Built-in shelves can be a beautiful feature in a home—but when the color feels dated, they can quickly become the part of the room you notice for the wrong reasons.
Instead of replacing them, give them a makeover.
For this project, we're using Beyond Paint in Soft Gray to create a clean, updated look while keeping the character of the original built-ins.
What You'll Need
• Beyond Paint in Soft Gray
• General-purpose degreaser, such as Simple Green or Zep Degreaser
• Clean cloths
• 3/8-inch microfiber or woven roller
• Paint tray
• Small brush for tight areas
Step 1: Remove Everything
Take books, decorations and other items off the shelves.
This gives you a clear workspace and makes it easier to reach every surface.
Step 2: Clean the Built-Ins
Wipe down the shelves, sides, doors and trim with a general-purpose degreaser.
Remove dust, dirt, grease and wax.
The surface needs to be clean and dry before applying Beyond Paint.
Step 3: Skip the Sanding
Here's the part DIYers will love:
You don't need to sand the built-ins before applying Beyond Paint.
There's also no stripping or separate priming required. Beyond Paint's all-in-one formula contains a bonder, primer and sealer.
Step 4: Apply Your First Coat
Using your 3/8-inch microfiber or woven roller, apply an even coat of Soft Gray.
For corners and areas where a roller won't fit, use a brush as needed.
Beyond Paint can also be applied using an airless or HVLP sprayer.
Step 5: Wait Two Hours
Give your first coat a minimum of two hours of drying time before applying the next coat.
Step 6: Apply Your Second Coat
Apply the second coat, focusing on achieving consistent coverage across the shelves, sides and cabinet doors.
Two coats are encouraged for full coverage.
Step 7: Style Your Shelves
Once your makeover is complete, put your favorite books, artwork and décor back in place. The built-ins are still the same—but the entire room can feel refreshed.
Why DIYers Love Beyond Paint
Beyond Paint was created to make painting projects easier. Its water-based, all-in-one formula combines a bonder, primer and sealer, so you can transform existing surfaces without the traditional stripping, sanding and priming process.
Beyond Paint bonds to a wide variety of surfaces, including cabinets, countertops, furniture, raw wood and previously finished surfaces.
It's also specifically engineered for both indoor and outdoor projects.
Three things to remember:
• No stripping
• No sanding
• No priming
Just clean, dry and paint.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you paint built-in shelves without sanding?
Yes. Beyond Paint is designed to be used without stripping, sanding or priming. Simply make sure the surface is clean and dry before painting.
What roller should I use?
A 3/8-inch microfiber or woven roller is recommended for the best results.
Can I paint previously finished built-ins?
Yes. Beyond Paint bonds to raw wood and wood previously painted or finished with products such as oil, latex, polyurethane and varnish.
How many coats do I need?
Two coats are encouraged for full coverage, with a minimum of two hours of drying time between coats.
Can Beyond Paint be sprayed?
Yes. Beyond Paint can also be applied with an airless or HVLP sprayer.
