ᐅ How can I repaint IKEA Besta units, and what preparations are necessary?

Hello everyone, I am planning to modify my IKEA Besta shelving unit by repainting it. My specific question is: What is the best way to prepare the surfaces so that the new paint adheres well and is durable? I am especially interested in which preparation steps are essential, which materials are recommended, and whether I should consider particular types of paint suitable for Besta surfaces. It would also be helpful to know if there are any special considerations when removing the doors or protecting the hinges to ensure everything still functions properly after painting. Looking forward to your experiences and tips!

Klara46 schrieb:
What is the best way to prepare the surfaces so that the new paint adheres optimally and lasts longer?

This is a very important point. When preparing an IKEA Besta shelf, which typically consists of melamine-coated particleboard, it is essential to start by thoroughly sanding the surface. This coating is quite smooth and otherwise prevents good paint adhesion.

- First, remove all doors and fittings so you can work easily on all areas.
- Then, lightly sand the surface with 180 to 220 grit sandpaper to create a rougher texture.
- It is important to clean the entire surface afterward with a damp cloth to remove sanding dust.

Regarding the paint, I recommend using a special primer designed for smooth surfaces, such as an adhesion primer for plastics. After that, you can use an acrylic or acrylic-based paint suitable for furniture.

Klara46 schrieb:
Any special considerations when removing the doors or protecting the hinges?

For the hinges, you can either remove them and paint separately or carefully cover them with masking tape to protect them. Some users prefer removing the hinges to achieve a better finish, since spray painting carries the risk of paint getting into the mechanism.

Are there any specific surface types on your Besta (e.g., high gloss or melamine)? That would affect the preparation process.

I can completely understand how frustrating it is when the paint doesn’t adhere properly or ends up looking uneven. I had a similar experience with my Besta project.

Regarding preparation: I started by removing all the doors and taking off the hardware as a whole. I was rather cautious when sanding because I was afraid of damaging the surface, but that light roughening was actually crucial for the new paint to work properly.

glamo schrieb:
With the hinges, you can either remove them and paint separately or carefully tape them off to protect them.

That really helped me. Removing them was a bit fiddly, but it was worth it because otherwise, I would have had to do a lot more taping.

One more tip: Make sure the room is well ventilated, and definitely allow enough time for each coat to dry.

What kind of finish are you aiming for? Matte, satin, or maybe even high gloss?

glamo schrieb:
When preparing an IKEA Besta shelving unit, which typically consists of melamine-coated particleboard, it is essential to thoroughly sand the surface first.

Although this is often recommended, I would like to question that approach here: the melamine coating is quite thin, and sanding too aggressively can expose the underlying material, making the surface more vulnerable to paint. This can especially lead to an uneven finish when using rollers or brushes.

I tend to prefer self-adhesive primer films or even spray primers with special adhesion promoter formulas, which avoid these issues.

How much experience do you have working with melamine-coated furniture? What do you personally find more effective – better mechanical sanding or modern adhesion primers?

BLAKEO schrieb:
The melamine coating is quite thin, and sanding too aggressively can expose the underlying material

Interesting perspective, thanks! Indeed, I don't want to damage the surface, just lightly roughen it. My idea was to use a random orbital sander and be very careful.

glamo schrieb:
Does your Besta have any special finishes (e.g., high gloss or melamine)?

My doors have a matte melamine finish, no high gloss. I guess that’s a bit easier to work with, right?

Luciandi schrieb:
What kind of look did you have in mind? Matte, satin, or maybe even high gloss?

I’m leaning towards satin finish, as it looks elegant and is less sensitive than high gloss.

Thanks so far for the advice! It’s already very helpful. I’d appreciate more specific tips on primer and which paint I should use.

To precisely summarize the topic:

- Preparation: Light sanding with 180–220 grit sandpaper, an orbital sander is ideal for even pressure.
- Cleaning: Thoroughly remove all dust, preferably with a damp, lint-free cloth.
- Priming: Use an adhesion primer specifically designed for smooth surfaces (e.g., special plastic primers) to ensure long-term adhesion.
- Painting: For Besta with a melamine-coated surface, I recommend a 2-component acrylic paint or a high-quality acrylic paint with very good scratch and impact resistance.
- Doors/Fittings: It is advisable to remove doors and hinges, as painting in place often causes problems due to edges and hardware.

Please also follow the manufacturer’s curing times, as these can vary significantly depending on the product.

For your matte to satin finish, satin paints are suitable, as they are relatively resistant.

Overall, you should work in a well-ventilated area and use gloves and respiratory protection during painting.