Problem

Can I sand laminate furniture before painting?

Paint may not grip laminate furniture if the glossy surface is not scuffed.

Answer

Yes. Clean laminate, then scuff lightly with 220 or 320 before primer. Do not sand through the laminate.

Why it happens
Laminate is a hard, slick surface. It needs light scuff sanding and proper cleaning before primer.
Recommended grit
Use 220 or 320 to scuff laminate before primer.
Wet or dry
Dry.
Success check
The surface is clean, dull, and evenly scuffed without exposed substrate.

What to do

  1. Clean the laminate surface first.
  2. Scuff lightly with 220 or 320.
  3. Remove dust completely.
  4. Apply a primer made for slick surfaces.
Avoid: Do not sand through the laminate layer.

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