[header] How to paint a table [title] Separate any pieces that you don't want stuck together. [step] If your table has a leaf, pull it slightly open so the leaf doesn't touch the edges of the main table. This way, the paint won't seal the pieces together when it dries. 
[substeps] If your table has no leaf, there's no need to take pieces apart. [title] Sand down the tabletop to remove any thick varnish or imperfections.