Hello everyone,
I am considering painting my IKEA Malm furniture myself to give it a personalized look. I have read that the surface is laminated with melamine, which might be challenging.
My question is: Is it really possible to paint these Malm pieces without the paint peeling off or failing to adhere properly? What should I specifically pay attention to when preparing the surface and choosing the paint?
I would appreciate tips on suitable sanding methods, primers, whether there are certain paints or types of finishes that work better, and any other important points to keep in mind when working with Malm furniture.
Thanks in advance!
I am considering painting my IKEA Malm furniture myself to give it a personalized look. I have read that the surface is laminated with melamine, which might be challenging.
My question is: Is it really possible to paint these Malm pieces without the paint peeling off or failing to adhere properly? What should I specifically pay attention to when preparing the surface and choosing the paint?
I would appreciate tips on suitable sanding methods, primers, whether there are certain paints or types of finishes that work better, and any other important points to keep in mind when working with Malm furniture.
Thanks in advance!
Z
zarJody684 Aug 2022 13:52Regarding sanding:
It is important not to sand the foil surface too aggressively to avoid damaging the substrate board. A light intermediate sanding with 220 grit is usually sufficient.
For priming, special adhesion primers designed for smooth plastic surfaces are suitable. These provide a stable base for the paint.
In addition, good room ventilation is essential to prevent dust settling on the freshly painted furniture.
It is important not to sand the foil surface too aggressively to avoid damaging the substrate board. A light intermediate sanding with 220 grit is usually sufficient.
For priming, special adhesion primers designed for smooth plastic surfaces are suitable. These provide a stable base for the paint.
In addition, good room ventilation is essential to prevent dust settling on the freshly painted furniture.
zarJody68 schrieb:
You should be careful not to sand the foil surface too muchExactly, otherwise the surface will be damaged. Only sand lightly, do not sand through to the wood.
A few weeks ago, I painted my Malm tabletop and was initially unsure because of the material.
That worked well for me. It was important for me to allow enough drying time and to sand between the coats.
I can only confirm that; without a primer, the paint would have peeled off quickly. Thanks also to everyone who helps here. I really have respect for these kinds of DIY projects 🙂
toril schrieb:
Definitely roughen the surface with fine sandpaper (grit 180-220)
That worked well for me. It was important for me to allow enough drying time and to sand between the coats.
todunar schrieb:
A primer is really worth its weight in gold!
I can only confirm that; without a primer, the paint would have peeled off quickly. Thanks also to everyone who helps here. I really have respect for these kinds of DIY projects 🙂
Thank you all for the quick and helpful responses!
I have one more specific question: When choosing paint, do I really have to use water-based acrylic paint, or are solvent-based paints also a good option?
I have read that solvent-based paints are often more durable, but maybe more difficult to apply and unpleasant in terms of odor.
What is your experience with painting furniture in everyday use? More water-based or solvent-based? Thanks!
I have one more specific question: When choosing paint, do I really have to use water-based acrylic paint, or are solvent-based paints also a good option?
I have read that solvent-based paints are often more durable, but maybe more difficult to apply and unpleasant in terms of odor.
What is your experience with painting furniture in everyday use? More water-based or solvent-based? Thanks!
teopo schrieb:
Do I really have to choose water-based acrylic paint for the finish, or are solvent-based paints also practical?For indoor use and everyday furniture, I recommend water-based acrylic finishes. They have low odor, are more environmentally friendly, and easier to apply.
Solvent-based finishes do provide a slightly harder surface but can emit toxic fumes and require protective measures.
For plywood furniture, the flexibility of acrylic also makes sense so that the finish does not crack more quickly when the furniture apparently moves slightly.
toril schrieb:
For indoor use and everyday furniture, I recommend water-based acrylic paints.Water-based is practical and cures well.
Definitely sufficient for normal furniture use.
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