How to Paint Laminate Furniture

How to Paint Laminate Furniture: A Complete Guide

Laminate furniture offers a budget-friendly alternative for those seeking stylish pieces without the hefty price tag of solid wood. However, one of the common issues people face with laminate is customization—how do you personalize or refresh such pieces? Painting laminate furniture is a fantastic solution, and with the right approach, you can achieve a beautiful, durable finish. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to paint laminate furniture.

Step 1: Choose the Right Paint and Tools

For laminate furniture, not just any paint will do. You need a paint that adheres well and can handle the non-porous, smooth surface of laminate. Benjamin Moore’s ADVANCE Interior paint is an excellent choice due to its durability and superb finish. Pair it with a high-quality primer like INSL-X STIX Waterborne Bonding Primer to ensure the best adhesion and longevity of your paint job.

Step 2: Prepare the Surface

Proper preparation is crucial to painting laminate furniture. Start by cleaning the piece thoroughly to remove any dust, dirt, or grease. A simple solution of mild detergent and water works well for this purpose. After cleaning, sand the surface lightly with fine-grit sandpaper (220-grit or higher) to scuff it up. This roughens up the laminate, allowing the primer to adhere better.

Step 3: Apply Primer

Once your furniture is clean and sanded, apply a coat of bonding primer. INSL-X STIX is recommended because of its strong adhesion properties, even on glossy surfaces like laminate. Let the primer dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions before moving on to painting.

Step 4: Paint Your Furniture

After the primer has dried, apply your chosen Benjamin Moore paint. For laminate furniture, using a small foam roller can help achieve a smooth finish without brush marks. Apply two to three thin coats, allowing sufficient drying time between each coat, as per the paint’s drying instructions.

Step 5: Seal the Paint

To extend the life of your paint job and protect the surface from wear and tear, apply a clear sealer over the paint. Choose a sealer appropriate for the type of paint you’ve used. This step is especially important for furniture pieces that will see regular use, like tables or desks.

Step 6: Reassemble and Enjoy

Once everything has dried completely and you’ve applied the sealer, reassemble any hardware or components you may have removed. Your laminate furniture is now refreshed and ready to be a focal point in your space!

Visit Wallauer’s for Supplies and Advice

For all your painting needs, including Benjamin Moore paint samples, tools, and expert advice, visit one of Wallauer’s 16 stores in and around Westchester, NY. Our staff is ready to help you pick the perfect products for your laminate furniture project and guide you through the process to ensure you achieve the best results. Whether you’re updating an old piece of furniture or experimenting with new colors, we have everything you need to make your project a success!