Reassemble the cabinets and hardware. If your hardware simply needs cleaning, see Refinishing and Cleaning Kitchen Cabinets for instructions. Give them a wash with soapy water. Start with the backside and apply a smooth even coat. Primer will help protect your cabinets, and it will also create a smooth base to help you get better adhesion and truer color from your paint. Also, while assessing the condition of your cabinet doors, you may determine that one or more of them needs to be replaced. 3. Painting cabinets will take several days to complete, so plan accordingly. The steps for painting the cabinets are similar in both the spray and brush method. And proof that I don't DIY in much more than PJs and flip flops. The following instructions are for painting wood or laminate cabinets. On the cabinet doors and drawer fronts pieces, paint the backs, let them dry, then paint the fronts. How to Paint Kitchen Cabinets STEP 1: Time it right. Choose a week when temperatures are moderate. After cleaning, it’s time to roughen things up! Prep the room. A second coat of ADVANCE gives you complete coverage and allows the finish to cure evenly. Vinyl wrapped cabinets, with their sleek surface, are more challenging to paint than wood. Use a brush to get into corners and detailed areas. Looking to update your old kitchen cabinets? Be careful not to sand too deep and damage the laminate. Here are benefits of gloss: The glossy finish will make a room appear larger. Don’t fill the hardware holes if you’re planning on using the same hardware. Special cabinet paints are available that provide a smooth finish, but any high-quality paint should work. Mix according to the instructions and scrub the cabinets. Make sure the surface is as even as possible—this ensures your paint will go on smoothly. Wood, wood-laminate, and metal cabinets usually can be repainted without difficulty. Placing painter’s tape on the wall along the cabinet edges is helpful. Painting kitchen cabinets can save you the headache (and expense) of a big remodeling project. To paint a whole kitchen's worth of cabinets, it would be best to buy, rent, or borrow a paint sprayer. Steps for Painting Cabinets 1. Explore how to get your next DIY project done–and done right. Unsubscribe Anytime. Some flat finish paints can be difficult to clean. When you’ve covered the surface, take your dry roller or brush (don’t reload it) and lightly go over the surface once again to remove any buildup. Use a putty knife to press it in and smooth it out. Painting the Cabinets Step 1: Prime the cabinets – Apply a coat of high quality primer to all surfaces of the cabinets. Allow the paint to dry. Whether you use the less expensive "cup style" paint sprayer , which holds 1.5 quarts, or the more expensive type that draws directly from the paint can, either will … Replacing your kitchen cabinets might cost more than the cost to paint kitchen cabinets initially, but it provides more long-lasting results and is often backed by a warranty. Step 3. Like I mentioned above, a lot of research and testing went into that decision. If you run into difficulties while removing your cabinet hardware, see How Do I Remove A Stripped Screw? Yes, it is possible to paint cabinets without sanding. If you’re replacing your hardware, you might have to use wood filler for holes that don’t line up with the new hardware. How to Paint Kitchen Cabinets Step 1. Pictured here is a quick discussion about the game plan. Also, for best results you should remove the doors and drawers and work on them in an area that’s out of the way, like a garage or basement. Step by step guide to painting kitchen cupboards with Chalk Paint® First, remove the doors and any hardware from your cabinets. A full kitchen remodel is an expensive and disruptive project that usually requires the participation of costly professionals. Attach the handles or knobs to a piece of cardboard so they’re upright and easier to work on. When it comes to the best paint for kitchen cabinets, the harder the finish, the better the paint. You might be thinking that repainting kitchen cabinets is not as easy as it looks, and you’re right. Like I mentioned above, a lot of research and testing went into that decision. Most cabinet finishes are too smooth or glossy to reprime and repaint, so using a medium sandpaper (we like 100- to 150-grit), sand down your surfaces a little—not enough to sand away the current finish entirely, but enough to give the primer a little more grit to stick to. Follow up with a coat of paint. The Spruce / David Schiff When the … Watch our how-to video for a look at our recommended process for repainting kitchen cabinets, or keep reading for our helpful step-by-step guide! A successful paint job lies in diligent prep work, and the first few steps are focused on prepping the... 2. Place the hardware in a plastic bag or cup and label where it goes. Remove Doors and Hardware. Do not rush, let the paint completely cure. Once the cabinets are prepared you’re ready to prime and paint. Fold the sandpaper to get into the detailed areas on doors and drawers, and in the corners on the frames. The key is to apply light coats to prevent buildup. A gloss finish will make your cabinets sheen, but it may show a lot of dings or mistakes. Time-saving tip: Painting cabinet doors (and similar large areas) may go faster if you use a foam or microfiber paint roller instead of a brush. Laminate cabinets require a special bonding primer. Use the same method as priming, brush to cut in and roll out the rest. Start with the cabinet frames, using a high-quality brush for smaller areas and a foam roller for larger surfaces. Prep the room. Hilary of Embellishments, took on this project in her bathroom and the results are impressive. Amy uses a spray bottle of cleaner to wipe off the tiled and cabinets before doing the cabinet upgrade. This allows you to work quickly in the less critical areas, and enables you to see and correct any drips or smudges on the most visible areas. Dishwashing liquid will work, but a dedicated grease remover like TSP substitute is even better. Others say it isn’t necessary. Prices, Promotions, styles, and availability may vary. She'll walk you through her real-life process of painting cabinets.See how she did it. The technique is the same as for the primer — use even strokes with the brush and finish the stroke back into the wet paint and feather out the edges. This should be your finish coat. Clean all surfaces with TSP cleaner to remove any grease and dirt. Just a light once-over will do. Some liners are decorative and stick to the surface. How Do I Use Sandpaper? The best paint for oak cabinets I found is Insl-X Cabinet Coat Enamel in satin diluted and applied with a paint sprayer. 5. How Do I Load a Paint Roller? Primer doesn’t have to look perfect. Check the instructions for details. Start by painting the inside edges and openings of the face frames, then the outer cabinet sides, and finally the face frame fronts. Stripping products are available that make this process easy. When you're ready to get started, clear off your kitchen counters, empty your … Determine the condition of your cabinets. Apply Semi-Gloss Latex Paint. New hardware, such as Gem’s DIY leather pulls, also go a long way to refreshing a kitchen. Once dry, remove the last of the paint with sandpaper. Painting kitchen cabinets is often all it takes to transform your cooking space into a place worthy of those feasts you love to whip up. We love the look of. With over 15 years of experience in residential construction, Patrick specializes in painting, wallpaper removal/installation, drywall, staining decks and fences, and kitchen cabinetry painting. Avoid getting brush marks on the flatter and smoother areas. Works well in modern kitchens and baths and complements both light and dark cabinet colors. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions on all paint-stripping products. This article was co-authored by Patrick Coye.Patrick Coye is the owner and operator of Patrick’s Painting & Home Improvement in Alexandria, Virginia. Start by emptying the cabinets, clearing off the counters, and removing any freestanding appliances. For instructions, see How to Make Replacement Cabinet Doors. Dents and holes can be filled with a wood filler. Choosing the right color for your kitchen cabinets can be an overwhelming process. Some painters like to follow up with a coat of polyurethane for added protection. It usually takes a few hours. If you’re painting the inside of the cabinets, start at the back and work toward the front. Avoid hot weather because it will cause the paint to … If you prep with the right products, you can save yourself the hassle with these tips! Remove all draws and doors, and don’t forget to remove any hardware. On-screen and printer color representations may vary from actual paint colors. And gloss is extremely durable. At minimum, let the cabinets dry in a well-ventilated area for at least 24 hours—however, two or three days is even better. Even if your cabinets are in near-perfect condition, you still have to sand them so the paint will stick. The first rule of cabinet repainting: Make sure the cabinets and doors are clean and dry. Best Way to Paint Kitchen Cabinets Size Up the Job. Work on the hardware in between coats of paint to save time. Scrub the hardware in warm water with dish soap. Wipe away any dust with a slightly damp cloth, then let dry. They usually include paint, brushes, sponges, and instructions. Work on one area at a time. Paint can be applied with a brush and roller (DIY-friendly) or a sprayer (advanced). Repair damaged areas. Use a mini roller on large, flat areas. Painting your kitchen cabinets is an amazing alternative to investing in new ones. Choose a high-quality paint. It’s important to use even strokes and finish back into the wet primer. Pro tip: Use a gloss or semigloss latex enamel paint for your paint cabinets. Rather than replacing them, an easier and more budget-friendly solution is to paint them. The laminate must be in good condition for best results. : inside corners and anywhere two flat areas meet). Sand everything with a medium grit sandpaper to help the paint stick to the surface. Primer provides a suitable surface for the paint to stick to and it covers imperfections. So the first critical step in preparing how to paint kitchen cabinets is to clean them with a grease-cutting solution. Using a fine, 220-grit paper or sanding block, sand all surfaces lightly, focusing especially on areas that may have drips or pools (i.e. Our local stores do not honor online pricing. Use the labels to make sure the doors and drawers go back in the right spots. Start with the detailed areas, making sure the primer doesn’t pool in the corners, and feather out the edges. Relocate tables and other furniture to another room. Paint Kitchen Cabinets – How To. Cover your countertops, appliances and other areas you want to protect. Semi-gloss or satin finishes are typically used for kitchens. © 2021 Benjamin Moore & Co. 101 Paragon Drive, Montvale, NJ 07645. Then find an area that gives you enough room to work—and enough space to let everything dry for extended periods of time. Watch video of this step. Pat dry. With its durable, furniture-like finish for cabinets and trim, it's the finish professionals prefer. Painting kitchen cabinets can be a long, tedious job, but if you're willing to put in a few days' worth of work, you'll significantly improve the look of your kitchen. Prepare to Paint Kitchen Cabinets. No harsh chemicals needed. Simply apply with a brush, wait for the stripper to react with the old paint, then use a plastic scraper to peel it away. To paint cabinets without sanding, you’ll need to use a deglosser to remove any varnish from the cabinets, and prime them to make sure the paint sticks. Using a 1" or a 1½" angled brush, first apply paint to the recessed or detailed areas of the cabinet door. Link to Lowe's Home Improvement Home Page, How to Clean and Refinish Kitchen Cabinets, Paint - Main Cabinets: Valspar 7005-15 Blanched Pine, Paint - Peninsula/Island: Valspar CI 57 Cracked Pepper, Refinishing and Cleaning Kitchen Cabinets, jig designed for cabinet or drawer hardware. Make sure your paint is acrylic, not vinyl. After you have completed your cabinet refresh, this may also be a good time to install under cabinet lighting or even a new backsplash. If you want to replace your hardware instead, see our Cabinet Hardware Buying Guide for options. It’s a fantastic budget-friendly way to update your kitchen without the inconvenience of an expensive full-scale kitchen renovation. Before you start painting kitchen cabinets, it pays to prepare for the job.If possible, take one of your cabinet doors to a local paint … With latex paints, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding cure time. Lightly spray the hardware with an appropriate primer and let dry. (Plan... Clean the floors: Sweep the floors — get on your hands and knees with a cloth, if you have to. Purchase the appropriate supplies for your type of cabinets: solid wood, laminate or metal. Paint cabinet drawer fronts. If your first-choice paint applicator for the traditionally flat surface of laminate cabinets is a brush, take a moment to reconsider. Let it dry according to the directions. Above: Cabinets in Alabaster from Resene in New Zealand blogger Gem Adams’s DIY Kitchen Remodel. Get the guidance you need to help prep and paint your cabinets for a winning outcome that’s much less expensive than replacing your cabinets. Use a gentle grease remover and a damp sponge to wipe them clean, and let everything dry thoroughly. Mom and Granny came over to help me get started. Apply 2 Coats of Paint Apply a coat of paint to all the primed surfaces, finishing up with top-to-bottom strokes along the grain. Acrylic latex-based paint is durable and easy to clean up. DAY 1 Empty the space: Grab everything on your counters and on top of your upper cabinets and relocate it for the week. Using a premium Benjamin Moore nylon/polyester brush, apply the first coat of ADVANCE paint. Use painter’s tripods to lift the doors and drawers up from your painting surface. Clean all surfaces with a vacuum and a tack cloth. Now that your cabinets are painted, consider adding shelf liners. Applying primer is an important step in the painting process. Refresh your kitchen and add a pop of color by painting your cabinets. Make sure you’ll have proper ventilation there too. Next, immediately paint the remaining flat areas of the door using a mini roller. Empty the cabinets. Allowing high-quality paint to fully cure will provide a hard, durable finish. Others are padded to help protect the surface. Step 2: First coat of paint – Once the primer is dry, it’s time to start painting! Once your primer is completely dry (at least 24 hours in a well-ventilated area), it’s time to sand again. Remove the doors, drawers and hardware. If you’re using your old hardware, you can clean it or refinish it with spray paint for a new look. This is called “laying off.”. Some primers recommend sanding before painting. Back out the hinge screws from the cabinet frame and remove the doors. for help. Paint the doors and drawers. For Best Results: If you are painting a cabinet that was previously painted with a glossy paint, thoroughly scuff-sand or degloss the surface for proper adhesion. A successful paint job lies in diligent prep work, and the first few steps are focused on prepping the room and cabinets for painting. How to Prep and Paint Kitchen Cabinets Choose the Right Paint. DO NOT paint the sides of the actual drawers. Once everything is fully dry, you can begin replacing the hardware in your repainted cabinets and returning them to your newly refreshed kitchen. Surfaces that are already painted can be painted again if the existing paint is in good condition. The general flow for painting kitchen cabinets goes as follows: There are three options for painting: 1) If you want to paint with a brush you can pick up a cabinet painting kit at a hardware store for a reasonable price. For drawers, it’s typically best to paint just the drawer front piece rather than the entire drawer. Check out How to Paint a Door? You are only painting the … In essence, investing in a new set of cabinets offers more advantages than cabinet painting, with few downsides. Remove the tape labels but keep them nearby. If not, the old paint will need to be removed. Its … Apply a second coat of paint. Ready to take on more painting projects? The following directions are for applying with a brush and roller. Sand a third and final time with 220-grit sandpaper. Any dirt and dust that’s... Cover … Check out our buying guides and how-to videos for help: Don't just take our word for it. This is a great project for anyone who wants to update their kitchen cabinet doors and frames quickly and easily. Errors will be corrected where discovered, and Lowe's reserves the right to revoke any stated offer and to correct any errors, inaccuracies or omissions including after an order has been submitted. Drying times between coats vary a bit, though based on the type of paint you’re using. If you’re painting wood cabinets, our. Gently roll over any overlapping brush marks or … Receive The Latest Inspiration and Advice. Also, remember to lay off after the surface has been painted. The longer the paint dries, the more durable its finish will be, and the less likely it will stick during reinstallation. Paint the cupboards in your chosen Chalk Paint® colour, using an Annie Sloan Flat Brush for a smooth finish. 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