Painting laminate is like giving your furniture a makeover, transforming it from drab to fab. In this article, we’ll show you the step-by-step process of painting laminate furniture, along with tips for different types of pieces. With the right products and a little bit of effort, you can achieve stunning results that will make your furniture shine.
The Basics of Laminate Furniture
Yes, you can paint laminate furniture to give it a fresh new look. Laminate furniture is an affordable alternative to solid wood, but it comes with its own set of pros and cons. While solid wood is sturdy and durable, laminate offers a more budget-friendly option that is resistant to scratches and moisture. When painting laminate furniture, there are creative techniques you can try to achieve different effects. You can explore different finishes for laminate surfaces such as matte or glossy. Before painting, it’s important to repair any damaged areas on the furniture using methods like filling in chips or cracks. Additionally, you can transform your laminate furniture by using decoupage techniques to add unique patterns or designs.
Preparing Laminate Furniture for Painting
To get your laminate furniture ready for painting, make sure you thoroughly clean the surface using a wet rag. This will remove any dirt or grime that could affect the adhesion of the paint. After cleaning, it’s important to sand the laminate using 220-grit sandpaper. This will roughen up the surface and create texture for better paint adherence. Vacuum any debris after sanding and wipe down with a microfiber towel to ensure a smooth finish. Once the surface is prepped, choose the right primer for your project. A high-quality bonding primer is recommended for proper adhesion on laminate surfaces. Apply an even coat of primer on the entire surface and allow it to dry completely before moving on to painting techniques.
Step-by-Step Guide to Painting Laminate Furniture
Start by thoroughly cleaning the surface of your furniture with a wet rag to ensure that it’s free from any dirt or grime. Once the surface is clean, you can follow these steps to paint your laminate furniture:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Sand the laminate using 220-grit sandpaper to create a rough surface for better adhesion. |
| 2 | Apply a bonding primer to the entire surface of the furniture. This will help the paint adhere properly and prevent peeling or chipping. |
| 3 | Choose the right paint color for your furniture. Consider using high-quality acrylic latex paint for durability and ease of application. |
| 4 | Use a brush or roller specifically designed for painting laminate surfaces to achieve a smooth finish without streaks or brush marks. |
| 5 | Apply multiple thin coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next one. This will help you achieve an even and professional-looking finish. |
| 6 | Avoid common mistakes such as rushing through the process, applying too much paint at once, or neglecting proper drying time between coats. |
| 7 | If desired, you can add a decorative finish such as distressing, glazing, or stenciling to give your furniture a unique look. |
Tips for Painting Different Types of Laminate Furniture
When painting laminate cabinets, it is important to remove the doors and lay them flat for easier application. By doing so, you can achieve a smooth finish and ensure that no drips or runs occur. Here are some tips to keep in mind when painting different types of laminate furniture:
- Removing hardware: Before you start painting, make sure to remove any hinges or handles from the furniture to avoid getting paint on them.
- Choosing the right paint: Use a high-quality paint specifically designed for laminate surfaces. This will ensure better adhesion and durability.
- Prepping laminate surfaces: Clean the surface thoroughly with a wet rag and sand it lightly with 220-grit sandpaper. This will help the paint adhere better.
- Protecting surrounding areas: When painting larger pieces like dressers or bookshelves, position them away from walls and use drop cloths to protect surrounding areas.
Recommended Products for Painting Laminate Furniture
For the best results, you should consider using products like INSL-X STIX Primer or INSL-X Cabinet Coat when painting your laminate furniture. These high-quality primers provide unmatched adhesion for challenging surfaces and ensure a long-lasting, smooth finish. Pair them with Benjamin Moore ADVANCE Interior Paint for easy application and excellent color options. When choosing the right paint color for your laminate furniture, consider the overall aesthetic of your space and any existing color schemes. To achieve a smooth finish, apply multiple coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying another. Avoid common mistakes such as painting on a dirty surface or skipping sanding, which is crucial for proper adhesion. If using a paint sprayer, follow proper techniques and practice in an inconspicuous area first. After painting, properly clean and maintain your painted laminate furniture by regularly dusting and wiping it down with mild soap and water.
Dos and Don’ts for Painting Laminate Furniture
Now that you have learned about the recommended products for painting laminate furniture, let’s discuss some dos and don’ts to ensure successful results. Follow these guidelines to achieve a professional-looking finish:
Dos:
- Do use appropriate sanding techniques with sandpaper finer than 220-grit to create a dull finish on the shiny surface before painting.
- Do select the right color for your desired look and consider using Benjamin Moore’s Color Portfolio app for assistance.
- Do thoroughly clean the surface of the furniture before starting the painting process.
- Do allow sufficient drying time between coats of paint to ensure proper adhesion and a smooth finish.
- Do consider using both brushes and rollers depending on the size and texture of the furniture.
Don’ts:
- Don’t attempt to stain laminate furniture as it will not adhere properly.
- Don’t skip the surface preparation step, including cleaning and sanding, as it is crucial for paint adhesion.
- Don’t oversand and risk damaging the top layer of laminate.
Benjamin Moore Products for Painting Laminate Furniture
To achieve a professional-looking finish when painting laminate furniture, consider using Benjamin Moore’s Color Portfolio app to help choose the perfect color. This app offers a wide range of colors and shades that will complement your existing decor. Proper surface preparation is key when painting laminate furniture. Clean the surface thoroughly with a wet rag and sand it using 220-grit sandpaper to create a rough texture for better adhesion. Applying a bonding primer will ensure that the paint adheres properly to the laminate surface. When painting, use techniques like applying thin coats of paint and allowing each coat to dry completely before adding another one for a smooth finish. To maintain the painted laminate furniture, avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the paint. Instead, use mild soap and water for regular cleaning. If you want to add decorative finishes, consider using stencils or decals to create unique designs on your painted laminate furniture.
