ᐅ Painting Kallax with spray paint – winner of tests – any experiences?

Hello everyone,

I am currently considering repainting my Kallax shelf with spray paint because after several years I no longer like the color and some spots have chipped. It is especially important to me to use a paint that provides a smooth, even surface after drying and is as durable as possible.

My question for you: which spray paints have you found to be the best for repainting Kallax shelves? Which brands or types deliver the best results regarding coverage, durability, and application?

I would also like to know if you use any special surface preparations to improve paint adhesion, and whether it makes a difference to disassemble the shelf completely or paint it fully assembled.

I look forward to your experiences and tips!

Narjonatho schrieb:
Which spray paints have you found to be the best for repainting Kallax, based on test results?

Best overall? I think that term often sounds too absolute. Sure, some brands are more well-known and sell better, but when it comes to painting, what you bring to the table also matters a lot: preparation, layering, patience.

There isn’t really a “best” spray paint, but rather the one you handle best or that suits the surface best. Personally, I wouldn’t be too influenced by supposed “best overall” winners. However, if durability and a smooth finish are important, I would lean more towards synthetic resin paints or enamel rather than standard RAL spray paints.

By the way, I don’t understand why people don’t just disassemble the shelves and sides of the Kallax before painting. Especially with spray paint, that approach greatly improves the quality.

LIELCHEN schrieb:
Personally, I wouldn’t be too impressed by (so-called) test winners.

I can really understand that. It’s easy to get lost in the jungle of offers.
I once renovated my Kallax as well, using an inexpensive spray paint from a hardware store. The result was okay—but not beautiful, because I worked too quickly. The surface became rough, and the paint started to peel a bit after one year.

I think good preparation and time are really crucial. I’m also interested in tips on how to best prepare the shelf and whether a primer makes sense.

For Kallax, I recommend sanding before painting, then applying a primer. Use spray paint with a high acrylic content. Apply several thin coats, not too thick. Fully dry after 24 hours.

NIARLCHEN schrieb:
Test winner? I find this term often sounds too absolute.

Exactly. "Test winner" is often just marketing. Especially with spray paints, the outcome greatly depends on the project itself and the surface. Kallax is usually melamine-coated or veneered, depending on the model. Some paints require special adhesion promoters; otherwise, the finish won’t last long.

I find it interesting that the question was asked in such detail because many people just “throw paint on” without considering the surface condition. That’s often where bad experiences come from.

Hello everyone,

Two years ago, I completely painted my Kallax with Montana Gold spray paint and I am still very satisfied with it today. It was important to me to use a paint suitable for furniture that provides good color depth and durability.

My preparation involved sanding the Kallax lightly with fine sandpaper, then applying a primer (acrylic adhesion promoter), followed by two thin coats of paint.

The surface is very smooth, with hardly any scratches, and so far there has been no chipping. I would clearly name Montana Gold as the top choice, at least for the DIY sector.