ᐅ How can I customize Ikea Besta furniture with paint to suit my personal design preferences?

For matte finishes on Besta, it helps to apply the paint thinly and do intermediate sanding with fine sandpaper (400+). Sufficient drying time is essential; otherwise, the result will be sticky.

bapar schrieb:

If you’re hesitant to use 2K paints, stick to high-quality acrylics with a matte finish and carefully optimize the preparation and application of each coat.

I think that’s a very good idea for beginners.

In addition, I would like to point out that the surface should be free of micro-cracks before painting.

After the first sanding, you can apply a filler or primer filler to even out any irregularities or small damages. This is especially useful for old furniture fronts with signs of wear.

Regarding the paint application: For Besta doors, I recommend using a spray gun or airbrush system if possible to achieve a smooth, uniform surface. However, this requires some practice and proper room ventilation.

Don’t try to do too much at once. Instead, apply several thin coats and let each one dry thoroughly. Finally, you can dull the surface lightly with a very fine sanding fleece (e.g., P800 or finer) without fully removing the paint.

How large is your planned project? Just individual Besta elements or several?

Filippo schrieb:

How large is your planned project? Just individual Besta components or several?

There are two complete Besta sets – each consisting of the carcass plus doors and drawer fronts. I plan to paint the fronts in different colors, while the carcasses will be a uniform dark shade (maybe anthracite or black). I don’t own a spray gun and have no experience using one.

So far, I was thinking of working with a brush or roller. Is that suitable if done carefully? Or will the brush or roller marks be too noticeable?

What do you think about combining different colored paints? Is it enough to just use the same type of paint?

For two complete Besta sets, I would definitely recommend using a good rolling and brushing technique with a high-quality foam roller. Spraying usually delivers the best visual results, but it is quite complex for beginners.

Make sure to choose brushes with fine, soft bristles and avoid applying excess paint when rolling. You can switch colors between doors as long as all coatings are based on the same type – for example, all acrylic-based or all alkyd-based. It is important that primer and paint are compatible; otherwise, adhesion problems may occur.

Preparation and intermediate sanding for multiple components are time-consuming but well worth it for a professional result.

Good luck!

Pascalla schrieb:

What do you think about combining different paint colors? Is it enough to just use the same type of paint?

Yes, exactly, that’s important! If you want to combine multiple colors, you should always use paints from the same product line. For example, different shades of an acrylic paint. This helps avoid issues with adhesion and drying.

Another tip: If you are painting doors in different colors, you can work on them on a large workbench with hooks for hanging. This prevents fingerprints and ensures optimal paint coverage from all sides.

Regarding tools: As mentioned, a fine foam roller and a brush for the finish are completely sufficient – the roller gives smooth surfaces, and the brush helps with the edges.

Enjoy your project!