How To Paint Built In Shelves: A Personal Experience
As an avid DIY enthusiast, I recently decided to tackle the project of painting my built in shelves. I had always loved the classic look of white shelves against a bold accent wall, and I was determined to make it happen in my own home. After a bit of research and trial and error, I learned some valuable tips and tricks on how to paint built in shelves. In this article, I’ll share my personal experience and provide a step by step guide, as well as some top tips and ideas, pros and cons, and my own review and suggestion.
Step by Step Guide
Step 1: Preparation
The first step in painting built in shelves is preparation. This is arguably the most important step, as it sets the foundation for a smooth and flawless finish. Make sure to remove all items from the shelves and clean them thoroughly with a damp cloth. Sand the shelves lightly to remove any rough spots or imperfections, and then wipe them down with a dry cloth. Cover any areas you don’t want painted with masking tape or painter’s tape.
Step 2: Primer
Once you’ve prepped the shelves, it’s time to apply primer. This step is essential to ensure that the paint adheres properly and doesn’t chip or peel over time. Use a high-quality primer and apply it evenly with a brush or roller. Allow the primer to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Step 3: Paint
Now it’s time to paint! Choose a high-quality paint that’s specifically designed for trim or shelves. Apply the paint evenly with a brush or roller, taking care not to leave any drips or streaks. If necessary, apply a second coat once the first has dried completely.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas
1. Choose a paint color that complements your existing decor. 2. Use a high-quality primer to ensure proper adhesion. 3. Apply paint with a brush or roller, depending on the size of the shelves. 4. Use a small brush or foam roller to get into tight corners or edges. 5. Allow each coat of paint to dry completely before applying the next. 6. If you’re painting raw wood, consider using a wood conditioner before applying primer. 7. Don’t skimp on paint quality. High-quality paint will last longer and provide a more professional finish. 8. Consider using a gloss or semi-gloss finish for added durability. 9. Use painter’s tape to protect any areas you don’t want painted. 10. Take your time and be patient, as rushing the process can lead to mistakes and a less-than-perfect finish.
Pros and Cons
Pros: Painting built in shelves can give your space a fresh, updated look without a major renovation. It’s a relatively affordable and easy project that can be completed in a weekend. Cons: The process can be time-consuming and requires careful preparation and attention to detail. If you’re not experienced with painting, it can be easy to make mistakes or leave streaks or drips.
Personal Review and Suggestion
Overall, I’m thrilled with the results of my painted built in shelves. The classic white color really brightens up my space and makes it feel more modern. However, I will say that the process was more time-consuming than I anticipated, and it required a lot of careful attention to detail. If you’re not experienced with painting, I would suggest hiring a professional to ensure a flawless finish.
Question & Answer and FAQs
Q: Do I need to sand my shelves before painting them?
A: Yes, it’s important to sand the shelves lightly to remove any rough spots or imperfections. This will ensure that the paint adheres properly and doesn’t chip or peel over time.
Q: Can I paint built in shelves that are made of raw wood?
A: Yes, you can paint raw wood shelves. However, you may want to consider using a wood conditioner before applying primer to ensure a smooth and even finish.
Q: Do I need to apply multiple coats of paint?
A: It depends on the color and quality of your paint. In most cases, you’ll want to apply at least two coats of paint to ensure proper coverage and a smooth finish.