Quck answer
Pressed wood furniture is a cost-effective option for furnishing your home, but it often lacks style and personality. Painting pressed wood furniture is a great way to give it a fresh look and make it more unique. To paint pressed wood furniture, start by cleaning the surface and sanding it to create a smooth base. Then, apply a primer to help the paint adhere better. Once the primer is dry, apply several thin coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next. Finally, finish with a clear coat to protect the paint job. With these steps, you can transform your pressed wood furniture into a statement piece for your home.
If you still find the shape and style of your pressed wood media cabinet, wall system, or dresser appealing but want to get rid of the faux wood finish, painting is the best solution, provided the piece can handle a coat of color without bubbling, peeling, or falling apart. You can transform an inexpensive bargain into a beautiful piece with the right tools and a light touch within a weekend.
Pressed Wood and Particleboard
Pressed wood or pressed particleboard is created by coating leftover wood shavings, sawdust, and small wood particles with a resin and pressing them together to form “boards.” It’s a lightweight, affordable wood alternative that absorbs water more easily than solid wood. To hold things together, a thin sheet of veneer or laminate is usually applied to the pressed wood material, which has a slick finish that paint will not adhere to. To paint pressed wood, you must rough it up and create some grip. If done correctly, your painted piece may even deceive your most discerning friends.
Prime, Paint, Preen
Choose the best and most convincing paint treatment for the piece based on its design. An opaque chalk or milk paint gives a traditional or country wardrobe or dresser a solid and vintage appearance. A low-gloss white finish is perfect for a minimalist table or bookcase. A shiny black or lacquered cinnabar gives your Art Deco wall system a decadent or exotic feel, respectively. The paint job is straightforward, from prep to polish.
Step 1: Remove all hardware and wipe down the piece
Clean the surface of dirt and dust to make sanding easier. Fill in holes from the hardware if you’re going to replace it with new hardware after painting the piece. Allow any wood filler to dry completely before sanding. Disassemble pieces with separate drawers or other removable parts that you’ll sand and paint separately.
Step 2: Sand gently
Using an orbital sander or medium-grade sandpaper, create a rough texture for the new paint to adhere to. No need to exert too much force as you don’t want to remove the laminate or veneer, or cause the pressboard to gouge or turn to sawdust. Your aim is to remove the slick smooth finish that will cause a coat of paint to bubble or bead.
Step 3: Wipe and prime
Clean all the dust from the sanded piece with a clean rag or tack cloth. If you use a damp sponge, make sure it’s not too wet, and allow the piece to dry before proceeding. Once it’s clean, prime the surface to seal it and create a new surface that the paint can adhere to. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for letting the primer dry, and give the piece extra drying time in very humid conditions.
Step 4: Create your masterpiece with paint
Use a roller, brush or spray to apply the base coat and any decorative or extra coats of your chosen paint. Make sure to allow enough time for each coat to dry. You may need to apply multiple coats of paint to achieve a smooth, professional-looking finish. If you notice bubbles in the paint as you apply the first coat or as it dries, it means you did not sand the underlying veneer properly. In this case, you may need to sand those areas and start over.
Step 5: Complete the piece and put it on display
Once the piece is completely dry, apply a protective finish. This step is not strictly necessary, but it’s a good idea if the piece will undergo heavy use, has intricate faux-finishing or detailing, or is in a high-traffic area. Don’t forget to replace any hardware that you removed before painting and reassemble any furniture that you disassembled for refinishing.
FAQ
1. Can I paint pressed wood furniture?
Yes, you can paint pressed wood furniture. However, it is important to properly prepare the surface before painting. Start by cleaning the furniture with a mild detergent and water to remove any dirt or grime. Next, lightly sand the surface to create a smooth finish and improve paint adhesion. Make sure to wipe away any dust before applying a primer. Use a primer specifically designed for pressed wood to ensure proper coverage and adhesion. After the primer has dried, you can paint the furniture with your desired color using a brush or roller. Finish with a clear coat or sealant to protect the paint and give the furniture a polished look.
2. What type of paint should I use for pressed wood furniture?
When painting pressed wood furniture, it is best to use a paint that is specifically formulated for wood surfaces. Look for a paint that is labeled as suitable for use on pressed wood or engineered wood. Acrylic latex paint is a popular choice as it provides good coverage, dries quickly, and is easy to clean up. It is also important to choose a paint finish that suits your preferences and the style of the furniture. Satin or semi-gloss finishes are commonly used for furniture as they offer a durable and easy-to-clean surface.
3. Do I need to prime pressed wood furniture before painting?
Yes, it is recommended to prime pressed wood furniture before painting. Priming helps to create a smooth and even surface, enhances paint adhesion, and prevents the wood from absorbing too much paint. Choose a primer that is specifically designed for use on pressed wood or engineered wood surfaces. Apply the primer evenly using a brush or roller, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Allow the primer to dry completely before applying the paint. Priming will ensure that the paint adheres well and provides a long-lasting finish.
4. Can I sand pressed wood furniture?
Yes, you can sand pressed wood furniture. Sanding the surface helps to smooth out any imperfections and create a better surface for painting. However, it is important to be cautious while sanding as pressed wood is made of thin layers of wood veneer and resin, which can easily be damaged. Use a fine-grit sandpaper and sand in a gentle circular motion. Avoid applying too much pressure to prevent sanding through the veneer. After sanding, wipe away any dust with a damp cloth before priming and painting the furniture.
5. How do I ensure a long-lasting paint finish on pressed wood furniture?
To ensure a long-lasting paint finish on pressed wood furniture, proper preparation and sealing are essential. Start by cleaning and sanding the surface as mentioned earlier. After painting, allow the paint to dry completely before applying a clear coat or sealant. A clear coat will provide an extra layer of protection against scratches and wear. Apply the clear coat evenly using a brush or roller, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Allow the clear coat to dry thoroughly before using or moving the furniture. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning with a mild detergent and avoiding harsh chemicals, will also help extend the lifespan of the paint finish.
6. Can I use spray paint on pressed wood furniture?
Yes, you can use spray paint on pressed wood furniture. Spray paint offers a convenient and efficient way to cover large surfaces and achieve a smooth finish. However, it is important to choose a spray paint that is suitable for use on wood surfaces. Look for a spray paint specifically formulated for wood or engineered wood. Before spraying, prepare the surface by cleaning and sanding it as mentioned earlier. Apply the spray paint in thin, even coats, holding the can about 8-12 inches away from the furniture. Allow each coat to dry before applying the next one. Finish with a clear coat or sealant for added protection.
7. Can I repaint pressed wood furniture?
Yes, you can repaint pressed wood furniture. If you want to change the color or update the look of your furniture, you can follow the same steps as mentioned earlier. Start by cleaning the furniture, sanding the surface, and applying a primer. Once the primer has dried, paint the furniture with your desired color using a brush, roller, or spray paint. Finish with a clear coat or sealant to protect the new paint. Repainting pressed wood furniture can be a great way to give it a fresh and updated appearance.