ᐅ What are some DIY ideas for adding color to Ikea Hemnes furniture?

Created on: 20 Jul 2020 19:36
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koknud
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koknud
20 Jul 2020 19:36
Hello everyone,

I am currently planning to creatively customize my Ikea Hemnes furniture with colors to match my interior design. I am especially interested in which DIY techniques you would recommend to best alter the surface of the Hemnes furniture without compromising stability or functionality.

Do you have experience with different painting methods such as chalk paint, spray paint, or decoupage? Or perhaps tips for using wallpaper, film wraps, or other materials? I would also like to know how to best prepare common problem areas like the original finish or potential surface porosity.

Additionally, it would be interesting to hear how durable these modifications are in everyday use, especially for frequently used pieces like dressers and cabinets.

I look forward to practical advice, detailed instructions, or pitfalls to avoid. Thanks in advance!
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rigau
21 Jul 2020 07:43
I would definitely recommend sanding the furniture well before painting, especially the lacquered surfaces. Chalk paint usually covers very well and only requires a thin protective topcoat. You can use adhesive films effectively if the surfaces are very clean and smooth to prevent bubbling. If you choose to use paint, be sure to apply several thin layers.
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Nadine
21 Jul 2020 20:22
Hello koknud,

I really like your question because the Hemnes series, with its fairly simple design, offers plenty of room for creative approaches. Regarding painting techniques: chalk paint is especially popular since it adheres well without much sanding. However, if you use the furniture frequently in daily life, it is important to apply a clear sealant (for example, wax or matte polyurethane).

About surface treatment: Hemnes furniture usually has a lacquer coating that is smooth and slightly glossy. To ensure good paint adhesion, I recommend lightly sanding with 120-grit sandpaper, just enough to roughen the surface without removing the coating completely.

Alternatively, you can use wallpaper or self-adhesive vinyl films, which are a great way to change surfaces quickly and with little effort. Just be sure to thoroughly degrease the surface beforehand, or they won’t stick well.

When choosing films, pay attention to durability, especially on edges and frequently used areas. Special furniture films or matte films with a protective layer can be a good option here.
rigau schrieb:
I would definitely recommend sanding the furniture well before painting, especially the lacquered surfaces.

I agree, that’s really important.

In general: preparation is key, otherwise the result can quickly look messy or the paint may peel.
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ixlu1
22 Jul 2020 14:08
Hey koknud! Great that you’re taking on such a project!!! 😊

I have personally painted a few Hemnes dressers with chalk paints from various brands and find that the colors look really great and remain very durable even after sealing. It’s best to test a small area in an inconspicuous spot beforehand.
Nadine schrieb:
Regarding painting techniques: Chalk paint is especially popular because it adheres well without much sanding needed.

That’s really true! I was skeptical at first too, but it’s surprisingly easy.

What I also recommend: Use stencils or stickers for masking so the painted areas stay nice and clean.
If you like, you can add color accents with different shades to give the Hemnes a completely new look!

And don’t get discouraged if it’s not perfect right away, practice makes perfect! Have fun crafting!!!!! 🤩