How to upcycle MDF cabinet?

MaddiC

 Hi ! I’m hoping someone can help me understand what to do with this cabinet. It says it’s a combination of MDF,Particleboard,Plywood. I’m thinking the white drawers and doors are different to the body of the unit. 
should I sand it before painting? And any suggestions for how to go about removing/paining the white parts too. Originally I wanted to put a stain over it but I’m thinking that’s not really an option for this type of material. 

thank you in advance!!!! 

EricL

Hello @MaddiC 

I propose taking a step back and having a think about the colour combination you would want on this cabinet. The different materials applied to this cabinet prevents you from doing a single paint stain or coating as some materials will react differently to the stain. The plywood might be just veneer and not actual plywood through and through. The particle board could be the body underneath and MDF serves as the door and drawer fronts of the cabinet. 

It's not that you can't paint it, but you would need to be very careful with what you paint it with. The plywood veneer can be sanded but only to a point. If sanded too much you will go right through the veneer. The veneer can be painted or stained but just keep in mind that all the former sealer must be removes. Please note that because there is a possibility that it is just a veneer, staining it means thar it will be its final colour as sanding the surface will remove the veneer.

In regards to the MDF, it's important that the surface be primed properly to seal its surface before painting it. 

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric