How to Paint Kitchen Cabinets
If your kitchen is in need of updating, but you just do not have the budget for it, you can achieve a new look by simply painting your kitchen cabinets. Choosing a new, modern color will give your kitchen a whole new look for a fraction of the cost, and can be done yourself in one afternoon.
Things you will need:
- Paint
- Paintbrushes
- Drop cloths
- Masking tape or painter’s tape
- Screwdriver
- Liquid deglosser
- Gloves
- Clean cloths
- Mild dish detergent
1. Remove the doors the cabinets using a screwdriver. Detach the doors from the hinges then remove all hardware.
2. Wash the kitchen cabinets and doors using a mild cleanser and a soft cloth.
3. Prepare the area for painting. Set out drop cloths around the working area in the kitchen to keep paint from dripping and staining floors and countertops. Tape the walls around the cabinets to guard against accidental paint transfer.
4. Apply the liquid deglosser to prepare the cabinets and doors for a new coat of paint. The deglosser will rough up the surface so the new coat of paint will stick, and is much easier than sanding. Using a clean cloth, rub the deglosser on all surfaces with circular motions. Make sure to use gloves.
5. Apply the primer to cabinet and door surfaces using a paint brush. It is recommended to use an oil based primer because it will stick better and protect against future grease stains.
6. Blend the brush strokes together by using long, steady movements, working from the top down. For the cabinet doors, start in the center and work your way out. Allow the primer to dry for the specified amount of time listed on the container.
7. Begin painting the first layer of color as soon as the primer is dry. Apply the paint in the same manner in which the primer was applied in step five. Allow the paint to completely dry. You can position fans to blow on the paint to speed up the process. A second coat of paint can be applied if desired, but it is not necessary.
8. Reinstall the cabinet doors once all layers of paint are dry. Attach the hardware to the door and the cabinets and screw the hinges back in place, keeping in line with the holes already drilled. You can also install new hardware to go with the new look of your kitchen cabinets.