Transforming Your Space with Painted Toden Shelving: A Simple Guide
At Toden, we pride ourselves on creating strong, durable shelves and work surfaces that are not only functional but also environmentally conscious, incorporating recycled plastics into our designs. But did you know that our products are also incredibly easy to customize to match any room in your home? While Toden products are pre-finished and don't need to be painted, you might want to match your shelves to your wall color or adding a pop of color to a space. Painting Toden products is a straightforward process that anyone can tackle.
Why Paint Toden Products?
One of the standout features of our shelves and work surfaces is their versatility. While they come in a sleek, neutral finish, we know that sometimes you want your home or workspace to reflect your personal style. Painting your Toden shelves allows you to seamlessly integrate them into any room, whether it's a vibrant kids' bedroom, a stylish home office, or a functional garage. The durable plastic surfaces are designed to hold paint well, giving you the freedom to get creative with your decor.
Getting Started: What You’ll Need
Before you start painting, it’s essential to gather the right materials. Here's a quick checklist:
- Fine-grit sandpaper (220-grit is ideal)
- Spray primer for plastics (like Rust-Oleum Plastic Primer)
- Spray paint or paint suitable for plastics (for a smoother finish)
- Paint roller or brush (if you prefer a traditional application)
- Drop cloths or newspaper (to protect your work area)
- Safety gear (mask, gloves, and eye protection)
- Bonus If using a traditional roll or brushing paint, using a paint conditioner like Floetrol makes it incredibly easy to get an even, flat finish with no texture.
Step 1: Prepping the Surface
Preparation is key to achieving a smooth, professional-looking finish. Start by lightly sanding the surface of your Toden components. This step is crucial because it creates a slightly rough texture that helps the primer and paint adhere better. Use 220-grit sandpaper and make sure to sand evenly across the entire surface.
After sanding, wipe down the shelves with isopropyl alcohol to remove any dust or debris. Ensure the surface is completely dry before moving on to the next step.
Step 2: Applying the Primer
Priming is essential when painting plastic surfaces. A spray primer like Rust-Oleum Plastic Primer is a great choice because it bonds well with plastic and creates an ideal base for your paint, but you can use any primer that adheres well to plastic. Hold the can about 10-12 inches away from the surface and apply the primer in light, even coats. It’s better to do multiple thin layers rather than one thick coat to avoid drips and ensure even coverage.
Allow the primer to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes or more. Don’t rush this step, as proper drying time ensures that your paint will adhere properly and last longer.
Step 3: Painting Your Toden Shelves
Once the primer is dry, it’s time to paint! If you're using spray paint, follow the same technique as with the primer: light, even coats applied from a consistent distance. For those who prefer using a roller or brush, plan to apply at least two coats of paint for the best results. The first coat will provide coverage, while the second coat will give you a smooth, even finish.
When rolling or brushing, start with a light first coat and let it dry completely before applying the second coat. This will prevent streaks and ensure a uniform color. Check out the video above for more tips and tricks.
Step 4: Final Touches
After the final coat of paint has dried, inspect your work. Touch up any areas that need a little extra attention, and remove any painter's tape used to protect edges or surfaces. Once everything is dry and set, your Toden shelves are ready to be installed and admired!
Why Choose Toden?
Our products are built to last, with the added bonus of being easy to customize. Whether you're looking to blend your shelves seamlessly with your decor or make a bold statement with bright colors, painting your Toden surfaces is a simple way to achieve your design goals. With the right prep work and materials, you can create a professional-looking finish that adds both style and functionality to any room.
So, go ahead and get creative! With Toden, transforming your space is easier than ever.
