Q I’m going to buy some particleboard storage closets. How can I finish them so the surface will be
smooth?
A First, particleboard is really not meant to be smooth. Second, anyone who’s tried to paint or seal particleboard will tell you it’s a ton of work! So, you may want to consider buying a Melamine or unfinished wood storage closet materials.
If you still want to build your own storage closets from particleboard, here’s what we recommend:
Sand the surface with 80- to 100-grit sandpaper and round the edges slightly.
Fill in rough areas with spackling compound or wood putty if you plan to varnish it. Pay special attention to edges because they’re the roughest and most porous part.
Sand thoroughly and then remove dust with a tack cloth.
Prime and paint the surfaces, lightly sanding between coats. You can also apply varnish, again sanding between coats. Build up your coats (it may take two or three) until you have a smooth surface.
