Cheap Painting Ikea Laminate Furniture

Laminate Furniture · Flipper Lane

Cheap Painting Ikea Laminate Furniture

By Flipper Lane Editorial Team · RevivedNest · Updated June 2026 · 8 min read

📖 Table of Contents

Why Painting IKEA Laminate Furniture Works
The Best Paints and Primers for IKEA Laminate
How to Prepare Your IKEA Furniture for Painting
Painting Techniques That Work for IKEA Laminate
Finishing Touches and Maintenance Tips
Make It Your Way
Frequently Asked Questions
The Printable Steps & Materials

I still remember the moment I first looked at my IKEA Lack table and felt that familiar mix of frustration and determination. The surface was sleek, modern, and undeniably cheap—but it had that glossy laminate finish that always seemed to show every smudge and scratch. I needed a way to make it look like it belonged in my living room, not like it had just survived a move. That’s when I stumbled on the idea of painting IKEA laminate furniture. It wasn’t just about changing the look of my table; it was about proving that even the cheapest furniture could be transformed into something beautiful with the right approach.

At a glance · Focus: Cheap Painting Ikea Laminate Furniture · Read time: 13 min · Last verified: August 2026 · Level: Beginner-friendly

Painting IKEA laminate furniture isn’t just a quick DIY project. It’s a full-on journey that requires patience, the right tools, and a few tricks that aren’t in the manual. I’ve spent over 30 hours experimenting with different paints, sandpapers, and primers. What I’ve learned is that the key to a successful paint job is in the preparation. Skipping even one step—like not sanding properly or not using the right primer—can turn your table into a patchwork of colors and textures that look more like a failed experiment than an upgrade.^[1]

In the end, I painted my Lack table with a matte white paint, and it’s still looking great over a year later. The cost? Less than $20. The time? Around 5 hours. And the transformation? Well, it’s the kind that makes your friends stop by just to ask how you did it. So if you’re thinking about painting your IKEA laminate furniture, this guide is your starting point. It’s not about luxury; it’s about making the most of what you have with a little creativity and effort.^[2]

Why You'll Love This Simple, Affordable Upgrade

You can transform even the cheapest IKEA furniture into something elegant and modern.
The cost is minimal, with materials often under $20 per piece.
The process is manageable for beginners with the right tools and techniques.
You’ll end up with a custom finish that looks like it was made in a design studio.

5 hours

Total time

$18.50

Per piece (paint, primer, tools)

Sandpaper (medium grit)

Paint trays

Why Painting IKEA Laminate Furniture Works

As of August 2026, IKEA’s laminate furniture is built for durability, but it also has a glossy surface that makes it difficult to paint. The key is to create a texture that the paint can grip onto. This means sanding the surface thoroughly, using a primer designed for glossy or laminate surfaces, and applying multiple thin coats of paint. I found that using a 120-grit sandpaper and then wiping the surface with a damp cloth before applying primer made the difference between a smooth, even finish and a patchy, uneven one.

Painting IKEA furniture is not just about aesthetics; it’s also about functionality. By painting my Lack table, I made it easier to clean and more resistant to scratches. The matte finish absorbed the impact of my kids’ crayons and the occasional spill, while the glossy finish would have reflected every smudge. I also discovered that using a water-based primer meant I didn’t have to worry about the fumes and could paint the table in my living room without needing to open windows all day.

The result was a table that felt like it had always belonged in my home. It was no longer just a piece of IKEA furniture; it was a part of my design. I even got compliments from friends and family who didn’t know that I’d painted it myself. It was a small investment in time and money that paid off in a big way.

👩‍🍳 Sand, Wipe, Prime: The Golden Rule

Before painting, sand the surface with medium-grit sandpaper (around 120 grit), wipe it down with a damp cloth, and apply a primer designed for glossy or laminate surfaces. This sets the foundation for a smooth, even paint finish.

Part of our Laminate furniture guide.

The Best Paints and Primers for IKEA Laminate

cheap painting ikea laminate furniture — Cheap Painting Ikea Laminate Furniture (step by step) — Step By Step

I tested several paint brands before settling on a water-based, low-VOC primer and a high-quality acrylic latex paint. The primer helped the paint adhere better to the glossy surface, and the paint provided a smooth, even finish. I found that using a primer specifically designed for glossy surfaces was worth the investment. It made the paint last longer and reduced the number of coats I had to apply.

I used a paint called Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3, which is a water-based primer that works on nearly any surface, including glossy laminate. I also used a paint from Sherwin-Williams called Emerald, which is a high-quality acrylic paint that dried quickly and had a matte finish. I used two coats of primer and three coats of paint, and the result was a table that looked like it had been professionally finished.

After a year, the paint still looks like new. I can wipe it down with a damp cloth, and it doesn’t chip or flake. It’s not perfect—there are a few spots where the paint isn’t as smooth as I’d like—but it’s still a huge improvement over the original glossy finish. I’m not sure if I would do it again, but I definitely wouldn’t change the process I used.

The right primer and paint make all the difference in a paint job on IKEA laminate furniture.

How to Prepare Your IKEA Furniture for Painting

Before you even pick up a paintbrush, you need to make sure your IKEA furniture is clean, dry, and ready to be painted. I found that using a degreaser or dish soap solution helped remove any oils or dirt that had built up on the surface over time. I also used a damp cloth to wipe the surface down and let it dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Sanding is the next step, and it’s crucial. I used a 120-grit sandpaper to rough up the surface and create a texture that the primer could adhere to. I worked in circular motions and made sure to cover every part of the furniture, even the edges and corners. After sanding, I wiped the surface with a dry cloth to remove any dust and debris.

After sanding, I applied a primer designed for glossy or laminate surfaces. I used a paint tray and a brush to apply it evenly, making sure to cover every part of the furniture. I let the primer dry for a few hours before applying the paint. This step is essential because it ensures that the paint sticks to the surface and doesn’t flake or chip later on.

💡 Prep Like You Mean It

Before painting, use a degreaser or dish soap to clean the surface, sand with 120-grit sandpaper, and apply a primer designed for glossy or laminate surfaces. This ensures the paint adheres properly and lasts longer.

“I still remember the moment I first looked at my IKEA Lack table and felt that familiar mix of frustration and determination.”— Flipper Lane editors

Painting Techniques That Work for IKEA Laminate

cheap painting ikea laminate furniture — Cheap Painting Ikea Laminate Furniture (the finished result) — The Finished Result

I used a brush to apply the paint, but I found that using a small foam roller made the job easier and faster. I applied the paint in thin, even layers, making sure to cover every part of the furniture. I also worked in a well-ventilated area to avoid breathing in the fumes and kept the surface dry while the paint was drying.

I used a technique called 'wet-on-wet' painting, where I applied the paint in quick succession before the first coat had a chance to dry. This helped create a smooth, even finish without any brush strokes or streaks. I used a brush to apply the first coat and then a foam roller for the second and third coats. I found that this technique gave the best results and made the paint job look more professional.

After painting, I let the furniture dry completely before handling it. I used a clean cloth to wipe away any excess paint and made sure the surface was smooth and even. I also used a clear topcoat to protect the paint and make it more durable. This step was optional, but I found it helped the paint last longer and made it easier to clean.

Finishing Touches and Maintenance Tips

Once the paint was dry, I applied a clear topcoat to protect the surface and make it more durable. I used a water-based, clear acrylic topcoat that dried quickly and didn’t leave any residue on the surface. This step helped the paint last longer and made it easier to clean.

I also made sure to maintain the furniture by wiping it down with a damp cloth and avoiding harsh cleaners or abrasive materials. I found that using a mild dish soap solution was the best way to clean the surface without damaging the paint. I also avoided exposing the furniture to direct sunlight or heat sources, which could cause the paint to fade or crack over time.

The final result was a table that looked brand new and felt like it had always been part of my home. It was a small investment in time and money that paid off in a big way. I wouldn’t say it’s the best thing I’ve ever done, but I’d definitely do it again if I needed to update my furniture.

One approach, five waysMake It Your Way

⭐ Classic

The traditional approach: sand, prime, paint, and topcoat for a smooth, even finish.

💰 Budget

Use a cheaper primer and paint, and skip the topcoat to save money while still achieving a decent finish.

⚡ Extra-Fast

Use a spray paint designed for furniture and skip the sanding step for a quicker, albeit less durable, result.

✨ Depth

Add a second coat of paint and use a darker shade for a more dramatic, eye-catching look.

🥗 Light

Use a light-colored paint and skip the topcoat for a subtle, modern look that's easy to maintain.

Real questions, real answersFrequently Asked Questions

Can I paint IKEA laminate furniture without sanding?

No, sanding is essential to create a texture that the primer and paint can adhere to. Skipping this step will result in a flaky or uneven finish.

What is the best paint to use on IKEA laminate furniture?

A water-based primer and a high-quality acrylic latex paint work best. Avoid oil-based paints, as they may not adhere well to the glossy surface.

How long does the paint last on IKEA laminate furniture?

With proper preparation, the paint can last for several years. Using a clear topcoat will help it last longer and make it easier to clean.

Can I use spray paint on IKEA laminate furniture?

Yes, spray paint can be used, but it's important to sand the surface first and apply a primer. The results may not be as smooth or even as using a brush or foam roller.

What should I do if the paint starts to peel or flake?

Peeling or flaking paint is often due to improper preparation. If this happens, sand the affected area, clean it, and reapply primer and paint. Avoid using harsh cleaners on the painted surface.

Is it possible to paint IKEA laminate furniture without a primer?

It's not recommended, but if you must skip the primer, make sure to sand the surface thoroughly and use a paint that's designed for glossy surfaces. The results may not be as durable.

Get it right every timeCommon Mistakes & Easy Fixes

The mistake	Why it happens	The fix
Skipping the sanding step	The paint won’t adhere properly to the glossy surface, leading to peeling and flaking.	Sand the surface with 120-grit sandpaper before applying primer and paint.
Using the wrong type of paint	Oil-based or low-quality paints may not stick to the laminate surface, resulting in an uneven or flaky finish.	Use a water-based primer and a high-quality acrylic latex paint designed for glossy surfaces.
Not allowing the primer and paint to dry completely	Applying a second coat before the previous one is fully dry can cause the paint to become streaky or uneven.	Wait for the primer and each coat of paint to dry completely before applying the next coat.
Using too much paint in one coat	Applying too much paint at once can lead to drips, streaks, and an uneven finish.	Apply thin, even coats of paint and allow each coat to dry before applying the next one.

🧰 IKEA Laminate Paint Kit

Servings:

Diet:

The recipe as written.

Materials & Tools tap to check off

1 can Water-based primer (e.g., Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3)
1 can Acrylic latex paint (e.g., Sherwin-Williams Emerald)
2 pieces Sandpaper (120 grit)
1 can Clear topcoat (e.g., water-based acrylic)
2 pieces Paint trays
1 roll Foam roller
1 set Brushes (1-inch and 2-inch)
1 bottle Degreaser or dish soap (for cleaning)

Method tap a step when done

Clean the surface of the furniture using a degreaser or dish soap solution, then wipe it dry.
Sand the surface with 120-grit sandpaper, working in circular motions to create a texture for the primer to adhere to.
Wipe away any dust or debris with a dry cloth.
Apply the primer using a paint tray and a brush or foam roller, ensuring even coverage.
Let the primer dry completely for 2–4 hours.
Apply the paint in thin, even coats using a brush or foam roller, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next. Use 2–3 coats for best results.
Once the paint is dry, apply a clear topcoat to protect the surface and enhance durability.

Key Facts

Calories

Protein

Carbs

Fat

Fiber

0mg

Sodium