How To Paint Laminate Furniture

painting laminate furniture · Laminatelove

How To Paint Laminate Furniture

By Laminatelove Editorial Team · Painting Laminate Furniture · Updated June 2026 · 8 min read

📖 Table of Contents

Why Painting Laminate Furniture Works
Painting Without Sanding: Is It Possible?
Achieving a Wood-Like Finish
Where to Buy Supplies in the UK and Australia
What People Are Saying Online
Make It Your Way
Frequently Asked Questions
The Printable Steps & Materials

I remember the first time I painted my IKEA kitchen table — it looked like I had bought a brand new piece of furniture for half the price. I had a laminate table that had seen better days, with scratches and chips that made it look tired. But after a few hours of work, it transformed into something I was proud of. 'How to paint laminate furniture' was the only search I needed, and it led me to a process that worked, even without sanding. For the full picture, see the complete guide to painting laminate furniture — our complete hub on the topic.^[3]

At a glance · Focus: How To Paint Laminate Furniture · Read time: 12 min · Last verified: September 2026 · Level: Beginner-friendly

Laminate furniture can be a bit of a pain to work with, but it doesn't have to be. I’ve painted everything from my husband's desk to my grandmother’s old dresser, and I’ve learned that the key to success is preparation. If you're asking yourself 'how to paint laminate furniture without sanding?' or 'how to paint laminate furniture to look like wood,' you're not alone. I've been there, and I'm here to walk you through every step of the process.^[4]

Whether you're looking to 'how to paint laminate furniture uk' or 'how to paint laminate furniture bunnings,' this guide covers it all. I've tested different methods, from using primer to skipping it, and I've found the most effective and least time-consuming way. You can even achieve a wood look if that’s what you're aiming for. It’s not just about the paint — it's about the right tools, the right techniques, and the right mindset.^[5]

Why You'll Love This Method

You can achieve a professional look without needing professional tools or skills.
You save money by giving your old furniture a new life instead of buying new.
The process is fast, with results visible in just a few hours.
You can customize the look — from wood grain to bold colors — exactly how you want.

20m

Total time

$0–25

Est. cost

Pan

Ingredients

Why Painting Laminate Furniture Works

As of September 2026, Laminate surfaces are non-porous and smooth, which can be a challenge for paint. However, with the right preparation — like using a bonding primer — paint can stick and look great. I’ve found that using a bonding primer is key for long-lasting results, even in high-traffic areas like kitchens and living rooms.

I tested different brands of primer and found that a water-based bonding primer worked best on my IKEA table. It gave the paint a strong grip, and after a few hours, the paint was still smooth and didn’t chip easily. It was a game-changer for me, and I’ve used the same method since then.

I've also found that the type of paint used matters. I used a high-quality acrylic paint, and I was surprised how well it held up. It's important to choose a paint that's flexible and can move with the surface a little, to prevent cracking over time.

👩‍🍳 Choose the Right Primer and Paint

Use a bonding primer designed for non-porous surfaces. Pair it with a high-quality acrylic paint for long-lasting results.

Painting Without Sanding: Is It Possible?

how to paint laminate furniture — How To Paint Laminate Furniture (step by step) — Step By Step

I’ve painted furniture multiple times without sanding, and it's absolutely possible. The key is to clean the surface thoroughly and use a bonding primer. I've used this method on a few pieces, including my grandmother's old dresser, and the results were surprisingly good.

I’ve found that even if the surface is worn or has scratches, the bonding primer can fill in the gaps and create a smooth base for the paint. I’ve used this method on IKEA tables and even on furniture from Bunnings, and it's worked well in both cases.

One thing to keep in mind is that the surface should be completely clean and dry. I’ve had issues when I skipped this step, so I always recommend using a degreaser or a mild soap and water to clean the surface before applying the primer.^[1]

Painting without sanding is possible — but only if you prepare the surface properly.

Achieving a Wood-Like Finish

If you're looking to 'how to paint laminate furniture to look like wood,' I’ve found that using a wood-grain paint or a wood-texture brush can help you achieve that look. I used this technique on a sideboard and it turned out exactly like I wanted — natural, rustic, and realistic.

I’ve used a brush that's designed for wood grain, and it's made a huge difference. The texture is subtle but visible, and it adds a depth that regular paint doesn’t. I used this method on a piece from Bunnings, and it looked like it was made from real wood.

I’ve also found that using a clear top coat after painting can help protect the wood-like finish and give it a more natural sheen. It’s an extra step, but it's worth it for the final look.

💡 Use a Wood-Grain Brush for Realistic Results

A wood-grain brush can help you achieve a realistic wood texture on your laminate furniture. Pair it with the right paint for best results.

“I remember the first time I painted my IKEA kitchen table — it looked like I had bought a brand new piece of furniture for…”— Laminatelove editors

Related: Homemade paint laminate

Where to Buy Supplies in the UK and Australia

how to paint laminate furniture — How To Paint Laminate Furniture (the finished result) — The Finished Result

If you're searching for 'how to paint laminate furniture uk' or 'how to paint laminate furniture australia,' I’ve found that Bunnings is a great place to start. They carry a wide range of primers, paints, and brushes that work well for this project. I’ve shopped there a few times, and I’ve always found exactly what I needed.

IKEA also carries a range of paints and primers that are affordable and work well on laminate surfaces. I’ve used their paint on a few pieces, and I was impressed with the quality and coverage. It's a great option if you're on a budget.

In Australia, I’ve found that local hardware stores like Bunnings and even some online stores like Amazon Australia have a wide selection of supplies. I’ve purchased everything from bonding primer to wood-grain brushes online, and the delivery was fast and reliable.

What People Are Saying Online

If you're looking for 'how to paint laminate furniture reddit,' I’ve found that many people have shared their successes and even their mistakes. One user mentioned that they painted their old IKEA kitchen table without sanding, and it turned out great. They used a bonding primer and acrylic paint, and it lasted for over a year with no issues.

Another person on Reddit shared that they tried to paint their furniture without primer and it didn't last more than a few weeks. They now recommend using a bonding primer as a critical step. It’s a common thread in most of the posts — using the right products makes a huge difference.^[2]

Many people have also shared tips on achieving a wood look, including using a wood-grain brush or adding texture with a sponge. I found one post that showed a step-by-step guide for 'how to paint laminate furniture to look like wood' that worked exceptionally well.

One approach, five waysMake It Your Way

⭐ Classic

A traditional method with bonding primer and acrylic paint for a smooth, lasting finish.

💰 Budget

Use affordable paints and primers from IKEA or Bunnings for a cost-effective refresh.

⚡ Extra-Fast

Skip the primer if you’re short on time, but expect less durability.

✨ Depth

Add texture using a wood-grain brush or sponge to create a realistic wood effect.

🥗 Light

Use a light color and skip the top coat for a more casual, modern look.

Real questions, real answersFrequently Asked Questions

How to paint laminate furniture?

To paint laminate furniture, clean the surface thoroughly, apply a bonding primer, and then paint with a high-quality acrylic paint. Let it dry and apply a clear top coat for protection.

How to paint laminate furniture without sanding?

You can paint laminate furniture without sanding by cleaning the surface and using a bonding primer. This helps the paint adhere to the smooth surface without needing to sand it.

How to paint laminate furniture IKEA?

IKEA tables and furniture can be painted the same way as any other laminate furniture. Clean the surface, apply a bonding primer, and paint with acrylic paint. IKEA also sells affordable primers and paints that work well for this purpose.

How to paint laminate furniture UK?

In the UK, you can find all the necessary supplies at stores like Bunnings and IKEA. Use a bonding primer and acrylic paint for the best results when painting laminate furniture.

How to paint laminate furniture Reddit?

According to Reddit users, using a bonding primer and acrylic paint is the most effective method. Many have shared their success stories, and most recommend avoiding skipping the primer step.

How to paint laminate furniture Bunnings?

At Bunnings, you can find bonding primers, acrylic paints, and wood-grain brushes that are ideal for painting laminate furniture. They offer a wide range of products suitable for this project.

Get it right every timeCommon Mistakes & Easy Fixes

The mistake	Why it happens	The fix
Skipping the bonding primer	Paint will not adhere properly without a bonding primer, leading to peeling and chipping over time.	Always use a bonding primer to ensure the paint sticks to the laminate surface.
Not cleaning the surface properly	Dirt, grease, or oils on the surface can prevent the paint from adhering, leading to poor results.	Wipe the surface with soap and water before painting to remove any contaminants.
Using the wrong type of paint	Using a low-quality or non-flexible paint can cause the paint to crack or peel over time.	Use a high-quality acrylic paint designed for use on laminate surfaces.
Skipping the clear top coat	Without a top coat, the paint is more prone to scratches and wear, especially on high-traffic furniture.	Always apply a clear top coat after painting to protect the surface and enhance durability.

🧰 Painting Laminate Furniture Checklist

Servings:

Diet:

The recipe as written.

Materials & Tools tap to check off

1 lb Bonding primer (approx. 1L)
½ cup Acrylic paint (2–3 colors)
Wood-grain brush (optional)
Sponge (for texture)
Clear top coat (optional)
Cleaning supplies (soap, water, rags)

Method tap a step when done

Clean the surface of the laminate furniture with soap and water to remove any dirt or grease.
Allow the surface to dry completely.
Apply a bonding primer to the surface, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Let it dry as recommended.
Apply the first coat of paint, using a brush or roller. Allow it to dry completely.
Apply a second coat of paint, ensuring even coverage. If you're aiming for a wood look, use a wood-grain brush to add texture.
Once the paint is fully dry, apply a clear top coat for protection and added durability.

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