A straightforward, step-by-step guide to painting laminate furniture and styling an affordable kids’ room.
Just when we thought Regan’s bedroom refresh was finished, the dresser begged for a quick makeover. One part of furniture updates I don’t often cover in detail is how to paint laminate furniture—the technique matters, or the finish won’t last.
Laminate surfaces can be unforgiving—paint can bubble, peel, or chip if the surface isn’t prepared and primed correctly. I picked up an inexpensive five-drawer laminate dresser from Walmart to replace the long dresser we previously had, because the room layout needed a taller piece.
I chose this dresser because of the faux cane webbing detail on the drawer fronts—it coordinates nicely with the cane on Regan’s nightstand. Walmart is often my go-to when I need affordable, good-looking furniture quickly.
The dresser arrived black, which didn’t suit the soft tones of the room, so a fresh coat of paint was the obvious fix. Assembly had a minor alignment issue—possibly from shipping—but it was a small hiccup and the piece still turned out beautifully.
How to Paint Laminate Furniture
Supplies
- KILZ Original primer or another shellac-based/oil-based primer
- Respirator mask for strong fumes
- 1.5″ angled paint brush
- Fine-grit sandpaper
- Acrylic-based paint or waterborne alkyd enamel
Paint Tip
For durable adhesion, always use an oil- or shellac-based primer on laminate. Paint in low humidity and allow the finish to fully cure before regular use to prevent chipping and premature wear.
Steps
This primer has been a workhorse in our projects. When working with oil- or shellac-based primers, make sure the room is ventilated and wear a respirator—these products give off strong fumes.
- Prime the surface. After assembling the dresser and removing all hardware, apply an even coat of KILZ Original or another shellac/oil-based primer. I usually skip sanding before priming because the oil-based primer bonds well to slick laminate.
Open windows and ventilate the space while priming. A respirator is recommended for safety.
2. Lightly sand once the primer is fully dry. Use fine-grit sandpaper to smooth the surface and remove brush marks so the topcoat goes on smoothly.
3. Apply 1–2 even coats of your topcoat. Use an acrylic-based or waterborne alkyd enamel paint. For this dresser I used Fusion Mineral Paint in the shade Bellwood and applied smooth, even strokes.
For safety, always anchor dressers in kids’ rooms to prevent tipping.
This laminate paint refresh only took a few hours from start to finish and the result was exactly what the room needed.
I styled the dresser top with cheerful, budget-friendly finds—like a floral lamp that complements Regan’s chinoiserie wallpaper—and a sunburst mirror that adds a bright, kid-friendly touch.
I added a plant in a fluted planter for a touch of life and used a small basket tray to corral books, toys, and everyday items that tend to accumulate on dresser tops.
This corner of Regan’s room now feels cozy and organized, with plenty of storage for school clothes and daily needs as she settles into big-girl routines.
I also gathered a few vintage-inspired decor pieces and affordable furniture options from Walmart Home that complement the room. The Little Seeds collection is a favorite for kid-friendly, nostalgic styles.
Vintage Inspired Kids’ Room Decor & Furniture
With the dresser refreshed and the final styling touches in place, Regan’s big girl bedroom feels complete. She’s growing up fast, and this room reflects that gentle transition—still cozy, but a bit more grown-up.
Here’s to an organized, joyful space where new adventures begin.
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