painting MDF shelves

[xyz321]

hi

read few threads here about painting MDF shelves but still not sure of few things, if soemone can help.

i need to paint some shoe storage MDF shelves in small alcove. so am not after a very good finish to be honest.

I have got some gloss paint and MDF primer.

1- i have got MDF primer but here i read some posts on this forum regarding using PVA glue (thinned) to "seal" the MDF. do i need both - glue and primer? in our case there is not much surface which is cut and exposed to air. The cut sides are against the two side walls and back wall. MDF is glued (i know!) to battons on either side.

2- what grain sand paper i use?

3- any tips to make sanding easier? i dont have an electric sander.

4- how much time do i need to allow between primer and paint?

ta
P

 

[dcdec]

1. PVA no never

2. I like silicon carbide 240 grit and use a worn piece for between coats

3. Have an extra weetabix for breakfast although sanding new work isn't hard

4. Should say on the back of the tin as manufacturers vary

 

[xyz321]

1. PVA no never

2. I like silicon carbide 240 grit and use a worn piece for between coats

3. Have an extra weetabix for breakfast although sanding new work isn't hard

4. Should say on the back of the tin as manufacturers vary

Thanks. Just one mor. Thing, do iI sand after every primer and paint coat?

Ta

 

[Robbie uk]

A gentle sand between coats is fine.

 

[xyz321]

A gentle sand between coats is fine.

ta

 

[Chunkster]

I've just painted some MDF shelves.

1- NO PVA. I used Zinsser 123 Primer. Not cheap at £15L but does a really good job.

2- Personally, I used 320 and the surface was like glass

3- Get a sanding block. You don't need to sand the hell out of it, just take the rough bits off.

4- Read the label of the primer. Zinsser stuff said 4hrs I think.

I put 6 coats on in total, 2 Primer, 2 undercoat and 2 topcoat.
I used Farrow and Balls Eggshell, wish I hadn't bothered. It's expensive and doesn't go on great. However a quick google put me right, just get a good quality topcoat and you'll be fine.