How to Paint IKEA Furniture Like a Pro

How to Paint IKEA Furniture

1. Disassemble the Furniture

   Disassemble the furniture with your tools so it's easier to prime and paint crevices. Lay the pieces on your drop cloth. (You can prime and paint a fully assembled piece, however, some areas may be missed or harder to coat.)

2. Sand the Surface

   Sand the surfaces of the disassembled pieces using 120-grit sandpaper. Sanding the surfaces helps rough them up and create friction so that the primer and paint can get a good, solid grip.

3. Clean the Surface

   Get rid of dust with a tack or damp microfiber cloth, and wipe the furniture with a dry cloth to collect any remaining debris.

4. Prime the Piece

   Apply a water-based or shellac primer with a roller or brush. Add a second coat of primer on darker-colored IKEA furniture. Once the primer is applied, allow it to dry overnight before painting.

5. Paint Two Coats

   Use painter's tape if necessary to protect areas before you paint and achieve crisp lines. Apply two thin coats of paint for a smoother finish. You can use the same roller you used to prime, a high-quality paint brush, or a paint sprayer.

   Wait a few hours before applying the second coat of paint. Then, make touch-ups as needed. Remove the painter's tape. Allow the paint to dry for at least 24 to 48 hours.

6. Seal and Dry

   Apply a sealer with a paintbrush or a roller brush once the last coat of paint is fully dry. However, if you’re using a roller brush, go over the area with a sponge brush to get rid of any air bubbles.

   Let the furniture dry completely for a day or two before reassembling.
   

   Tip

   If you want to add an extra coat of sealer for protection, lightly sand the first coat of sealer to remove any bumps and ensure a smooth application.

How Not to Paint IKEA Furniture

• Not drying properly: It’s best practice to allow for extra dry time—whether it’s with your primer, paint, or sealer. Allow for an extra day or two between steps to get the best finish.
• Not getting a smooth finish: A super smooth roller brush can do the job well. But, if you’re looking for a more professional finish, invest in a paint sprayer.
• Incorrectly using spray paint: You can use spray paint, contrary to popular belief. Just know that it takes longer to build up layers, so it requires a little more time and patience to get an even finish.

How to Make Painted IKEA Furniture Last

• Choose a shellac-based primer for furniture that gets heavy use. This option is the best at protecting against paint chips and scratches.
• Match the primer finish to your paint finish. This maintains the look and patina of the furniture over time.
• Clean the furniture with a damp lint-free cloth. If the furniture becomes wet, it can become marked. Make sure the furniture is dried thoroughly before proceeding.
• Use a light cleaner. Dish soap and water work just fine to clean spills. Heavy-duty cleaners may have chemicals that damage the paint or sealant.