ᐅ How can I repaint BILLY shelves to change their color?

Created on: 1 Jul 2022 08:12
G
Gitau
Hello everyone,

I have several Billy shelves from IKEA and would like to repaint them. Since the surface is painted or melamine-coated, I’m wondering what the best approach would be to achieve an even and durable finish.

What should I pay attention to regarding preparation, sanding, priming, and type of paint? Are there specific paints that work better for making the shelves stable and visually appealing?

I look forward to tips and experiences, including concrete product recommendations and do’s and don’ts. Thank you!
G
Gitau
2 Jul 2022 08:47
LOJOPAR schrieb:
After priming, you can lightly sand with 240-grit sandpaper to ensure a smooth surface.

Thanks again! What would you recommend for the paint finish: matte, satin, or glossy? And how about durability?

I want to use the shelves in the living room, so the paint should be durable but does not need to have a shiny appearance. Are there specific types of paint that are ideal for furniture?
K
Kenon70
2 Jul 2022 09:05
For residential furniture, a satin finish is usually a good choice – it looks elegant and is easy to maintain. Acrylic-based paints are resistant to minor impacts and scratches.

Matte finishes can be more sensitive, while high gloss tends to show scratches more easily.
L
LOJOPAR
2 Jul 2022 09:43
Gitau schrieb:
Are there specific types of paint that are ideal for furniture?

Yes, you should use furniture paint or multi-surface paint that is specifically designed for wood or furniture surfaces.

Water-based acrylic paints are environmentally friendly and dry quickly, while synthetic resin paints are more durable but have a stronger odor.

For living room shelves, I recommend a satin-matte acrylic paint – it offers a good balance between appearance and durability.