Ultimate List of DIY Furniture Renovation Tools You Actually Need

My Tried-and-True Furniture Makeover Tools and Supplies

I’m sharing my go-to tools for DIY furniture renovations to help you start your project off right! This guide focuses on the essentials that actually work—no wasting money on stuff you don’t need. Just the tools and supplies you need to make your furniture makeover a success!


Just a quick heads-up: Everything in this post reflects my genuine opinions and recommendations, but it’s not a substitute for professional advice. To keep this content free, I use ads and include affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.


DIY Furniture Renovation Essential Tools

Here are the must-have tools I swear by for DIY furniture makeovers. These essentials make things easier, so you can focus on building your skills and getting the results you’ve been dreaming of!

01. Cleaning Cloths

cloth cleaning rags

These paint and cleaning rags are an absolute must! I love them because they’re the perfect thickness for cleaning up spills, wiping down surfaces, or applying stains. Plus, they’re super versatile—you can rinse and reuse them, but if they get too messy, you can just toss them guilt-free.

02. Degreaser

Krud Kutter degreaser

Krud Kutter gets the job done every time! It’s hands-down the best for tackling surfaces that are always dirtier than you’d expect. It cuts through layers of dirt and grime with ease, leaving your piece clean and ready for the next step.

03. Drill Set

Hart DIY tool set

This drill set is a must-have for beginners! It’s lightweight, budget-friendly, and includes everything you need to dive into DIY projects. The battery life is amazing (which is a lifesaver because, let’s be real, I always forget to charge it). I’ve had mine for years, and it’s still going strong!

04. Scraper

scraper

This scraper is a game-changer! I love it for its sharp edge that makes removing gunk a breeze without damaging the wood. Plus, it’s super handy and doubles as the perfect tool for popping open paint cans!

05. Paint Stripper

multi-strip paint stripper

After years of furniture makeovers, I finally splurged on this paint stripper, and WOW—it’s a total game-changer. Just apply, wait, and prepare to be amazed as the paint comes off like soft butter. It’s seriously that good!

06. Mineral Spirits

mineral spirits

Washing with mineral spirits is an absolute must for removing any leftover paint stripper and making your sandpaper last so much longer. Trust me, it’s a small step that has a big impact!

07. Sander

random orbital sander

I love this random orbital sander—the functionality for the price is unbeatable. With adjustable speed settings and a dust collection bag, it’s super versatile and gets the job done smoothly, making sanding a total breeze!

08. Sandpaper

sandpaper

You’ll need a range of sandpaper for the best results. Start with something coarse, like 60 or 80 grit, and work your way up through 120, 220, 320, and beyond for that ultra-smooth finish.

09. Painting Supplies

angled paint brush

You’ll definitely need a brush and roller for painting! The short-handle angled brush is perfect for those precise spots, while this roller (I find this one to be the perfect size and nap) ensures a smooth, even finish on larger areas.

10. Primer

Zinsser primer

This primer is the absolute best! It has amazing adhesion to prevent chipping and covers wood grain and tannins like no other, ensuring lasting results and giving you the perfect base for your paint.

11. Paint or Stain

Fusion mineral paint

I’ve used all kinds of paint on my furniture makeovers, and I’m a firm believer that the right prep makes all the difference—you don’t need fancy furniture paint! My go-tos are Behr Scuff Defense and Fusion Mineral Paint. Both give amazing results without the need for anything too fussy.

12. Sealer

wood sealer

Sealing furniture was the bane of my existence… until I found this! No streaks, no frustration. I absolutely love the matte finish—it gives a flawless, protected look without all the fuss!


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DIY furniture renovation dresser makeover
cleaner old wood dresser
before and after dresser makeover

Taking on a furniture makeover might seem daunting at first, but with The Ultimate Furniture Makeover Guide, you’ll find it’s not only doable but also incredibly rewarding. 

Imagine the joy of transforming a piece with your own hands, creating something beautiful that reflects your unique style, and gaining the confidence to take on more projects in the future.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your guide here! I can’t wait to see what you create.

Next Steps


With the right tools and products, your furniture makeover can go from daunting to exciting! These are my go-to essentials that have helped me transform countless pieces with ease. Remember, it’s all about having the right prep, the right products, and a little practice. 

I hope you feel more confident about taking on a DIY furniture renovation now that you know the best tools and supplies to use!


xo Amanda email signature

Stop piecing together information from different sources and get everything you need in one place.

Save time, avoid costly mistakes, and achieve the transformation you’ve been dreaming of.

Grab your copy of the Ultimate Furniture Makeover Guide.


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