Need Help After a Polycrylic Disaster on My IKEA Karlby—What’s Next?

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Asked By Xy9z$HjW On

Hey folks! I really need your help here. I'm new to DIY projects, and I'm feeling pretty heartbroken. I have an IKEA Karlby countertop that I use for my desk, and I wanted to seal it to protect it from moisture and wear. I went with Minwax Polycrylic, following the instructions for multiple thin coats and sanding in between. However, after the third coat, it all went wrong. The surface started to pill while I sanded, and I ended up with uneven gloss and some areas that felt soft or rubbery. When I tried to fix it, large sections peeled off, leaving it looking cloudy and a total mess. I've spent $150 in supplies and hours on this, and now I'm wondering if I need to strip the finish completely and start over. Can I use Citristrip on the veneer? What's the best way to strip and refinish it? How many coats should I ideally apply? Any advice on application methods to avoid this failure again would mean a lot to me!

3 Answers

Answered By T1mB3r_W0lf On

It sounds like you might have recoated too soon and the environment could have affected the process. Can you share more about where you were working? Temperature and humidity can really make a difference. And with previous coats, I've found that as long as you don't sand the final coat, it generally covers any mistakes from earlier. Just keep that in mind!

Xy9z$HjW -

I worked inside a closed bathroom so my cat wouldn't jump on it, and I kept a window open in the bedroom for air. Temp was around 68-70°F, but I didn’t track humidity. I waited 6 hours mostly between coats, but I did some touch-ups sooner. I realize now that my thick application might have been a big mistake.

Answered By C4s1noR0y On

Oh man, if it's a veneer, that could be the issue! Polycrylic doesn't adhere well to surfaces that are already treated. You might need a primer suitable for smooth surfaces if you plan on painting over it. You could consider stripping it completely and starting fresh.

Xy9z$HjW -

Yeah, I found out it’s a veneer with hard wax oil treatment pre-applied. Do you think that’s why the poly didn't work out?

Answered By A1carD_B3at On

The IKEA Karlby is indeed pre-treated with hard wax oil for maintenance. That’s likely why things went south for you. I’ve used Polycrylic successfully on other IKEA items, but you probably needed to sand the surface more before applying. Just make sure it’s a light sanding next time, and don’t rush into recoating!

Xy9z$HjW -

I did do some sanding with 220 grit, but it seems like I should have done more prep. I really appreciate your input!

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