ᐅ How can I properly paint Malm furniture?

Good morning everyone, I plan to repaint my IKEA Malm dressers and want the result to look as professional and durable as possible. I understand that regular wall paint is not suitable and that proper surface preparation is necessary, but which exact steps are recommended?

I have the following questions: What is the best way to prepare the surface to avoid chipping? Which primer and paint are ideal for MDF or veneered surfaces? Is sanding between coats necessary? And what about sealing after painting to ensure the furniture remains resistant?

I would appreciate tips on materials and techniques, as well as any specific experiences with Malm furniture.

Usladu schrieb:
Which exact steps are recommended for this?

Hello! So, Malm furniture is very popular, but the surface is often standard plastic or melamine. The best approach is to start with a thorough cleaning, otherwise nothing will stick. Then lightly sand with 120-grit sandpaper to improve paint adhesion.

For priming, I always use an adhesion primer specially designed for smooth surfaces. After that, simply paint with acrylic paint or special furniture paint and, once dry, seal with a clear coat.

It might sound like a lot, but if the surface is prepared properly, you’ll enjoy the results for a long time!

Clean the surface, sand it lightly, and apply a primer. Then apply the paint in 2-3 thin layers, remembering to sand between coats. Finally, apply a clear coat. Done.

vin_leo schrieb:
It’s best to start with thorough cleaning; otherwise, nothing will stick.

Exactly! I like to use warm water with dish soap, a very simple method but highly effective 🙂

nofomu schrieb:
Clean the surface, then sand it,

Never underestimate sanding – often, fine sandpaper is enough. This helps the paint adhere better and gives the surface a much more premium finish.

Basically: first clean, then lightly sand, and afterwards apply a primer. Between the paint layers, sand briefly and then apply a clear coat.

For the primer, I always use a solvent-based bonding primer. It works better for plastic and melamine.

Make sure to have good odor protection and don’t forget to ventilate.

It’s great that you cover so many basics here! 🙂 When painting Malm furniture, I have a little extra tip for you: if you apply a fine primer after sanding, you’ll get excellent adhesion.

I even tried using a small amount of effect paint, which really makes the piece stand out! Then apply a clear coat, and the item holds up well and shines beautifully. It’s definitely worth the effort, give it a try!