ᐅ How can I customize the color of Billy shelves?

Hello everyone,
I want to repaint my Billy shelves and am looking for proven methods that ensure a long-lasting finish and a nice result. The shelves are made of laminated wood, and I want to avoid the paint peeling off quickly or developing unsightly spots. Has anyone had experience with specific types of paint or surface preparations such as sanding or priming? I’m also interested in whether spray paint is better than using a roller or brush, especially to achieve an even surface. I look forward to tips on preparation, paint selection (e.g., latex paint, acrylic, etc.), and suitable procedures to make sure the result is durable and long-lasting.

I would start by lightly sanding the shelf with fine sandpaper to roughen the surface. Then apply a wood primer. For the paint, you can use acrylic, which adheres well and is easy to work with. Spray paint is convenient for smooth and even results if you can control it.

Hey, I painted my Billy shelves with chalk paint and was really happy with the result! 😊 Chalk paint doesn’t require much preparation except for a light sanding. It gives a nice matte vintage look and is very easy to apply. After that, I sealed the surface with furniture wax, which helps with durability. If you want it to be a bit more robust, I’d still recommend using a special furniture primer to prevent the paint from peeling.

dijan schrieb:
Chalk paint usually doesn’t require much preparation other than light sanding.

Light sanding is indeed important, but when it comes to laminate, you should keep in mind that it is not a real wood surface. Adhesion of chalk paint on such smooth surfaces is often lower than with acrylic or spray paints when used with the appropriate primer.

For preparation, I recommend first lightly scuffing the surface with very fine sandpaper (grit 220-240) to create a dull finish. Then, apply a bonding primer specifically designed for smooth surfaces. Instead of chalk paint, I would suggest using water-based acrylic paints, as they are more flexible and adhere better. Sealing with furniture wax works well for matte finishes, but the surface must be completely dry and dust-free after priming before painting.

Spray paint can produce smooth results and works well, but the application needs to be even and thin to avoid drips. If you want more control, using a roller or brush with acrylic paint is the better option.

usbla schrieb:
Instead of chalk paint, I would recommend using water-based acrylic paints

Thank you for the detailed advice! I hadn’t really considered the need for a primer specifically for laminate before. Now I’m wondering whether a special primer for laminate is the best option, or if general-purpose primers would also be sufficient?

DUVIN schrieb:
Use acrylic; it adheres well and is easy to apply

Acrylic sounds like a good recommendation – what about the surface finish? Does it tend to be more matte or glossy? I actually prefer a matte look without too much shine.

And another question about preparation: Should I fill the shelves with newspaper or plastic sheeting before painting, or could I apply the paint directly with a fine-pored roller without much protective covering around?

It would be great if someone could also share some practical tips on the painting process itself.

belome schrieb:
whether a special primer for laminate is the best choice or if all-purpose primers are also sufficient?

For laminate or melamine-coated surfaces, special primers are recommended. These significantly improve the adhesion of subsequent layers. An all-purpose primer can work, but it is often less durable over time.

The surface of acrylic paints is usually water-based and can have different sheens. There are matte, satin, and glossy versions available. For a matte finish, you should specifically look for matte acrylic paint.

Regarding preparation: It is advisable to carefully tape off and cover the inside surfaces of the shelves. Although a fine-pored roller applies paint quite precisely, there is still a risk of splatters or drips. Newspaper is suitable for protecting the floor and surrounding areas. The covering work pays off and makes touch-ups easier.

It is also important to allow good drying time between paint layers and, if necessary, to lightly sand the surface so that the next layer adheres better.