  Ideal for decorative or low-use pieces

• Poly / Protective Topcoat
  Durable protection
  Recommended for tabletops and high-traffic surfaces

• Applicators
  Designed for smooth, even application

Protection should match real life — not fear.

Here's our full checklist!

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From the Studio: A Quick Reminder

One of the most common mistakes beginners make is buying too much before starting.

You don’t need:

• Every brush

• Every product

• Every finish option

Start with the essentials, follow the process in the guide, and add only what your piece actually needs.

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Want to Simplify the Process?

If you’d prefer to skip the guesswork, I’ve created a studio-approved kit that pairs perfectly with the Fusion Foundations guide.

Each kit is curated to include the tools and supplies commonly used for beginner projects.

👉 Beginner Starter Kit 

Want the full step-by-step process?
Fusion Foundations walks you through prep, painting, and finishing so you can start with confidence.

👉 Fusion Foundations Guide

These are optional — the guide works on its own — but it's a great way to start with confidence.

 

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Need Help Choosing?

If you’re unsure which supplies are right for your piece, I’m always happy to help.

You can:

• Reach out with questions

• Book a consultation

• Visit us in-store (by appointment only please)

You don’t have to figure this out alone.

— Shannon
Soleil & Sage

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Transparency & Attribution

This resource supports the Fusion Foundations guide and references official product demonstrations provided by Fusion Mineral Paint. All Fusion product demonstrations remain the intellectual property of Fusion. This page provides curated recommendations and guidance to support your furniture painting projects.