You can update your office desk, cabinets or countertop with a coat of paint. If you want it to look like a standard painted surface, then prep and paint it using a good quality latex paint in the sheen (matte, semi-gloss or gloss) you want.
But if you want to replicate the hard, smooth surface of laminate furniture then you want to use melamine paint. Melamine paint is plastic based and has the ability to "self-settle" so that you get a hard, smooth surface without brush or roller marks.
DIY websites will tell you that it's easy to paint with melamine paint. I beg to differ. It can be done, but it takes careful preparation and application to get a good-looking finished product.
If you follow these instructions from HGTV, you should be fine:
You will need is sandpaper (80 to 120 grit), trisodiumphosphate (TSP), a brand new high-density foam roller and tray, and melamine paint.
First, you need to sand the laminate surface. This may require a little elbow grease to remove the gloss of the laminate but it is worth the time it takes to do this as it is important for long term paint adhesion.Once the surface has been well sanded, wash with TSP (trisodiumphosphate), which is a detergent that you mix with water, designed to remove gloss and grease from surfaces. Be sure to wear gloves when handling TSP.
Once you have washed the surface, rinse thoroughly with clear water and allow the laminate surface to dry completely.
Melamine paint is designed to cover laminate surfaces. It creates a hard and durable paint surface but it best to be applied in three thin coats rather than one thick coat. The high-density foam roller is an ideal way to apply Melamine as it will not roll bubbles into the paint so the surface appears smooth and even.For vertical surfaces like cabinet doors, it is best if you remove them and place them on a horizontal surface while painting.
Once you've painted your furniture with melamine paint, leave it in a warmish place to let it "cure" for a week. "Curing" means letting it harden.
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Decorating an office space can be a delicate balancing act. On the one hand you want your office space to be inviting and pleasant for both employees and visitors, while on the other hand it must remain professional in look and feel.
Posted by: Appliance Parts | November 12, 2007 8:11 AM | Permalink to Comment