Prempanel acoustic slat wall - is it the veneer stainable?

[fluxtheory]

Hello, I'm in the process of planning a feature wall for my home office. I have noticed Bunnings sells these acoustic slat wall panels however the reviews aren't particularly good and even under favorable lighting, the material looks very flat and lifeless. I can understand, given this is a $99 dollar offering while places charge over double for what is effectively the same product. I refuse to pay $240 dollars for MDF veneer however so I'm willing to get my hands dirty and make some modifications myself. 

I have looked at material specification document and the veneer material appears to be some sort of melamine. I dont have any experience with priming or staining, but does anyone know if this product is stainable? I'm getting conflicting answers on the internet.

[Nailbag]

Hi @fluxtheory 

I have used this product in several applications now as both the intended wall mounted acoustics, feature panel and even as a feature ceiling. I have been impressed with the quality of the product and finish across the various colours and value for money. My only issues have been applying the product and modifying it to an application it's not designed for. And that been my doing. I would recommend going ahead using it.

Regards Nailbag

[fluxtheory]

Thanks Nailbag, that does look pretty good however I think much of that has to do with the natural outdoor lighting. My use-case will be primarily in-door and I am aiming for that rich burgundy-brown you get from well finished walnut. I have seen the pictures taken from other customers and most of the time the product seems to default to an unattractive olive-brown, especially under white light. I'll pick up a panel later this week and see how it reacts to my room.

[EricL]

Hello @fluxtheory 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your Prempanel panels.  

The front of the panels are made of wood veneer. However, due to its thin profile odds are that it can't be sanded as it might get damaged. It might be possible to paint its surface, but you won't be able to get that burgundy-brown stain you are after. My advice is to see which colour is closest to the one that you prefer. I also suggest looking at the finish of the panel under your house lights and in the morning sun so that you can see what colour tone it reflects back to you. 

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

Eric