Hello everyone, I would like to repaint my IKEA Malm dressers, but I have heard about and personally experienced blistering in the paint layer. My question is: How can I repaint Malm dressers without bubbles forming under the paint surface? Which preparation, type of paint, and technique are best suited? I have already considered sanding, primer, and different types of paint, but I am unsure how to effectively prevent bubbles. Maybe you have experience or tips that could help me achieve a smooth and durable finish. Thanks in advance!
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Annikakau1 Oct 2022 09:15draFrederi schrieb:
Blistering usually occurs due to applying the paint too thickly or because the surface was not properly prepared. Thanks in advance! Since I plan to apply the paint mostly with a brush, which primer would you recommend exactly? Are there special primers for MDF/particleboard, like the ones used for Malm?
If you have any tips on sanding – what grit should I use? Is 120 grit enough, or is a finer grit better? I’m asking because I want to avoid leaving any rough sanding marks that could later show through the paint.
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PeoDaniel1 Oct 2022 10:22Hello Annikakau,
for MALM dressers, which are mostly made of MDF or particleboard with a foil coating, I recommend first gently roughening the foil on the edges so that the primer adheres. An alkyd primer or a high-quality acrylic primer is recommended because it penetrates well and is suitable for MDF.
Sanding: 120-grit sandpaper is ideal for lightly sanding before priming to improve paint adhesion. After priming, sand very lightly again with 220- to 320-grit sandpaper to create a smooth surface for the topcoat. It is always important to thoroughly remove dust, for example, using a tack cloth or a slightly damp cloth.
If you are using a brush, choose one that is not too wet to avoid drips and the formation of bubbles.
Good luck!
for MALM dressers, which are mostly made of MDF or particleboard with a foil coating, I recommend first gently roughening the foil on the edges so that the primer adheres. An alkyd primer or a high-quality acrylic primer is recommended because it penetrates well and is suitable for MDF.
Sanding: 120-grit sandpaper is ideal for lightly sanding before priming to improve paint adhesion. After priming, sand very lightly again with 220- to 320-grit sandpaper to create a smooth surface for the topcoat. It is always important to thoroughly remove dust, for example, using a tack cloth or a slightly damp cloth.
If you are using a brush, choose one that is not too wet to avoid drips and the formation of bubbles.
Good luck!
PeoDaniel schrieb:
Choose brushes that are not too wet to avoid drips and blistering. Absolutely, I agree! And remember: after the first coat, allow some time for any adhesive residues in the wood or MDF to escape—that makes the process work much better. Patience is really half the battle with these kinds of projects. 😇
I would like to add that bubbles can also form when using solvent-based varnishes if they are applied too thickly. Therefore, it is better to apply thin layers and varnish at room temperature.
I have also had good experiences with intermediate sanding: using 320 grit sandpaper after each dry coat - this improves adhesion and results in a smooth surface.
If you have any questions about primer, feel free to ask!
I have also had good experiences with intermediate sanding: using 320 grit sandpaper after each dry coat - this improves adhesion and results in a smooth surface.
If you have any questions about primer, feel free to ask!
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Annikakau1 Oct 2022 17:18Ramon4 schrieb:
Bubbles can also form due to solvent-based coatings if applied too thickly. That sounds very logical, thanks! I was also wondering if water-based varnishes might be better since they smell less chemical. Can someone tell me if water-based acrylic paints are suitable for MALM, or do they have poorer abrasion resistance or adhesion?
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