Furniture, Wood and Cabinetry Finishing - refinishing laminate bookshelf

I have what I think is a laminated particle board bookshelf (the kind you can find in any office supply store), that is a boring shade of grey. I would like to refinish it in a more interesting fashion, but the surface does not look like it would accept paint or any other finish very well. I think a crackle type finish would look neat. Any advice on how I might refinish it?

The shelf can be refinished. You need to sand it thoroughly, enough to develop a 'tack' for the new finish to adhere to. Prime with a good adhesive primer, such as BIN (2 coats) sanding after each to remove mistakes, brush marks, etc.

Your local hardware, paint store, or home center may have crackle paint. Crackle paint and lacquer are both available at the two sites listed below.

http://www.vandykes.com

http://www.constantines.com