Transforming A Dresser: Painting Laminate Tops

Painting a dresser with a laminate top is a simple, cost-effective way to breathe new life into a piece of furniture. Laminate is a synthetic material, usually plastic, that is used to create a thin exterior layer on furniture or other surfaces. It is durable and holds up well to wear and tear, making it a great surface to paint over. However, because of its glossy and shiny finish, it can be tricky to paint and usually requires some prep work. The key steps to painting a laminate dresser include cleaning the surface, sanding to remove the shine and add texture, priming, painting, and sealing.

Clean the dresser with a quality cleaner/degreaser and a damp cloth

Painting a laminate dresser is a great way to upcycle it and inject your own style into your home. Before painting, it's important to clean the dresser thoroughly to ensure the paint will adhere properly. Start by removing any old residue, such as leftover tape glue, from the dresser. These residual substances should easily scrape off. If they don't, you may need to use an adhesive remover or paint stripper, being sure to test it on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn't cause damage or discolouration.

Next, you'll want to use a quality cleaner/degreaser to remove any grease, grime, or other contaminants that will repel paint. You can spray a product like Krud Kutter all over the dresser and then wipe it down with a damp cloth. This will ensure that the surface is extremely clean, which is crucial for paint adhesion. After cleaning, allow the dresser to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Once the dresser is clean and dry, you can begin the process of scuffing up the surface with sandpaper. Laminate furniture typically has a shiny and slick finish, so scuff sanding is important to create a texture that paint can adhere to. Use a medium-grit sandpaper, such as 220-grit or finer, and gently sand the surface until it has a dull finish. Be careful not to oversand, as laminate is a thin material and you don't want to break through the top layer.

After sanding, it's important to remove any dust or debris from the surface. Use a dry cloth or dust spray to ensure the surface is completely clean and free of particles before proceeding to the next step, which is priming. A clean and properly prepared surface will ensure that your paint job is durable and long-lasting.

Sand the surface with low-grit sandpaper to remove the shine and add texture

Painting a dresser with a laminate top can be a fun and easy project, but it's important to prepare the surface properly to ensure the paint adheres well and doesn't peel or scratch off. Sanding the surface is a crucial step in this process.

Laminate furniture usually has a shiny, slick surface with a wood grain pattern printed on synthetic materials. This glossy finish can hinder paint adhesion, so it's important to remove the shine and add texture by sanding the surface. Choose low-grit sandpaper, such as 150-grit or 220-grit sandpaper, for this task. Avoid using a power sander, as laminate is a thin material and you don't want to sand through the top layer. Gently scuff the surface by hand to create a dull, matte finish. This will provide a better surface for the paint to adhere to.

Before you start sanding, ensure that the laminate surface is clean and free of any grease, grime, or old residue that may repel paint. You can use a quality cleaner/degreaser and wipe the surface with a damp cloth. Once the surface is dry, you can begin sanding.

After sanding, it's important to remove any dust particles created during the process. Use a dry cloth or a dust spray to wipe down the surface, ensuring it is completely clean and debris-free before proceeding to the next step, which is priming.

Primer is essential when painting laminate furniture as it improves paint adhesion and helps create a durable finish. Choose a bonding primer designed for use on shiny surfaces, such as an oil-based primer or a shellac-based primer. You can apply the primer with a mohair roller or a paintbrush, following the manufacturer's instructions for drying time. Once the primer is dry, lightly sand it with fine-grit sandpaper to provide texture and then clean off the dust particles again before applying your paint.

Use a powerful bonding primer like INSL-X® STIX® for adhesion

Painting a laminate dresser is a great way to upcycle furniture and inject your own style into your home. Laminate furniture has a shiny and slick synthetic surface that can make it difficult for paint to adhere to, so it's important to use the right products and techniques.

One of the most important steps in painting a laminate dresser with a laminate top is using a powerful bonding primer like INSL-X® STIX®. This type of primer is designed to offer strong adhesion properties to any surface, even shiny and glossy ones like laminate. It is crucial to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the best results.

Before applying the primer, it is important to prepare the surface of the laminate dresser. Start by removing any old residue, such as leftover tape glue, from the dresser. These residual substances should easily scrape off, but if needed, use an adhesive remover or paint stripper. Be sure to test any chemical products in an inconspicuous area first to ensure they do not damage or discolour the surface.

Once the surface is free of residue, clean it with a quality cleaner or degreaser. Spray the dresser with a product like Krud Kutter and then wipe it down with a damp cloth. This step ensures that the surface is free of grease, grime, or other contaminants that may repel paint. After cleaning, allow the dresser to dry thoroughly.

The next step is to sand the surface of the laminate dresser. Laminate has a hard, shiny finish, so sanding is crucial to remove the shine and add texture, improving paint adhesion. Use fine or medium-grit sandpaper (220-grit or finer) and sand the surface until it has a dull finish. Be careful not to oversand, as laminate is a thin material. Gently sand in a scuffing motion, creating a workable surface for the primer to adhere to. Once the sanding is complete, ensure the surface is clean and free of dust particles.

After the surface has been prepared, you can apply the INSL-X® STIX® primer. This primer is designed to provide a strong bond between the laminate surface and your chosen paint colour. Follow the instructions on the primer for application and drying times. It is generally recommended to apply two coats of primer for the best results and to let it cure overnight before moving on to the next step.

By following these steps and using a powerful bonding primer like INSL-X® STIX®, you can ensure that your paint will adhere properly to the laminate surface of your dresser, resulting in a durable and long-lasting finish.

Paint the dresser with latex paint using a clean mohair roller

Painting a dresser with a laminate top requires some preparation, but it is a straightforward and economical way to give your furniture a unique look. Here is a detailed guide on how to paint a laminate dresser with latex paint using a clean mohair roller:

Preparation:

Before you start painting, it is crucial to prepare the surface of your dresser. Start by removing any drawers and cleaning the surface with a quality cleaner or degreaser. Spray the dresser with a product like Krud Kutter and then wipe it down with a damp cloth to ensure the surface is free of grease, grime, or other contaminants that may repel paint.

Sanding:

Once the dresser is clean and dry, use low-grit sandpaper (150-grit to 220-grit) to sand the surface. Laminate has a hard, shiny finish, so sanding is essential to remove the shine and add texture, which will help the paint adhere better. Be gentle during this process, as laminate is a thin material, and you don't want to sand through the wood grain pattern.

Priming:

After sanding, use a clean mohair roller to apply a high-quality primer. A bonding primer, such as INSL-X STIX, is recommended for its strong adhesion properties. You can tint your primer to a lighter shade of your final paint color to make the painting process easier. Apply two coats of primer and let it dry thoroughly.

Painting with Latex Paint:

Now, you are ready to apply your latex paint. Using a clean mohair roller, start by applying the first coat of latex paint. Latex paint is a great choice for painting laminate furniture due to its durability and smooth finish. Allow the first coat to dry for at least four hours, and then apply the second coat. Check your paint can for specific drying instructions.

Final Steps:

Once your final coat of paint is dry, you can reassemble your dresser by sliding the drawers back into place. You can also add any hardware or final touches, such as new handles or decorations. Now, you can enjoy your newly painted laminate dresser!

Apply a few coats of water-based poly for extra durability

Painting a laminate dresser is a great way to upcycle old furniture and give it a new look. After you've painted your dresser, applying a few coats of water-based poly will give the finish extra durability. Water-based poly is a great option for indoor furniture, as it is clear, low-odour, and has a quick-drying time. However, it may not be the best option for surfaces that are exposed to heat or the elements.

To apply water-based poly, start by ensuring your work area is well-ventilated to clear any fumes. Water-based poly has a mild smell, but it's always good to have fresh air circulating. Use a brush, roller, spray, or rag to apply the poly. Brushes are best for flat surfaces, while rags or cloths are ideal for contoured surfaces. Before you begin, dampen your chosen tool with water.

When applying the poly, use long strokes in a vertical direction, following the grain of the wood. Take care to avoid drips, especially on rounded, contoured, or vertical surfaces. If you do end up with brush marks or bumps, you can wet sand the area with a little water and a drop of dish detergent, using a sanding block.

Water-based poly dries quickly, so you can apply multiple coats in a short amount of time. Typically, you'll need to apply between four to eight coats to achieve a protective finish. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next one.

Frequently asked questions