How to Paint a Formica Armoire
- 1). Remove the doors and drawers from your armoire. Unscrew the hinges and set them aside with the screws.
- 2). Move your armoire, if possible, outdoors or into a well-ventilated work space. If you must do this in your home, open the windows and cover the floor and surrounding furnishings with drop cloths.
- 3). Protect yourself with a dust mask and safety glasses.
- 4). Sand all the Formica surfaces of your armoire, including the doors and drawers, with a medium-grit sand paper. It's best to use an electric sander, as sanding can be a lot of work. You want all of the Formica surfaces to feel rough when you're done.
- 5). Mix 1 cup of ammonia with 2 cups of warm water and wipe down all of the Formica surfaces to ensure they are dust-free and paint will adhere. Allow it to dry thoroughly.
- 6). Prime the surfaces with a bonding primer. Use a paint roller to roll the sealer for even coverage. Allow the first coat to dry for 24 hours, then apply a second coat of primer. Allow it to dry for another 24 hours.
- 7). Paint the armoire with the color of your choice, using oil or latex interior paint. Again, use a roller to get a smooth, even coat on all flat surfaces.
- 8). Allow the first coat of paint to dry and give it a second coat. After the second coat dries, you can apply decorative painting techniques, such as stenciled designs or decoupage, if desired.
- 9). Return drawers to their places, reattach the hardware, and enjoy your newly decorated armoire.