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How to Paint a Piano: A Step-by-Step DIY Makeover Guide

ByStacy Ling Posted on
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Does your piano need a makeover? You can easily transform an old piano into something beautiful by using chalk paint or mineral paint. Learn how to paint a piano with these simple tips.

Giving an old piano a fresh coat of paint isn’t just a DIY project – it’s a serious room transformation. If your inherited, well-loved piano has seen better days, or you’re just ready to ditch the dark wood and inject some major personality into your space, then this is for you.

Trust me, I’ve been there. My own piano was a disaster. The finish was dark, dinged, and absolutely damaged. We’re talking nicks, scratches, missing trim, a broken music rack, and yes, a legendary, permanent sweat mark left by my brother-in-law after an ill-advised post-run rest on the bench. Yuck.

I know what you’re thinking: Paint a piano?! Is she crazy? But the honest truth is, it desperately needed a total makeover. It was time to stop ignoring the eyesore and bring this beautiful instrument back to life.

Want to tackle your own piano transformation? You will be amazed at how simple this process is and how stunning the results are!

As a seasoned DIYer, I’ve tested the best low-prep methods so you don’t have to. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the entire process, specifically using chalk paint or Fusion Mineral Paint, to achieve a gorgeous, durable finish without the extensive, soul-crushing sanding. Ready to create a stunning centerpiece for your home? Let’s get started!

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A brown upright piano with a matching bench sits against a white wall in a room with wooden floors. Above the piano, a large round clock with black numbers and hands hangs on the wall. Sunlight streams in from a nearby window with white curtains, casting gentle light on potential piano painting tips.
Before I applied Fusion mineral paint on the piano.

Why Paint Your Piano?

Painting your piano is a great way to:

  • Personalize: Transform an old or outdated instrument into a unique centerpiece that reflects your style and complements your home decor.
  • Revitalize: Give new life to a piano with sentimental value that no longer matches your aesthetic.
  • Save Money: Update your interior design affordably without the need for costly replacements.
  • Protect: Shield the wood from damage and preserve its structural integrity.
  • Get Creative: Enjoy a fun, fulfilling DIY project and share the experience with loved ones.

With a fresh coat of paint, your piano can become a cherished piece of furniture that adds both beauty and functionality to your home.

A cozy living room featuring a stone fireplace with a TV mounted above it. There are brown leather sofas, a wooden coffee table, and a side table with plants and décor. Sunlight streams through white curtained windows, illuminating the room and its wooden floor, perfect for reading up on how to paint a piano.
Before painting the piano, the room felt very heavy with both the dark leather couches and piano.

Why I Painted My Piano

Our piano is a family heirloom, filled with memories from my childhood. It holds sentimental value, but it didn’t quite fit the aesthetic of our living room anymore. With its dark wood finish, it felt too heavy alongside our dark brown leather couches.

I didn’t want to get rid of it, so I researched painting it as a way to give it new life. After considering chalk paint, I decided to try Fusion Mineral Paint because of its reputation for ease of use. It doesn’t require sanding and has a built-in topcoat, which was very appealing!

While I usually prefer testing new techniques on smaller projects, I felt confident enough to take on the piano, especially with my experience painting furniture and other home decor. Plus, I’d had great success with chalk paint on projects like my kitchen cabinets and a vintage bench, so I was excited to see what I could do with the piano.

A hand in a dark sleeve holding a green sanding sponge, prepping a wooden surface that appears to be a furniture piece with a light brown finish. The background is plain and light-colored. For those considering piano painting tips, proper sanding is crucial to achieving a smooth base for painting a piano.
While you don’t need to pre-sand, I did anyway but didn’t put a lot of effort into it. I used a sanding block to lightly scuff up the surface.

How to Paint a Piano: Simple Steps for a Stunning Makeover

While the process to paint the piano was pretty easy, it took a little time to refinish. But no more than a few hours of active time with some drying time in between. The most difficult spot to paint was around the keys. But I grabbed a piece of cardboard to hold them down as I painted along.

Essential Supplies for Painting Your Piano

Whether you paint piano with chalk paint or fusion mineral paint, it is a personal preference. Both work options work really well and minimize the amount of work needed to complete the job.

Here’s what you need to paint a piano.

A wooden upright piano with a closed sheet music stand sits on a hardwood floor, its keys visible. A small rectangular object rests on top of the piano. Light enters the room through a window on the right side, creating an ideal setting for those considering how to paint a piano.
All Sanded!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Painting Your Piano

  • Remove all hardware if you don’t want to get paint on them.
  • Lift bench off the ground to make it easier to paint the legs. I set mine on paint cans that are the same size.
  • Lightly sand the surface to scuff it up.
  • Wipe down the whole piece to clean it up with a dry rag.
  • Start painting! Allow the piece to dry in between coats. Since my piano has such a dark finish, I needed to use three coats of Fusion Mineral Paint.
  • When the piece is dry, open it up to expose the keys. Lightly sand down any areas or drip marks. Then finish painting. I used a piece of corrugated cardboard paper that I had laying around to help paint around the keys.
  • Allow drying for a few days. Then lightly sand the edges to give it a distressed look.
  • Clean the surface with a dry rag or cloth.
  • Then use a damp cloth or damp brush to lightly apply the glaze and wipe off to give it an aged appearance.
  • Allow drying.
  • If you finish the piano with chalk paint, use a finishing wax to seal it.

It’s important to allow the piece to dry for at least 24 hours before lightly distressing it. If you want to distress it. I wanted to distress mine to get that aged look. But that’s a personal preference.

A dark wooden table with four legs, each positioned on top of a tin can of wood finish, stands on a plastic sheet covering a wooden floor. A brown upright piano, possibly awaiting some piano painting tips, is in the background. The scene appears to be in preparation for refinishing the table.
Lift the bench up off the floor with something like paint cans. It will be easier to work on, especially when you paint the legs.
A small wooden table is being painted in a room with a brown wooden piano against the wall. The table rests on paint cans and is partially painted in white and a wood finish. Paintbrushes, paint cans, and a plastic sheet cover the floor around it, providing an ideal setup for painting projects like how to paint a piano.
Painting the piano bench with the first coat of Fusion mineral paint.
A partially painted wooden piano and matching bench with a light coat of white paint showcase a serene space. With light-colored walls, a window with sheer white curtains, and a large clock showing 2:22, the room exudes calmness. Hardwood floors are protected by plastic sheets—a subtle nod to expert piano painting tips in action.
First coat of Fusion Mineral Paint is going on well. A little goes a long way…
A white piano and a matching bench are in the process of being painted, showcasing some effective piano painting tips. The bench is elevated on painter's cans and a plastic sheet is spread underneath to protect the floor. A clock on the wall indicates the time as 9:25. Sunlight filters in through a window.
The piano and bench after the second coat of Fusion Mineral Paint in Raw Silk
A cozy corner featuring a white upright piano with a matching bench, situated against a wall with a large gray clock hanging above it. If you're wondering how to paint a piano, this setup showcases the elegance of such an endeavor. Natural light streams in from two windows with white curtains. A leather couch and wooden chair are nearby, and a potted plant adds greenery.
After painting the piano
A white upright piano with a matching white bench is placed against a wall. A table lamp, a plant, and two decorative candles sit on top of the piano. A large round wall clock hangs above. Sunlight streams in from the left, casting shadows on the floor—perfect lighting if you're considering how to paint a piano.

After Painting the Piano

Doesn’t it look amazing? I love how much lighter it looks! It looks so much lighter and brighter in this corner of the living room. This is how I decorated it shortly after pulling the space back together. I just added a few items I have laying around.

What do you think?

And that’s it! What a transformation right? Painting the piano was not very difficult but was a little more time-consuming than I expected. So give yourself about half a day for active time with some drying time in between.

It’s been really fun decorating the painted piano for the seasons. Here is the piano all decked out for spring. To see the rest of my home decorated for spring, click here.

Now that I painted the piano, it is much more fun to decorate. Here it is all prettied up for fall. To see more of home decorated for fall, click here. I love the piano so much more now that it looks better and fits in with my updated decor.

A cozy room with a decorative chess table and chairs on a floral rug. A white piano with plants and framed art is against the wall. An elegant arched doorway leads to another space. Natural light highlights green plants throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions About Painting a Piano

Can I paint my piano without sanding it first?

Yes, you can paint your piano without sanding if you use a high-quality primer and paint specifically designed for adhering to glossy surfaces. Chalk paint and Fusion Mineral Paint are excellent options as they often require minimal prep work​ See Sherwin-Williams.

What type of paint should I use to paint my piano?

Chalk paint and Fusion Mineral Paint are popular choices for painting pianos. Chalk paint is easy to work with and requires little to no sanding or priming, while Fusion Mineral Paint provides a durable, long-lasting finish with built-in top coat​

For me, there was no question I was using either chalk paint or Fusion mineral paint because it’s less work. Yes you can paint a piano with latex satin or matte finish paint, however, the surface will need to be pre-sanded and protected with a top coat. I preferred to do less work and wanted to test out Fusion mineral paint, so I painted the piano with that.

How do I avoid getting paint on the piano keys?

To avoid getting paint on the keys, use painter’s tape to cover them. You can also press the keys down as you paint the areas around them, using a small craft brush for precision. Keep a wet cloth handy to quickly wipe away any accidental paint on the keys​

Do I need to apply a top coat after painting my piano?

Applying a top coat is highly recommended to protect your paint job and enhance its durability. Polycrylic is a great choice as it dries clear and provides a strong protective layer. This is especially important if the piano is used frequently or exposed to wear and tear​

How do I achieve a distressed look on my painted piano?

To achieve a distressed look, lightly sand the edges and areas where natural wear would occur after the paint has dried. Using a fine-grit sandpaper or a palm sander, gently rub the areas until you achieve the desired effect. Remember to wipe away any dust before applying the top coat​.

A white piano with a cushioned bench is adorned with green plants and a white clock. An ornate mirror hangs above, reflecting a staircase and greenery. Decorative vases with dried leaves sit on the piano. A vibrant rug lies on the wooden floor.

How long does it take for the paint to dry?

Drying times can vary depending on the type of paint used and the environmental conditions. Typically, chalk paint dries to the touch within 1-2 hours, but it is best to wait 24 hours before applying additional coats or the top coat to ensure the paint is fully cured​ (Sherwin-Williams)​.

Can I move the piano while painting it?

Pianos are heavy and difficult to move, so it is usually best to paint them in their current location. Protect the surrounding area with drop cloths or plastic sheeting to prevent paint splatters​

Is OK to Paint a Piano?

From my experience, painting the piano has not changed or altered the sound, so I say yes, it is OK to refinish it. After conducting some research on it, many pianists and tuners believe it does not affect the sound much at all provided you don’t paint the back where the sound board is located.

However a musician friend of mine cringed after hearing I painted it so…LOL. That said, proceed at your own risk. If the slightest of sound changes will upset you, don’t do it.

A cozy room featuring a wooden chessboard with carved pieces on a small table. A white piano with sheet music and a clock is in the background, flanked by tall green plants. A mirror and framed artwork complete the decor.

Final Thoughts on No-Sand Piano Painting

I’m thrilled with how my no-sand piano painting project turned out! It’s been several years now and the Fusion Mineral Paint has held up beautifully, even with daily use. Since refinishing this piano we moved to a new-to-us 1850 vintage farmhouse. After moving in, we located the piano in the front entry hall that recently received a makeover too.

The finish on the piano has held up really well, even after the big move. And I still have no regrets after painting the piano either! If I had the opportunity to do it again I would.

Skipping the sanding step made this project so much easier and less messy. I highly recommend this approach for anyone looking to refresh an old piano. With the right materials and some patience, you can achieve amazing results and transform your piano into a work of art.

In conclusion, painting a piano without sanding is a practical and effective way to transform your instrument into a stunning focal point in your home. With the right materials and techniques, you can achieve professional-looking results while saving time and effort.

Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or a beginner, no-sand painting offers a versatile and rewarding approach to piano refurbishment.

If you have any questions, comments or suggestions, please let me know in the comments below. I’d love to hear! And feel free to share this post with anyone you think would find it helpful too.

Thank you for visiting the blog today!

Enjoy a beautiful day! xo

stacy ling signature
A white piano with a matching bench sits in front of a mirror, topped with plants, a white clock, and vases. Text on the image reads, "How to Paint a Piano: An Easy Step-by-Step Guide." stacyling.com.
Two photos of the same piano situated one above the other. The top image shows a brown wooden piano with a matching bench before renovation. The bottom image displays the transformation: the piano painted white with a new decorative white bench, topped with green plants and decor items. Text in the middle reads "BEFORE AND AFTER PIANO." For more on painting a piano, visit "www.stacyling

Looking for More DIY Ideas?

If you are looking for more do-it-yourself projects to make your home even more amazing than it already is, check out these posts!

And here are some FAQ’s for chalk painting fabric and applying chalk paint to wood cabinets.

A cozy fall-themed room featuring a white piano adorned with pumpkins, white candles, and a floral arrangement. A clock hangs on the wall above the piano. Potted plants, a knitted blanket with pom-poms, and a wooden bench complete the decor—perfect inspiration for how to paint a piano yourself.
The piano decorated for fall in 2020
A cozy living room with a black leather couch adorned with a knit blanket. A white piano, looking elegant enough to inspire painting a piano, sits against the wall below a large clock, decorated with plants and candlesticks. To the left, find a small wooden table with a chess set and lamp as sunlight streams through the windows.
A room with a white piano and matching bench, adorned with greenery and white flowers. Above the piano is a large ornate mirror. To the right, six botanical prints hang on the wall. A potted plant sits in the corner, and a decorative rug covers the wooden floor, creating an inviting space for painting a piano masterpiece.
My Thrift Shop Finds and How I Styled Them
A white piano, reminiscent of vintage decor, is adorned with two rustic candle holders, each holding a tall, lit white candle. Surrounding the piano are lush green plants and a softly lit, sunlit curtain in the background—an ideal setting if you're considering painting a piano yourself.
Close up of the piano painted with Fusion Mineral Paint in Raw Silk

Stacy Ling

Stacy Ling is author of the best selling book, The Bricks 'n Blooms Guide to a Beautiful and Easy-Care Flower Garden, and writes the blog Bricks ’n Blooms from her 1850 farmhouse located in zone 6b northern New Jersey. She is a trained master gardener who’s been gardening for almost 30 years and enjoys sharing her passion to help beginners find their inner green thumb, as well as discover a love for all things plants and flowers. Stacy loves to bring the outdoors inside her home and decorates with a comfy, casual, and cottagecore style. Come grow stuff and create beautiful spaces with her.

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32 Comments

  1. 4 stars
    I grew up with a high back black mahogany piano which my brother and I both played during our school years. While I was away at college, my father “antiqued” it red. Over time, it turned a beautiful deep rose color and I decorated my first living room around that piano which my son played for years! I would never had wanted it if was still that black color! Always go for it!

    Reply

  2. I love the lighter color! I think pretty details can easily get lost on darker finished pieces, but then just pop with lighter colors, especially with antiquing glaze and/or distressing. It does look great styled up for the seasons, I would have fun with that as well. I’m wanting to try fusion mineral paint with glaze soon. Thanks for sharing!

    Reply

  3. This turned out great.

    When I was young my mom refinished her piano. She used a glossy black paint and shellaced sheet music on it. It was beautiful.

    My mom got accepted into Julaired. She was so talented.

    Reply

  4. Your piano looks beautiful wearing it’s new paint job! We recently inherited a piano from my husband’s nephew when they moved. It was my husband’s grandmother’s. She played it. His mom and sister played it. And then my nephew’s boys played it. I don’t really have room, but it is part of my husband’s history and heritage. This piano looks pretty much like your’s before you painted it. It is missing one of the knobs to open the key cover. Any idea where I can find a replacement knob?

    Reply

  6. The piano looks absolutely stunning. The colour choice is perfect.

    Since the piano is an accent piece, putting multiple large and bulky pieces on top and all around it takes away from its beautiful appeal and makes it looks cluttered up. The cushion on the seat is perfect. It warms it up.

    A few smaller scale items on top would compliment rather than take away. Ie the pedestal candles and a smaller plant.

    Well done Stacy!

    Reply