Archive for the ‘Crafts & Celebrations’ Category

Better Than The Movies Movie List (FREE PRINTABLE DOWNLOAD)

Tuesday, March 5th, 2024

Download this Better Than the Movies movie list PDF Printable to watch the rom-com movies after you read the Lynn Painter book. We have included every quote!

Better Than The Movies Movie List (FREE PRINTABLE)

It is no secret that I am a sucker for a YA romance, and this year my daughter and I both discovered Lynn Painter and fell in love with the Better Than the Movies book. 

The novel pays homage to all your beloved rom-com movies, featuring delightful throwbacks and clever quotes at the beginning of the chapters. 

Most of the films were ones my daughter hadn’t seen or was unfamiliar with, and we spent our summer together going through the Better Than the Movies film recommendations.

And honestly, it might be one of my favorite memories that we have shared.

As we prepare for next year’s college adventures, I’m savoring these memories together, and I wanted to inspire your next mother-daughter movie night. 

I am sure Lynn Painter has no idea how much she has meant to our family, but I’m so thankful for every moment we have shared over her senior year.   

As she’s off to study UX Design, I begged her to do one last project for our website and make a movie checklist I could share with you so YOU can replicate this moment with your teenager. 

Better Than the Movies Book

Synopsis of Better Than the Movies Book

Better Than the Movies is an endearing teen rom-com that you won’t be able to put down.

Liz Buxbaum always considered her next-door neighbor, Wes Bennett, the least likely candidate for her romantic fantasies. 

He’s been a constant annoyance since they were kids, pulling pranks like putting a frog in her Barbie Dreamhouse and hiding a severed lawn gnome head in their neighborhood book exchange. 

But now, as Liz’s forever crush, Michael, returns to town and unexpectedly bonds with Wes, she needs his help to get noticed. 

Teaming up with Wes, they concoct a fake dating plan to make Liz stand out to Michael and secure a prom date. 

But, as their scheming unfolds, Liz finds herself surprisingly drawn to Wes, leading her to question her beliefs about love and the true meaning of a Happily Ever After.

Meet Lynn Painter

Lynn Painter is my favorite YA writer, and I’d love to introduce you to her writing for you or your teenager because her books have incredible crossover appeal for adult readers. 

Lynn Painter writes cute romance novels for both teenagers and grown-ups.

She wrote books like Better Than the Movies, Mr. Wrong Number, The Do-Over, Betting on You, and Nothing Like the Movies.

She also writes articles for the Omaha World-Herald newspaper.

Lynn lives in Nebraska with her husband and children and has an addiction to rom-com movies- which is quite evident in this book.

Is it Worth it To Read Better Than the Movies?

ABSOLUTELY! I’ve read almost all of Lynn Painter’s novels, and this is the best Lynn Painter book.

This novel is also the best book club book to try with your teen.

Thanks to how the novel incorporates music and film into each chapter, you can both indulge in pop culture references. 

More importantly, this novel explores mother-daughter relationships. 

Liz’s mother has passed away and was a screenwriter who happened to love romcom films. 

Liz gets her love for these movies from her mom, so she imagines any potential romance in light of her favorite romantic comedy movies. 

We love page-turners about motherhood and this fits the young adult book bill perfectly!

Better Than the Movies Quotes

As a reader, you will notice that each chapter starts with an iconic rom-com moment.

Since Liz is navigating senior year without her mom, there are some poignant scenes as she navigates significant senior milestones.

For example, prom dress shopping without her mom becomes a pivotal plot point.

If you are a stepmom, you will find that this relationship has also been tricky for Liz.

A strong relationship that blossoms between the two enhances this story a lot. 

There isn’t a better book to dive into with your teen daughter or son! 

Is Better Than the Movies Spicy?

This novel is recommended for grades 7-9 but will equally appeal to an adult reader.

Common Sense Media recommends this young adult novel for readers 14 years old and over.

For content warnings, readers can expect some swearing and occasional references to underage drinking, kissing, and sexual innuendos. 

Lynn Painter Young Adult Books

Lynn Painter writes both young adult and adult books, so we have separated those into two categories on our Lynn Painter books list to make finding books for your teen easier.

I will keep this updated with new releases as they are announced. 

Better Than the Movies Soundtrack

Download the Better Than the Movies Soundtrack

You’ll find a special treat at the end of the book with a curated soundtrack of all the songs lovingly referenced within the story. 

Lynn Painter has made the soundtrack available online and subtitled it “The Soundtrack of Wes and Liz.” 

Where Can I Read the Better Than the Movies Bonus Chapter?

Lynn Painter offers bonus chapters for readers. 

On Lynn Painter’s website, you can read Wes Bennett’s Vivid Dream, Wes POV- Party Scene Wes and Liz’s College Road Trip, & Wes Pov- Liz’s Proposal. Download those PDF bonus chapters here

Readers can also read Better Than the Prom (Better Than the Movies #1.5), a 30-page prequel short story, to immerse themselves further in their love story.

Where are the Better Than the Movies quotes?

I’ve included each quote and corresponding chapter under each film’s descriptions.

In some cases, films are highlighted in two chapters, and these have been noted below. 

Nothing Like the Movies- Better Than the Movies Sequel

Is There a Better Than the Movies Sequel?

Good news! There is a Better than the Movies series!

Lynn Painter has announced that there will be a Better Than the Movies sequel coming in October 2024.

Titled Nothing Like the Movies, readers are promised more adventures with Wes Bennett and Liz Buxbaum. 

Nothing Like the Movies will be on store shelves in October 2024. 

Be sure to visit my complete list of Lynn Painter books and where to read them. We have included her young adult and adult books with recommended age ratings. 

Books Like Better Than the Movies

We promise to make a more formal list later, but I recommend checking out Tell Me Three Things by Julie Buxbaum as a beautiful look-alike recommendation. 

Don’t miss my Julie Buxbaum interview about her inspiration for this young adult book and the parallels it shares with this book. 

As a person who loves Julie and Lynn- is it possible that the author created her character’s last name from the author? I am dying to know!

Outdoor Movie Night Ideas

If you click on any of these films, it will take you to Prime Video for streaming but don’t forget to check your DVD collection like we did for several of these films. 

You can also visit our guide to Outdoor Movie Night Ideas for your whole family which includes lots of movie snack options.

SCROLL DOWN FOR THE PRINTABLE VERSION!

Better Than the Movies Movie List

Are you looking for the Better Than the Movies movie list from the book?

We have you covered with this list that you can browse online or print the free PDF checklist we designed for Lynn Painter fans!

This includes the movie ratings and where to stream the films.

If you love this checklist, please share this resource!

Better Than the Movies by Lynn Painter

We can all agree that Lynn Painter has impeccable movie taste. 

And for fans of the book, Lynn Painter adds a final “movie moment” in the epilogue.

In response to this movie quote- “A girl will never forget the first boy she likes,” Liz Buxbaum adds her own personal quote- “But she’ll also never forget the first boy she hates.”

So grab some popcorn and screen these beautiful movies together to create some of your very own movie moments with your kid!

Better Than the Movies PDF Movie List

TELL ME: What movie is your favorite from this list? Did you love the Better Than The Movies book? Let us know what Lynn Painter books you enjoyed reading.

The Spray Painting on Wood Furniture Technique You Need Now

Tuesday, February 27th, 2024
The Spray Painting on Wood Furniture Technique You Need Now

This EASY tutorial teaches you how spray painting on wood furniture can transform a piece. This paint job is a budget-friendly beginner project.

Painting furniture with a brush can be time-consuming, so I have fallen in love with this spray painting technique, which gives a fresh new look with a small time investment.

Today I am going to show you how to spray paint your wood furniture to give an old piece in your home a new lease on life.

Rust-Oleum Ultra Cover 2X Spray Paint

Can you use spray paint on wood?

You might be surprised to learn that spray painting on wood furniture IS a great way to update your wood furniture pieces.

I have spray-painted many pieces in our home with great success.

Much of your success with this painting project will be found in these valuable tips, including inverting your furniture when painting, using a spray grip, and picking the right spray paint for your project. 

How to Spray Paint Furniture

Today, I’m painting furniture pieces that have withstood the test of time for TEN YEARS in our home. I’d love to share some tips for your first project if you have never spray-painted furniture. 

The Spray Painting on Wood Furniture Technique You Need Now- Painting Supplies

Considerations for Spray Painting Wood:

You can scroll down to see the complete supplies list and step-by-step instructions.

Choose the Right Spray Paint:

When spray painting wood furniture, the quality of your spray paint matters. 

I’ve had great success with Rust-Oleum spray paint for its excellent coverage, fast drying times, and durable finish. 

Not only will you find a wide variety of gorgeous colors, but they also offer fabulous finishes like metal and stoneware to experiment with on other elements in your pieces.

Determine Paint Quantity:

Before starting your project, estimate how much spray paint you’ll need to cover your furniture adequately. Having extra spray paint on hand is better than running out midway through. 

Most spray paint cans indicate the coverage area on the label to help you calculate, but at minimum, you will need 2-3 cans for each project. 

Prepare Your Space for Spray Painting:

Whether you paint indoors or outdoors, ensure proper ventilation to avoid inhaling fumes and overspray. 

If painting indoors, protect surrounding surfaces from overspray with drop cloths or cardboard. You can also use a paint tent to help with this process. 

Prepping Wood for Spraying

Proper preparation is critical to any successful spray painting project.

Clean the wood thoroughly to remove dirt or grime. 

Next, sand the wood furniture for better paint adhesion. Sand any edges with your sander to smooth the top of your piece. 

Sanding Wood Furniture for Spray Painting

Taking your time when you sand your furniture is necessary to have an excellent base for painting.

Once the piece is thoroughly sanded, wipe it down with a damp cloth to prepare it for priming.

Finally, fill any imperfections with wood filler and sand smooth before painting.

Primer for Spray Painting Furniture

Apply Thin, Even Coats:

To achieve a smooth finish, apply thin, even coats of spray paint, holding the can 8-12 inches away from the surface. 

Avoid heavy application to prevent drips and runs.

Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

Consider Weather Conditions:

Temperature and humidity can affect the drying time and finish of spray paint. 

Choose a day with mild temperatures and low humidity for optimal results. 

Avoid spray painting on windy days to prevent dust and debris from sticking to wet paint.

Practice Proper Spray Painting Technique:

Practice spray painting on scrap wood or cardboard before tackling your furniture.

Practicing is especially important if this is your first time using a spray grip on your spray paint.

Maintain a consistent spraying motion and overlap each pass slightly for even coverage.

Keep the nozzle clean to prevent clogs and ensure a smooth paint flow.

Spray Painting Metal Pulls on Spray Painted Table
Spray Painting Metal Pulls on Spray Painted Table

Optional: Customize Your Hardware

If you desire, you can spray paint your hardware.

As you know, cabinet pulls and drawer handles can be expensive to replace, and sometimes older pieces have more custom-fitting hardware, so spray paint can be a great way to freshen it up.

We replaced the wooden handle with a black hardware piece and then spray-painted the old gold accessories black with a can I had in my craft supplies. 

I recommend purchasing a metallic spray paint in your desired finish.

Glaze for Spray Painting on Wood Furniture

Optional: Add An Antique Glaze

An antique glaze can add depth and dimension to your furniture piece after spray painting furniture.

Follow the instructions below for timing your application of the wood glaze after painting your piece.

Sanding Wood Furniture for Glaze
Sanding Wood Furniture for Glaze

To apply, rough up the edges with your sandpaper to expose the wood.

Sanding Wood Furniture for Glaze

Next, using a clean rag, dip it in your glaze and then apply the glaze to your piece in a circular motion.

The Spray Painting on Wood Furniture Technique You Need Now
The Spray Painting on Wood Furniture Technique You Need Now
The Spray Painting on Wood Furniture Technique You Need Now

With a clean and damp cloth, remove as much of the glaze as you would like.

I, again, removed this in a circular motion from the piece until it added a hint of variation to the wood. 

Spray Painting Furniture Paint Supplies

How to Spray Paint Wood

Materials Needed:

  1. Spray Paint Primer– Use gray if doing a dark color or white if doing a light color
  2. 1-2 Cans Rust-Oleum American Accents Ultra Cover 2X Spray Paint, any shade (I am using Moss Green)- make sure the one you choose is a spray paint for wood
  3. Rust-Oleum Standard Spray Grip (make sure you choose a paint sprayer nozzle that fits the spray paint brand you choose for your project)
  4. Rust-Oleum Decorative Glaze in Java Brown
  5. 220 Grit Sandpaper
  6. Wood Filler, if needed, for filling in imperfections
  7. Putty Knife
  8. Drop Cloth
  9. Rags
  10. Polycrylic in a Clear Satin (Water-Based)

Instructions:

  • Prepare the Surface: Wipe the entire piece down with a clean cloth to remove dirt or debris. Disassemble any drawers and hardware to prepare it for painting. Fill any spots with wood putty or wood filler that need it.
  • Sand Your Wood Furniture: Sand the wood furniture thoroughly to improve paint adhesion and create a smoother surface. Pay extra attention to sanding the edges and the top of the piece.
  • Prime the Piece: Start with your piece inverted to prevent drips and ensure full coverage. Hold your can 8 inches away from your surface and spray your primer in a sweeping motion side to side with a slight overlap. Allow the primer to dry for one hour. Once dry, put the piece right side up and finish priming the top.
  • Apply Base Coat: Now, it is time to paint over primer. Repeat the same spray painting process with your choice of Rust-Oleum American Accents Ultra Cover 2X in your favorite shade. Once the piece is fully painted, allow it to dry overnight before glazing (optional).
  • Finish with Polycrylic: Once the paint is dry, apply two coats of Polycrylic in a Clear Satin finish, giving your piece a slick, smooth finish. Use a clean paintbrush or foam brush to apply evenly.  

After you are done, make sure to allow the sealer to dry for two hours before reapplying.

I recommend allowing the piece to dry overnight before using or moving it.

Here are some FAQs on Spray Painting Wood:

Can I spray paint wood without sanding?

Yes, you can spray paint wood without sanding; however, achieving the best results depends on the quality of your wood furniture, its condition, and being mindful of the Rust-Oleum product you choose. 

When it comes to this painting project, sanding is necessary to help the spray paint stick. 

If you are determined not to sand your piece, practice spray painting on the the underside to discover if it will work. 

Remember, if the surface is not smooth, that will pull through no matter how much paint you put over it. 

How Do I Apply Wood Putty or Wood Filler to Repair My Furniture?

If your furniture piece has been well-loved, you can still achieve a smooth finish spray painting wood furniture by using a product like wood putty or wood filler to repair spots on your piece. 

Wood putty or wood filler fills gaps, holes, or cracks in wood surfaces, providing a smooth and even finish. 

It helps to improve the appearance of the wood to prepare the surface for painting, staining, or sealing.

To apply wood putty, scoop a small amount onto a putty knife or your fingers, then press it firmly into the imperfection. 

Scrape away any excess putty and allow it to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions before sanding smooth.

How to Paint Laminate Furniture Without Sanding

Can I use spray paint on laminate furniture?

Visit my how to paint laminate furniture without sanding tutorial for tips on the best primer for these types of laminate wood projects. 

To try this with spray paint technique, follow my instructions for priming laminate furniture and then use today’s spray painting tips after your piece is primed. 

Is it better to spray paint or brush paint wood?

Spray painting wood furniture is ideal for smaller pieces in your home. Use this painting technique for coffee, accent, or decorative elements around your house. 

How do I get a smooth finish with spray paint on wood?

To achieve a smooth finish, apply thin coats of paint, maintain consistent strokes, and sand between coats if necessary. If you follow my tuturial, you should have great success!

Love this tutorial?  Don’t miss these other fun home improvement projects:

How to Paint a Kitchen Table– Revitalize your kitchen table with a coat of paint. Discover easy steps to give your dining area a new lease on life.

How to Paint Laminate Furniture Without SandingDiscover the secrets of painting laminate furniture effortlessly, no sanding required! The possibilities are endless, whether it’s Ikea laminate pieces or electric fireplaces with heaters liike our family! 

Stain Picnic Table Tutorial– Enhance outdoor gatherings by staining your picnic table with this tutorial. Explore how to protect your outdoor wood furniture so you can use it year after year. 

How to Stain Wood Furniture– Bring new life to your furniture by staining it. Follow these straightforward steps to add rich color and depth to your favorite pieces.

The best part is that you can combine this staining project with today’s tutorial!

This post contains affiliate links.

Tutorial updated: February 27, 2024

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How to Candy Nuts (EASY RECIPE)

Monday, February 26th, 2024
How to Candy Nuts

Learn how to candy nuts with this candied nuts recipe that incorporates sugar and spice. This yummy no bake treat is a perfect gift to give for the holidays.

Are you ready to impress with a holiday gift that’s as easy to make as it is delicious? Look no further than this sugar & spice candied nut mix!

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe will surely become a favorite for gift-giving or holiday snacking.

Making your own flavored nut mixes might not be something you have considered for the holidays, but once you try this delicious nut mix, you will have a difficult time giving these sugared and spiced holiday nut mixes away.

What Are Candied Nuts Made Of?

Candied nuts are made by coating raw nuts in a mixture of sugar, spices, and egg whites and then baking them until golden and crispy. 

This creates a sweet, crunchy treat perfect for snacking or gifting.

How to Candy Nuts

Kitchen Equipment Needed to Candy Nuts

Mixing bowls- For mixing the nuts and spice mixture.

Measuring cups and spoons- For measuring the spices and nuts.

Baking sheet- For baking the nuts in the oven.  I recommend the Nordic Ware Big Baking Sheet for your holiday baking projects.

Parchment paper or silicone baking mat- For lining the baking sheet.

Whisk- For whisking the egg whites and spices.

Wooden spoon- For stirring nuts.

Airtight containers or packaging materials- For storing or gifting candied nuts.

How to Candy Nuts

How to Candy Nuts

You can scroll down to see the complete ingredient list and step-by-step instructions.

Preparation: Preheat your oven and line a baking sheet.

Mix Spices: Whisk together sugar, water, egg white, and spices.

Coat Nuts: Toss raw nuts in the spice mixture until evenly coated.

Bake: Spread nuts on the baking sheet and bake, stirring occasionally.

Season: Sprinkle hot nuts with coarse salt for a perfect finish.

Cool and Package: Let the nuts cool, then package them for gifting or enjoying.

Before I share the recipe, here are some answers to commonly asked questions about how to candy nuts:

Where is The Best Place to Buy Nuts for Gifts?

If you have a membership to Costco or Sam’s Club, you can buy these ingredients in bulk to save on your cost per pound.

I also found this Reddit thread on where to buy the cheapest nuts and thought it had some incredible suggestions that I wouldn’t have thought of to reduce the price on buying nuts in bulk.

How to Candy Nuts

What Are the Best Nuts for a Holiday Nut Mix?

You can choose any combination of mixed nuts that you might love or just keep things simple and roast only your absolute favorite. I’m just using three of my favorites in this recipe- pecans, almonds, and walnuts.

My favorite varieties of nuts include candied pecans, almonds, and walnuts.

How to Candy Nuts

What Other Spice Combinations Can I Try With These Candy Nuts?

These nuts are tossed with some of my favorite holiday spices- cinnamon, nutmeg, ground cloves, and allspice. 

Feel free to try building your own spice combination. 

Add cardamom for a Middle Eastern twist or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. 

Mix in ginger and cloves for a festive touch, or add a hint of cayenne for some heat. 

You can even experiment with Chinese five-spice or curry powder for more adventurous flavors.

How to Candy Nuts

How Long Do Candied Nuts Last?

Properly stored in an airtight container, these candied nuts can last up to two weeks, making them an ideal make-ahead gift for the holiday season.

How Do You Make Candied Nuts Not Sticky?

To prevent your candied nuts from becoming too sticky, spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet and stir them every 15 minutes while baking. 

Also, sprinkling them with coarse salt while still hot can help absorb excess moisture and enhance the flavor.

How to Candy Nuts

How Do I Package Nuts for Gift-Giving?

This time of year, the craft stores are loaded with food packaging for your gifts. I love to check the seasonal aisles in my local craft stores.

Nut Tins in Bulk

The important thing is that they are airtight, especially if you are giving a large amount as a gift.

While these paper boxes make a cute display, but buying nut tins in bulk will help your nuts stay fresher longer.

Strawberry Pecan Salad

What Dishes Can I Enhance With These Candied Nuts?

Looking for more recipes to incorporate candy nuts? I’ve got you covered!

Sprinkle these candy nuts over salads like my strawberry pecan salad for added crunch and sweetness.

Honestly, any fruit and candied nut combo works well in a spinach salad.

You can use them as a topping for a thick smoothie bowl or slow cooker apple oatmeal (steel cut recipe).

These can also be incorporated into dark chocolate brownies with sea salt for a fun baking twist, or simply enjoy them alone as a satisfying treat any time. 

Add these over ice cream with caramel, toffee, or chocolates for topping for an indulgent treat. If you feel ambitious, this roasted plum ice cream with cinnamon would be another fantastic option.

What Other No Bake Christmas Treats Can I Make for the Holidays?

For other easy no-bake gifts, I recommend these gluten-free cake mix cookies, this easy microwave peanut brittle, or my peppermint cheesecakes in jars.

How to Candy Nuts
How to Candy Nuts

Candied Nuts

Yield: 6 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

This easy nut mixture is created from spices in your pantry and is perfect for your holiday snacking or giving.

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar (you can use white or brown sugar)
  • 3 tablespoons water
  • 1 egg white, lightly beaten
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon allspice
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • Coarse salt for sprinkling
  • 2 cups pecans, halves
  • 2 cups whole almonds
  • 2 cups walnuts

Instructions

      1. Prep oven and baking sheet. Heat oven to 250°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
      2. Add the beaten egg white, water, sugar, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, allspice, and nutmeg to a large mixing bowl and whisk until evenly combined.
      3. Add the pecans, almonds, and walnuts to the sugar mixture and gently toss until the nuts are evenly coated.
      4. Spread the nuts in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for about 45 minutes. Every 15 minutes, remove the nuts and stir them.  When the cooking time is done, the nuts should be fragrant, and the sugar coating cooked. 
      5. Transfer the baking sheet to a wire cooling rack and sprinkle liberally with coarse salt while still hot.
      6. Allow the nuts to come to room temperature. The sugar coating will continue to harden and dry once the nuts cool. 
      7. Once cooled, store the candy nuts in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

Notes

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to make these into sweet & spicy nuts.

Recommended Products

As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Nutrition Information:
Yield: 6 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 845Total Fat: 72gSaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 62gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 337mgCarbohydrates: 45gFiber: 11gSugar: 30gProtein: 19g

TELL ME: What did you think of this candied nut recipe?

Recipe updated: February 26, 2024

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How to Paint Laminate Furniture Without Sanding

Tuesday, February 20th, 2024
How to Paint Laminate Furniture Without Sanding

Learn how to paint laminate furniture without sanding! Whether you plan to paint Ikea laminate furniture or a fireplace like us- you need this easy tutorial!

Laminate furniture often has a reputation for looking cheap. Let’s be honest- that faux grain finish does not fool anyone!

However, a simple paint job can completely transform and elevate any piece in your home in a single day, and I would love to show you how.  

How to Paint Laminate Furniture Without Sanding

Today’s painting tutorial is an excellent technique to try on new pieces.

Fresh paint can also cover up scratches, discoloration, and other imperfections on furniture you already own.  

Painting pieces to match can make a room feel cohesive. And as our decorating styles evolve, we can choose any color or finish to match where you are at NOW with your style.

What has surprised me about this process is just how easy it is.

How to Paint Laminate Furniture Without Sanding

For today’s tutorial, we will paint the electric fireplace that I featured in this guide- The Best Electric Fireplaces With Heaters

I’m excited to share with you how to make this laminate piece look more expensive than it is with a coat of paint- NO SANDING REQUIRED.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of painting laminate furniture without sanding, including the materials you’ll need and expert tips for achieving professional-looking results.

How to Paint Laminate Furniture Without Sanding

Here is a picture of our fireplace TEN YEARS after we painted it. There is no nick or chip in sight, so you are in wonderful hands today!

Understanding Laminate Furniture

Before diving into the painting process, it’s essential to understand what laminate furniture is and why it requires special preparation.

Laminate furniture is made of particleboard or MDF (medium-density fiberboard) covered with a thin layer of laminate. This synthetic material mimics the look of wood, stone, or other textures. 

This laminate layer can challenge paint adhesion, as it is smooth, non-porous, and moisture-resistant.

To paint laminate furniture without sanding, you will need a special primer, latex paint, and water-based acrylic to finish. You can scroll down to see the complete step-by-step instructions.

FAQs on Painting Laminate Furniture Without Sanding:

What is Zinnser primer?

Zinsser primer is a shellac based primer that acts as a versatile base primer for various surfaces, including laminate furniture.

This primer sticks effectively to surfaces without sanding, making it an ideal choice for prepping laminate furniture for painting. This is a top coat for your project, but you may need more than one coat depending on your furniture piece.

What kind of paint do you use on laminate furniture?

It’s essential to use really high-quality paint when painting furniture.

Latex paint is recommended for laminate surface painting projects because of its durability and smooth finish, and we have had the best success with the Benjamin Moore brand.

Many of our projects have stood up to over a decade of use without any need for retouching.

Can This Tutorial Be Used With Chalk Paint?

Yes, you can use chalk paint on laminate furniture, but I have yet to do this personally and can only provide instructions on what I’ve read elsewhere. You may not achieve the glossy results that I’ve shared today.

Follow the same steps I’ve outlined.

Once your primer is dry, you can paint your laminate furniture with chalk paint.

Keep in mind this paint will offer a matte finish.  

Be sure to add a protective topcoat to ensure durability, especially if the furniture will see regular use.

What Fireplace Paint Did You Use For This Project? 

This color is Benjamin Moore White Owl, the white paint we use in our home’s trim and furniture pieces. This piece from Architectural Digest showcases the versatility of the color and why it has become such a go-to white paint color choice! 

Do you have to sand laminate furniture before painting?

As we shared in this tutorial, using a product like Zinsser Primer eliminates the need to prime your laminate furniture. This bonding primer is designed for laminate furniture projects like this one and is a great option for Ikea furniture or painting laminate cabinets in your home. 

Can I Use Oil-Based Acrylic On Laminate Furniture?

We learned the hard way that using an oil-based acrylic finish on white furniture can lead to undesirable yellowing over time. 

Two dressers I had finished began to slowly turn yellow, a devastating DIY mistake that meant I had to repaint our pieces to restore the white color. 

Oil-based acrylic finishes contain ingredients prone to oxidation, a chemical process that can cause the paint to develop a yellowish hue when exposed to light and air. 

Additionally, oil-based acrylic finishes may take longer to cure and harden compared to water-based alternatives, leaving the furniture vulnerable to damage and staining during the curing process.

As a result, the finish may not provide adequate protection against everyday wear and tear, making the furniture more susceptible to scratches, stains, and other forms of damage.

I ALWAYS recommend a water-based acrylic finish or clear protective coating to prevent yellowing.

How to Paint Laminate Furniture Without Sanding: A Step-by-Step Guide

Materials Needed:

  1. Zinsser Primer
  2. Latex Paint 
  3. Water Based Polycrylic in Clear Satin (no substitutions- this product will not yellow your furniture)
  4. Drop Cloth
  5. Foam Roller
  6. Paint Brush

Instructions:

  1. Apply Zinsser Primer:
    • Clean the laminate surface thoroughly to remove any dirt or grease.
    • Apply a coat of Zinsser Primer to the surface using a paintbrush or foam roller.
    • Ensure even coverage and allow the primer to dry completely, usually within an hour or two of time.
  2. Apply Paint:
    • Once the primer is dry, apply your chosen paint color (see the suggestion below for my favorite white paint option)
    • Use a paintbrush or foam roller to apply the paint in thin, even coats.
    • One coat may be sufficient, but additional coats may be needed for full coverage or touch-ups.
  3. Finish with Polycrylic:
    • Once the paint is dry, apply two coats of Polycrylic in a Clear Satin finish, giving your piece a slick, smooth finish using a clean paintbrush or foam brush to apply evenly.  
    • Allow each coat of Polycrylic to dry for two hours before reapplying.
    • After applying the final coat, allow the piece to dry overnight before using or moving it.
How to Paint Laminate Furniture from MomAdvice.com
How to Paint Laminate Furniture from MomAdvice.com

How Do I Keep Laminate Furniture Clean?

While painted laminate furniture can be durable, it must be treated carefully to prevent chipping, scratching, or other damage. 

Avoid placing hot or heavy objects directly on the surface, and use coasters or protective pads as needed.

To clean painted laminate furniture, use a mild detergent, water solution, and a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, which can damage the finish of your piece. 

I can’t wait to hear how your first project goes!

Paint Laminate Furniture Without Sanding Furniture Ideas

Here are a few examples of furniture pieces you could try as a great beginner project for painting laminate furniture. 

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How to Spray Paint Furniture

Love this tutorial don’t miss these other fun painting and staining projects:

How to Paint a Kitchen Table– Revitalize your kitchen table with a coat of paint. Discover easy steps to give your dining area a new lease on life.

How to Spray Paint Furniture– Upgrade your furniture with a professional finish using spray paint. Follow simple instructions to achieve a flawless makeover for any piece.”

Stain Picnic Table Tutorial– Enhance outdoor gatherings by staining your picnic table with this tutorial. Explore the process to protect your outdoor wood furniture so you can use it year after year. 

How to Stain Wood Furniture– Bring new life to your furniture by staining it. Follow these straightforward steps to add rich color and depth to your favorite pieces.

TELL ME: Did you have success with this painting project? What has been your experience painting laminate wood?

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How to Paint Plastic Eggs for Easter

Friday, February 9th, 2024

Learn how to paint plastic eggs for a fun spin on Easter egg decorating for kids. These dyeable plastic eggs can be used year after year unlike real eggs!

The Dyeable Plastic Eggs Tutorial You Need Now

Did you know that you can paint and dye plastic eggs to look just like the real deal? Well, now you do! Today, we’re diving into the world of decorating plastic eggs and, most importantly, how to avoid colorful hands afterward.

These dyeable plastic eggs offer a delightful twist to traditional Easter egg decorating for kids. You can find them in the seasonal section of stores, offering a reusable option for Easter décor year after year. Plus, unlike real eggs, they won’t spoil or need refrigeration!

Where to Buy Dyeable Plastic Eggs

These new dyeable plastic eggs can be found over in the seasonal section of stores and are made from 100% recyclable plastic. Just remember to pick up a paint kit or acrylic paint set if your egg set does not include paint.

Why Choose Dyeable Plastic Eggs

Unlike the shiny, brightly colored eggs typically used for egg hunts, these plastic eggs have a unique brushed exterior that almost feels like wood.

Made from lightweight, 100% recyclable plastic, they’re durable and won’t crack as easily as their traditional counterparts.

The Dyeable Plastic Eggs Tutorial You Need Now

The Dyeable Plastic Eggs Tutorial You Need Now
How to Dye Plastic Eggs

What Do We Love About the Plastic Decorating Eggs?

I love decorating eggs with my kids, but when we do it, I wish that I could keep them longer without them spoiling or needing refrigeration. We also ran into instances of little hands being excited to dump their eggs in the dye, often resulting in cracked eggs.

Unlike the shiny brightly colored eggs we use for our egg hunts, these almost feel like a wooden egg with a brushed exterior, yet are lightweight since they are made from a lightweight plastic.

There is a small seam that can be seen in my close-up pictures, but it does not break open like the neon plastic eggs.

The Dyeable Plastic Eggs Tutorial You Need Now
The Dyeable Plastic Eggs Tutorial You Need Now

Experimenting with different decorating techniques is part of the fun! While dunking the eggs in dye might not work well due to their lightweight nature, painting them yields vibrantly beautiful results.

Consider using egg painting kits for a hassle-free decorating experience.

Let your creativity run wild! Whether it’s speckled eggs, sponge painting, or golden glaze, there are endless possibilities to explore.

Encourage the kids to unleash their imagination and create their own unique masterpieces.

In our house, we tried a couple of different techniques with these dyeable plastic eggs.

When attempting our Kool-Aid dying we found that the eggs did not absorb the dye well.

Painting our eggs with an egg painting kit, however, yielded vibrantly beautiful eggs. We combined the sponge technique with the golden glaze, and let the kids create their own masterpieces.

The Dyeable Plastic Eggs Tutorial You Need Now
The Dyeable Plastic Eggs Tutorial You Need Now
How to Dye Plastic Eggs
The Dyeable Plastic Eggs Tutorial You Need Now

Here are the eggs we created with our kits. Some of the most beautiful eggs actually resulted from dyed fingerprints that added color and texture to them.

My daughter loved doing the speckled eggs, while my son painted his fully with a brush.

We let them dry in the carton and they now have a spot in our front room in a bowl to be admired all season long.

I would recommend these dyeable eggs for little hands that have a hard time handling delicate eggs, children with egg allergies, and moms that might like to keep their decorated eggs from year to year.

Remove Dye From Skin

That was a messy job so I am sharing our tried-and-true recipe for removing egg dye & paint off of your hands.

We can attest to this formula as we may or may not have used everything in our house from rubbing alcohol to oil to try to figure out how to get the pesky dye of our hands.

Smarter people might wear gloves while decorating. We risk it all for our art. That’s how we roll.

How to Remove Dye From Skin

1 squirt whitening toothpaste

1 squirt face or body exfoliant

1 squirt baby oil

Scrub well. Add a little water and continue scrubbing. Rinse. Repeat as necessary.

Maybe three times if you look like a Smurf.

The Dyeable Plastic Eggs Tutorial You Need Now
How to Remove Food Coloring From Skin (or Dye)

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17 Stunning Friendship Stories to Read Now

Monday, February 5th, 2024
13 Stunning Friendship Stories to Read Now

Celebrate Galentine’s Day with these friendship stories for adults! These books about friendship include fiction and nonfiction- perfect for any book club!

Looking for a friendship story for your next book club selection?

What could be a more perfect excuse than a fictional Galentine’s Day holiday that will give you an excuse to brunch AND discuss a great book about friendship.

Galentine's Day Books to Read

What is Galentine’s Day?

I think of Galentine’s Day as an official holiday, but its origin story might surprise you. This catchy holiday wasn’t created by Hallmark.

Instead, Galentine’s Day was created by the fictional Leslie Knope in an episode of Parks and Recreation.

Aptly titled the same name as the holiday (Season 2, Episode 16), Leslie gathers a group of her closest gal pals for brunch full of waffles and love. 

In this memorable scene, Amy Poehler delivers these lines, “Every February 13th, my lady friends and I leave our husbands and our boyfriends at home, and we just come and kick it, breakfast style,” she explains in the episode. “Ladies celebrating ladies.”

When is Galentine’s Day?

On February 13th, the day before Valentine’s Day, you can devote a day to celebrating your friendship with your best gal pals.

We encourage our readers to embrace a book club selection together and have gathered 9 friendship stories you’ll love to celebrate. 

That’s not all though, if you are looking for great movie or tv recommendations, we have you covered with today’s podcast with Mary Carver.

Mary  is a regular contributor on MomAdvice and the host of The Couch With Mary Carver. Her podcast celebrates TV, movies, music, and books all year-long.

Head here to read these show notes and get a list of fun ideas to celebrate this holiday with your favorite gal pals.

Listen to this episode in the embedded player or subscribe to the Book Gang wherever you get your podcasts.

Let’s celebrate this fictional holiday with the best books about friendship in fiction and nonfiction!

17 Stunning Friendship Stories to Read Now

These seventeen books celebrate female friendship stories are PERFECT for your next book club gathering.

HISTORICAL FICTION FRIENDSHIP STORIES

These friendship stories are the perfect book club books for historical fiction readers.

NONFICTION FRIENDSHIP STORIES

These nonfiction books about friendship are wonderful options for readers who want to dive deep into culivating friendships in their life.

BACKLIST FRIENDSHIP BOOKS

If you have been with your gal pals as long as I have, I wanted to offer some great backlist friendship stories that you might want to host a “reunion” book club.

These are four modern-day classics you might have read in your earlier years of friendship that could be revived for your next gathering.

What friendship stories would you add to this list?

Stunning Friendship Stories to Read Now

25 Funny Valentine’s Cards That Made Us LOL

Thursday, January 11th, 2024
25 Funny Valentines Cards That Made Us LOL

These funny Valentine’s Day cards offer 25 Etsy designs that are perfect to celebrate. These 2024 pop culture moments and memes include easy captions for gifts.

Although it may seem a little early to start talking about Valentine’s Day, we have learned the hard way that sometimes shipping cards takes a bit of time. 

Every card we have ever ordered from an Etsy shop owner has been worth the wait, though! These custom cards are laugh-out-loud funny and often refer to memes and pop culture moments worth their weight in gold. 

Today we wanted to show off 25 Valentine’s Day cards that are the perfect way to say I love you to all the important people in your life.

Can I also say how important it is to support Etsy makers? I hope you’ll feel inspired to order a card or two and support a small business.

Funny Valentine's Cards

Are you looking for a funny card for Valentine’s Day? Check out this gathering of 25 Etsy cards, perfect for this year's festivities. I have even supplied card captions for this year to make it easier!

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The Best Tools for Cozy Reading With Chronic Pain

Thursday, November 9th, 2023
The Best Tools for Cozy Reading With Chronic Pain

This cozy reading guide offers surprising tips for the best reading chair, book light, and pillows for reading in bed. Get ready for the winter reading season!

In this week’s Book Gang podcast, Osteopath Alexandra Orfanides shared surprising tips for creating a cozy winter reading space despite chronic pain challenges. She does this as a practice, runs the Hypermobility HQ on the TikTok account, and hosts the Help! I’m Hypermobile Podcast.  

We encourage you to listen to hear more details on what we are getting wrong about reading posture, her towel hack for full-body support, and other tips for chronic pain management.

Listen to the full episode (the show notes are located here) below and subscribe to the Book Gang podcast for more episodes like this one.

Get ready for a bonus treat! I’ve made a Cozy Reading Guide with the best tips and essential items from today’s talk with Alex.

If you love this guide, you can support my work through a one-time donation on Buy Me a Coffee or join our Patreon community for book fun all year long. The financial support helps us keep the lights on in our online space.

More than anything, we hope this improves your reading life this year!

The Best Tools for Cozy Reading With Chronic Pain

The Best Tools for Cozy Reading With Chronic Pain

Discover helpful tips to make your reading experience enjoyable, even on challenging days with chronic pain.

Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

COMFORTABLE READING CHAIR

Sink into the most comfortable reading chair with these unique ideas and ways to build the best cozy reading experience at home.

TOOLS FOR READING

From book lights to ADHD timers, these reading tools can ensure your body is always cozy when reading.

BOOK HOLDERS FOR READING

Find the ideal book holder for reading. Discover a range of ergonomic and adjustable options for a comfortable reading experience.

READING IN BED

Discover tips for cozy essentials for reading in bed. From the soft glow of reading lights to the comfiest pillows- this list has you covered.

JOINT SUPPORT

Explore tips and products designed to alleviate strain, making your reading experience more comfortable with hand pain.

What’s your go-to gadget for reading with chronic pain? Share your favorite tools and devices that make your reading experience more comfortable.

100 Unique Stocking Stuffers for Everyone On Your List

Tuesday, November 7th, 2023

This INCREDIBLE list of 100 stocking stuffers offer the perfect gift ideas for everyone on your list. We have included men, women, teens, tweens, and toddlers!

100 Unique Stuffing Stuffers for Everyone on Your List

Are you looking for the perfect small gift to tuck in your family member’s stocking? Today I’m sharing my Christmas stocking stuffers that everyone will love.

My family never did stockings, when I was growing up, and I was always so enchanted by the tradition at my boyfriend’s (now husband) house.

Each stocking was uniquely made and cut from felt with adorable details on each one. I loved watching them open their stocking and the fun things that their parents came up with to give to them.

In their house, they had scratch-off lottery tickets, car wash gift certificates, toll road gift cards, and their favorite candy.

As with ALL my holiday gift guides I want to give you a list of useful gifts to share with a loved one on Christmas morning.

100 Unique Stocking Stuffers For Everyone On Your List

We want to acknowledge that 2023 is expensive, and we have done our best to include families in ALL budgets for this year’s list.

If you are on a budget, I recommend that you sign up with Rakuten to do your shopping. We’re sharing some instructions below for ways to apply this to bigger ticket items in our list. This app gives you cash back on all your qualifying purchases.

If you want to read more about this shopping app, head here for an in-depth review of what Rakuten offers.

If you just want $40 and plan to get shopping, this should automatically deposit $40 in your account for your purchases (sorry- new customers only!).

And while the new stuff is fun, remember that experiences can also be an excellent stocking surprise that will only take up a little room in your home.

We have ideas for saving on theatre tickets and a fun Choose Your Own Adventure travel experience you can gift for the holidays.

However you shop, sharing this resource is a big help to our family!

You are supporting a woman-owned small business, and I’m SO GRATEFUL. Thank you for trusting me with this process for TWENTY YEARS.

100 Unique Stocking Stuffers for Everyone On Your List

The Best Stocking Stuffers

We have 100 ideas for the best stocking stuffers for men, women, kids, teens, and toddlers in this 2023 gift guide!

This year's list is divided into categories for easy shopping.

THE BEST STOCKING STUFFERS FOR MEN

Looking for the best stocking stuffers for the guy in your life? This list has you covered with lots of incredible budget-friendly options.

THE BEST STOCKING STUFFERS FOR WOMEN

The best stocking stuffers I recommend for the women in your life. These are some of my tried-and-true favorites that have been a hit with readers, too.

THE BEST STOCKING STUFFERS FOR TEEN GIRLS

You don't need to be a teen girl to love these stocking stuffer options, but Google likes us to have gender specific category titles for our gift guides. Why? We don't know!

THE BEST STOCKING STUFFERS FOR TEEN BOYS

You don't need to be a teen boy to love these stocking stuffer ideas, but Google likes us to have gender specific category titles for our gift guides. Why? We don't know!

BEST STOCKING STUFFERS FOR KIDS

The best stocking stuffer ideas for kids can be found in this fun gift list for the holidays.

THE BEST STOCKING STUFFERS FOR TODDLERS

Looking for the best stocking stuffer ideas for your favorite toddler? We have you covered in this fun list with age recommendations on these gift ideas.

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This post contains affiliate links from RewardStyle. Thank you for supporting our website through your purchases.
100 Unique Stocking Stuffers for Everyone On Your List

Advent Calendar for Teens That They Will Love

Monday, November 6th, 2023

An advent calendar for teens and tweens can make the holidays special. Shop this curated guide for fun ways to countdown to Christmas this year.

Advent Calendar for Teens They Will Love

One of my favorite gifts to give my teen is their advent calendar as a Christmas gift each year. This year, we wanted to offer this year’s best calendar ideas for your kiddos in this age category, as well as those college-age kiddos that deserve a fun way to celebrate the season.

We have you covered with a few of our favorite ways to countdown Christmas in 2023. 

To keep it economical, be sure to read our suggestions for ways to reuse keepsake boxes or diy advent calendars for the season with our smart ideas for saving.

DON’T FORGET TO ACTIVATE YOUR RAKUTEN WHEN SHOPPING. HERE IS $40 back on your first purchase.

If you aren’t familiar with the program, this is my beginner’s tutorial on how to use Rakuten (and some sneaky ways I get cashback on stuff we buy all the time).

Let’s celebrate the 12 days of Christmas with these fun ideas for the season.

Advent Calendar for Teens

Discover the perfect teen advent calendar for a memorable holiday countdown with these fun suggestions curated by the MomAdvice team.

As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.

HOLIDAY ADVENT CALENDAR GAMES AND BUILDS

These advent calendar games and puzzles can be done independently or as a family experience.

ART ADVENT CALENDARS

These arts and crafts advent calendars are perfect for the budding artist in your life.

ADVENT CALENDARS FOR TEEN BOYS

You don't need to be a teen boy to love these ideas, but Google likes us to have gender specific category titles for our gift guides. Why? We don't know!

FOOD ADVENT CALENDARS

Unwrap a tasty surprise every day with this list of food advent calendars. From chocolates to gourmet treats, find the perfect December bite for the season.

ADVENT CALENDARS FOR TEEN GIRLS

You don't need to be a teen girl to love these ideas, but Google likes us to have gender specific category titles for our gift guides. Why? We don't know!

POCKET ADVENT CALENDAR & OTHER DIY ADVENT CALENDAR EXPERIENCES

These personalized calendars allow you to personalize it to your teen's interests.

Fill the pocket calendar with handwritten notes, a crafty calendar with homemade treats. These DIY advent calendars offer a unique way to make the holiday season more meaningful.

PET ADVENT CALENDAR

Have a teen that's crazy about their furry friends? A pet advent experience can be a lot of fun for teens to open!

Love this guide? Don’t miss these other holiday gift guides:

Best Gifts for Minimalists

The Best Gifts for Kids Who Have Everything

Retirement Gifts for Men They Will Love and Use

Unique Gifts for the Man Who Has Everything

Advent Calendars for Teens They Will Love