Kitchen Cabinets

How to Paint Kitchen Cabinets & More

Introduction

Painting kitchen cabinets can completely transform the look of your kitchen. With a fresh coat of paint, you can update dated cabinets or give brand new cabinets a custom look. Painting cabinets is a budget-friendly renovation project that can be done in a weekend. Learn how to prepare your cabinets, choose the right paint, and get a smooth, durable finish. This comprehensive guide covers all the steps for painting cabinets and includes tips for picking colors, prepping surfaces, applying paint like a pro, and protecting your finished product. With the right prep work and technique, you can achieve flawless results and a kitchen you’ll love showing off.

Assess Your Cabinets

Before painting, it’s important to assess the current condition and construction of your cabinets.

Types of Cabinets

There are three main types of cabinet constructions:

  • Wood: Natural wood cabinets provide a beautiful finish but require more prep work prior to painting. The wood grain will still be visible after painting.
  • Veneered plywood: These cabinets have a thin layer of wood veneer over plywood. The veneer must be sanded through completely prior to painting to allow for proper adhesion.
  • Laminate: Laminate cabinets have a plastic laminate coating over particleboard or MDF. This laminate needs to be thoroughly sanded off before painting.

Condition

Inspect cabinets for any existing damage:

  • Peeling paint
  • Broken joints/doors
  • Loose hinges
  • Missing hardware

Any repairs should be made prior to painting to ensure the new paint job lasts.

Cleanliness

Cabinets should be cleaned thoroughly before painting:

  • Remove all cabinet contents
  • Wipe down with degreaser and rinse with clean water
  • Remove grease and dirt buildup

A clean surface allows paint to properly adhere.

Choose Paint and Supplies

Choosing the right paint and prep supplies makes all the difference in getting a smooth, durable finish.

Paint Options

Enamel paint provides a hard, glossy finish that stands up well to moisture and frequent use. Enamel paint comes in oil-based and water-based options:

  • Oil-based enamel provides a durable, glossy finish but requires mineral spirits for cleanup and has strong odors.
  • Water-based acrylic enamel is low-odor and cleans up with soap and water but may require more coats for an evenly glossy finish.

Latex paint is a water-based option well-suited for cabinets:

  • More affordable than enamel
  • Low-odor
  • Easy water cleanup
  • Provides a smooth, rich finish
  • More resistant to chips and scratches than enamel

For the best durability, look for interior latex paints specifically formulated for kitchen cabinets and trim.

Paint sheen impacts durability and appearance:

  • High-gloss provides a shiny, polished look but shows imperfections.
  • Semi-gloss is very durable, resists moisture, and is easy to clean.
  • Satin is smooth with a low sheen. It hides imperfections well.
  • Matte has no sheen and a velvety finish but is harder to clean.

Typically, satin or semi-gloss sheens work best for cabinets.

Supplies

Gather all the necessary supplies before starting:

  • Drop cloths
  • Painters tape
  • Sandpaper (150 and 220 grit)
  • Tack cloth
  • Paint brush and mini roller
  • Primer (oil-based or latex)
  • Paint trays and liners
  • Rags
  • Paint bucket (for pouring paint into tray)

Using quality brushes and rollers leads to a smoother finish. Disposable supplies save cleanup time.

Prep Cabinets for Painting

Proper prep work leads to better paint adhesion and a smooth finish.

Clean Cabinets

Give cabinets a thorough cleaning before sanding or priming:

  • Remove doors, shelves, and hardware (label items)
  • Wipe down all surfaces with a degreaser or TSP substitute
  • Allow to dry completely

Remove existing paint that is cracked or peeling:

  • Use a paint scraper to remove loose paint
  • Sand edges smooth

Clean surfaces allow paint to properly adhere.

Sand Cabinets

Sanding smoothes surfaces, removes contaminants, and helps paint adhere:

  • Lightly sand all cabinet surfaces and edges with 150 grit sandpaper
  • Vacuum up all dust after sanding
  • Further sand with 220 grit sandpaper
  • Be sure to sand until the laminate coating is completely removed on laminate cabinets
  • Use a sanding block for flat surfaces and hand sand tight areas
  • Always sand in the direction of the wood grain on wood cabinets

Prime Cabinets

Priming ensures better paint coverage and allows for a smooth topcoat:

  • Use a high bond primer made for laminate or cabinets
  • For wood cabinets, use an oil-based primer
  • Apply primer evenly following can directions
  • Let primer fully dry before painting

Priming prevents unfinished spots and bleed-through.

Repair Damage

Inspect cabinets and repair any gouges, holes, or cracks prior to painting:

  • Use wood filler or spackle for minor repairs
  • Sand smooth after drying
  • Spot prime repaired areas

Proper repairs prevent imperfections in the new paint job.

Paint Cabinets Like a Pro

Use these professional techniques for a flawless painted finish:

Protect Surfaces

Cover all surrounding surfaces with drop cloths, plastic sheets, or painters tape:

  • Tape off countertops, backsplashes, and flooring
  • Drape drop cloths over appliances and fixtures
  • Use smaller plastic sheets to cover cabinet interiors

Masking prevents paint splatter and drips on surfaces not being painted.

Apply First Coat

When primed surfaces are fully dry, apply the first coat using a high-quality nylon/polyester brush:

  • Pour paint into trays and line with plastic to ease cleanup
  • Work in sections starting with the cabinet frame then doors
  • Use a brush to cut-in corners and edges
  • Apply paint in long, even strokes following the wood grain
  • Get coverage on all edges and interior frames
  • Allow paint to fully dry before adding second coat

Cutting in edges first prevents drips and ensures sharp paint lines.

Second Coat

The second coat provides complete coverage and a smooth finish:

  • Lightly sand the first coat to remove any drips or debris
  • Clean cabinet surfaces with a tack cloth
  • Apply the second coat using a roller and angled brush
  • Work top to bottom to avoid drips
  • Apply paint in a “W” or criss-cross motion for even coverage
  • End with a final brushed finish to smooth out roller marks
  • Allow paint to fully cure for at least 24 hours before reinstalling doors and drawers

Two thin coats create a more durable finish than one thick coat.

Finish Coats on Doors

Paint cabinet doors separately from frame and sides:

  • Remove all doors and lay flat for painting
  • Seal edges with primer then sand smooth
  • Apply two finish coats with light sanding between
  • Alternatively, use spray paint formulated for cabinets

Painting doors separately results in a smooth, professional finish.

Check for Full Coverage

Inspect cabinets for any missed spots and touch up if needed:

  • Touch-ups blend better when paint is still fresh
  • Use a small paintbrush to touch up corners or edges
  • For any runs or drips, lightly sand then apply paint
  • Wipe away any dust with a tack cloth before applying touch-ups

Addressing flaws immediately leaves a flawless finish.

Pick the Perfect Cabinet Color

Choosing the right cabinet color transforms the entire kitchen. Consider the following tips when selecting a color:

Neutral Colors

For a classic, timeless look, stick with a neutral palette:

  • White or antique white
  • Soft gray
  • Warm ivory or tan
  • Beachy wood tones

Neutrals lend a clean, bright look and are easy to match with any decor.

Bright White

Opt for a bright white for a fresh, contemporary style:

  • Use white paint with a blue undertone to get a crisp, clean finish
  • White paint makes small spaces appear larger
  • Adds contrast against dark floors or countertops

Keep soft white paint looking fresh by pairing with easy-to-clean surfaces.

Dark Colors

Bold dark hues instantly create drama and elegance:

  • Charcoal gray
  • Black
  • Deep blue
  • Forest green

Dark colors work well against light countertops or backsplashes.

Complementary Tones

Match existing elements for a harmonious look:

  • Pick out a shade from floor tile or textiles
  • Coordinate with countertop colors
  • Repeat the tone of existing paint trims

Tying cabinet color to existing features creates a polished, designer look.

Contrasting Colors

Make cabinets a focal point with an opposite shade from other features:

  • Bright white against dark countertops
  • Soft blue on warm wood floors
  • Vibrant red against neutral tiles

The contrast makes the cabinets stand out.

Personal Preference

Choose a color you’ll love looking at daily:

  • Opt for your favorite bold shade
  • Never underestimate the power of your favorite neutral
  • Mix and match colors on base and upper cabinets

Picking a color you adore will make you smile each time you enter the kitchen!

Protect and Maintain Painted Cabinets

Use these tips to keep painted cabinets looking fresh:

Allow Proper Cure Time

Fresh paint needs adequate time to fully set up and cure:

  • Allow a minimum of 24 hours dry time before replacing doors
  • Wait several days before putting any items back into cabinets
  • Give the paint two weeks to fully harden before intensive cleaning

Rushing the curing process can damage the paint job.

Install Knobs and Pulls

Updating hardware creates a finished, custom look:

  • Opt for knobs or pulls that contrast against cabinet color
  • Install hardware only after paint has cured
  • Fill any existing hardware holes with wood filler before painting
  • Reinforce joints with wood glue when reattaching doors

Fresh hardware paired with painted cabinets transforms the entire space.

Clean Regularly

Use a soft sponge or cloth with mild soap and water for regular cabinet cleaning:

  • Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrub pads which can wear down paint
  • Immediately wipe up any spills or splatters
  • Reseal counters after cleaning to avoid moisture damage at joints

Frequent cleaning keeps painted finishes looking like new.

Use Cutting Boards

Protect cabinet surfaces from knives, pots, and pans:

  • Always use a cutting board on countertops
  • Install pan and pot holders inside cabinet fronts
  • Take care not to bump cabinet corners with heavy cookware

Preventing nicks and dings maintains the paint finish.

Touch Up Flaws

Spot paint any nicks or flaws as soon as they appear:

  • Lightly sand any damaged areas to smooth
  • Wipe clean with a tack cloth
  • Dab touch-up paint to flaw and feather edges
  • Match touch-up color to the original paint whenever possible

Addressing paint flaws quickly prevents further damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of paint is best for kitchen cabinets?

A high-quality latex paint specifically formulated for cabinets and trim provides the most durable, long-lasting finish. Look for an interior satin or semi-gloss paint.

What sheen should I use to paint cabinets?

A satin or semi-gloss sheen provides the right balance of shine and stain resistance. Semi-gloss offers maximum durability while satin provides a smooth, velvety look.

Do cabinets need to be primed before painting?

Priming ensures paint adheres properly. For laminate cabinets, priming creates a uniform surface for paint. For wood cabinets, priming prevents bleed-through and uneven staining. Make sure to use primer compatible with your topcoat paint.

How long does it take for painted cabinets to cure?

Most cabinet paints fully cure in 2-3 weeks. Allow paint to dry 24-48 hours before replacing doors and drawers. Wait several days before putting any heavy items back in cabinets. Avoid intensive cleaning for 2 weeks to prevent damage.

Can you spray paint kitchen cabinets?

Spray painting is an efficient alternative for applying color evenly on cabinet doors and frames. Opt for spray paint compatible with the surface material that offers protection against chips, scratches, and fading.

Should I remove cabinet doors before painting?

It’s generally best to remove doors, drawers, and hardware prior to painting cabinets. This allows for easier access to cabinet frames and sidewalls. Removing doors also makes it easier to apply paint evenly across the entire surface.

Conclusion

Updated kitchen cabinets can revive the look of your entire kitchen. By properly prepping surfaces, applying paint with care, and maintaining the finish, you can achieve stunning results painting cabinets and save thousands over the cost of new cabinetry. Use these tips to successfully tackle a DIY kitchen cabinet paint job. With some patience and effort, you can gain beautiful “new” cabinets to enjoy for years to come.

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