You might consider Annie Sloan chalk paint. It definitely does not require any sanding or priming. It distresses easily and you might want to do that as the rest of the trunk is distressed. As it is the top of the table I'd coat with polyurethane after. Personally, I feel I have more control using a brush with chalk paint than with spray paint.

Why... get a padded ottoman with storage inside. Safer for kids and gives you storage for a similar price.

OP here. That's it? No sanding or primer.

Easiest would be to spray paint the top. Home Depot has a huge selection of spray paints. Get the right shade of red that you like, use get butcher paper and blue paint tape and cover all but top. Take outside and spray. Done.

My DH wants to get a trunk to use as a coffee table. Here is the one he has his heart set on: http://www.walmart.com/ip/Household-Essential-9253-1-Red-White-Blue-Design-Trunk-Nested-Jumbo-Medium/37897635. I am not the biggest fan of it, but could be open to getting it if the top was painted either blue or red.

How do you go about painting a trunk (especially if it will be used as a coffee table). What special paint would you need, and would this be a complicated project?

Thanks!