Particle board (particle board or chipboard) is a board made from a mixture of wood chips and synthetic resin glue which is then pressed into a hard sheet. This type of board is very light and can be found at cheap furniture stores or small decor stores. Because it is made of wood chips, it is softer and more prone to damage than solid wood. This makes particleboard easier to scratch and harder to paint. If you want to paint particleboard, sand it gently, apply a light coat of primer, and paint multiple coats to get the desired result.
Step
Part 1 of 2: Applying Primer on Particle Board
Step 1. Remove any hardware or accessories that do not need to be painted
If you're painting particleboard furniture or repairing cabinets, there may be metal hinges or handles that don't need painting. Use a screwdriver to carefully pry open any hardware, hinges, or furniture accessories that don't need painting. Be careful because particleboard is very easy to break.
- If you paint your furniture with particleboard, it will be easier to take it apart and paint each board separately. If that's the case, follow the assembly instructions in reverse to carefully disassemble the parts you want to paint.
- Make sure you store all hinges, hardware, screws, and anything else that is disassembled from this particle board in a safe place where there is no risk of loss.
Step 2. Sand the board with 120 grit paper
A laminate or gloss finish on the particleboard will prevent the paint from sticking. Use medium to fine grit sandpaper-about 120-to sand the surface of the board you want to paint. Sand lightly, just enough to remove shine and expose the wood.
- Particleboard is so soft that it's easy to work with and move, but it's also easier to scratch and damage. Use light pressure when sanding to avoid damaging the board.
- Use a vacuum cleaner or shop-vac to remove any dust that results from sanding.
- To keep your home from falling apart, do all the sanding, primer, and particleboard painting on the outside.
Step 3. Coat the particleboard with a coat of oil-based primer
The hardest part about painting particleboard is getting the paint to stick to the surface. Once the board is sanded, use a wide brush to coat it with an oil-based primer. Make sure all hard-to-reach areas are covered so that the entire surface of the board is primed.
- A water-based primer will soak into the particleboard and cause it to swell. Always use an oil-based or solvent-based primer for painting particleboard.
- Oil-based primers are usually available at your local hardware or hardware store. If you're not sure which type to choose, ask the staff to help you choose the right primer and paint.
Step 4. Leave the primer for 30 minutes to an hour to dry completely
The primer must be completely dry before the board can start painting. Dry the particle board for 30 minutes to 1 hour to give it time to dry completely.
- Check the manufacturer's instructions on the packaging of your chosen primer for more specific advice on how long to dry.
- You can check that the primer is completely dry by lightly scraping your fingernail against the surface of the board. When the primer is dry, the nail scratches will leave no marks and won't be able to scrape off the primer.
Part 2 of 2: Painting the Particleboard
Step 1. Paint the board with a coat of oil-based paint
Once the particleboard has been primed, you can start coating it with the paint of your choice. Dip a wide brush or roller into the oil-based paint of your choice of color. Work slowly and gradually to cover the entire surface of the board with a coat of paint.
- If you have a paint sprayer, you can also use it to paint the particleboard evenly. Spray in a thin layer to ensure the paint is applied evenly and dries quickly.
- Oil-based or varnish-based paints are the best choices for painting particleboard. However, if your pre-applied primer is oil-based, you can use a water-based paint without allowing the particleboard to absorb the water.
- Paints in a variety of colors are usually available at your local hardware or hardware store. Choose one you like and one that matches the other colors in the room where this particleboard furniture will be placed when you're done.
Step 2. Allow the paint to dry for 30 minutes to 1 hour
After the first coat of paint has been applied to the particleboard, let it dry. Leave in the sun for about an hour to dry. If you can touch the board without the paint sticking to your fingers, then the paint is dry enough to apply a second coat.
- If you live in a cooler or more humid environment, the paint may take longer to dry. It's best to give it more time than necessary before moving on to the next step, rather than painting while the previous coat is still wet.
- Consult the manufacturer's instructions for the paint you choose for more specific advice on drying times.
Step 3. Apply the next coat of paint and let it dry
Once the paint is dry to the touch, apply a second coat using the same brush or roller. Allow the paint to dry for 30 minutes to 1 hour. Repeat this process until you are satisfied with the appearance of the particleboard.
Most particleboards need 2-4 coats of paint to completely cover the primer
Step 4. Install and re-attach the hardware
When the particleboard is painted and dry to the touch, you can start putting it all together. Install the particleboard if you're taking it apart for painting, and stick on the hardware or hinges until everything is back to the way it was.
The paint may still feel soft when you start putting it back on. So, do it carefully. Alternatively, let the particleboard sit for 12-24 hours before reassembling it
Tips
- Most paints take at least a week to dry and harden completely. If you're painting particleboard furniture, don't put anything heavy on it for at least 1 week to prevent paint damage.
- You can also paint the particleboard with several thin coats of spray paint. Do this in a well-ventilated area to prevent inhalation of paint fumes.
- If you notice the paint or primer forming air bubbles as it dries, it could be because the area was not sanded properly. Wait for the area to dry, sand it again, then apply primer or paint.
