Can I use chalk paint on particle board?

Question

Does anyone know if it's possible to paint particle board with water based chalk paint?? A professional painter told me its not because the particle board will warp or something. I have really ugly particle board cabinets in my laundry room that I'd like to paint.

Denise Simpson · Answer

I would try one door or side of your cabinet and put some sealer let it dry, then do the chalk pain and see how you like it.. they have the spray chalk pain which might be better than the brush on, cool idea tho

Rosie Walsh · Answer

@SusieSky - suggest you buy a really good quality primer/sealer, following all directions. Then make DIY chalk paint and try it. Chalk paint adheres very well, I've found.

Danielle · Answer

@susie sky You can definitely paint particle board, if you're careful. Pro painters hate particle board because it is finicky and I don't blame them, but the reality is a lot of us have a LOT of particle board and not necessarily the budget to replace it with real wood. The key to painting particle board is PREP, PREP, PREP! Seriously. I mean it. LOTS of prep. First, it has to be completely cleaned and degreased, so get out the TSP and prepare to scrub. Once everything is squeaky clean and degreased sand very lightly with 80 grit sand paper, just enough to take the shine down, be very careful not to oversand. Tack cloth everything clean again, then prime with Kilz oil based spray primer. I have tried Zinsser and a couple of other brands and I always come back to the Kilz in the end. Once your primer is dry (I always wait a full 24 hours. People will say that's overkill but I've tried going sooner and the results just aren't half as good) sand with 120 grit sand paper to smooth any little drips or uneven spots and tack cloth that. Now, hallelujah you're ready for the fun part. Paint like you normally would, the oil based primer will keep your particle board from swelling or warping and provide a nice surface for your chalk paint to adhere to.

Good luck with your laundry room, and please consider posting before and after photos. We all love to see other peoples success stories!

Ilona Elliott · Answer

Yes, like Rosie Walsh said just get a really good primer on it first. I haven't used chalk paint but I've done cabinets and use a small foam roller for a smooth finish. Takes a good two or three coats though for the best results. Go for it Susie!

SusieSky · Answer

Thanks so much to folks that answered!!

Marvella · Answer

I have personally painted over particle board with a prefab already on it . I did not use anything but the chalk paint. In this case I used Dixie bell paint in duck egg blue. The results where amazing! No prep other than cleaning well with hot water and dawn dish soap. Then a clean water rinse. Chalk paint is made specifically for paint n go ! If it is just bare particle board I would seriously use kills first! Good luck ad have fun !

Marvella · Answer

Ps I’m not a Dixie bell seller just a independent woman who loves to paint! I use all kinds of chalk paints.

Can I use chalk paint on particle board?

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Can I use chalk paint on particle board?

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