Are you keen to give your kitchen a fresh new look, but don’t fancy spending money on an expensive refit? If you’re happy with the layout and your existing cabinets are sound, why not give them a fresh coat of paint? And, if you do the work yourself, you could even have enough left in your budget for some new handles and worktops.
Here are some expert tips on how to paint your kitchen cupboards to ensure you get the results you are looking for. Our tips include the best paints to use and how to prepare your cupboard door to ensure you get the best finish possible. Let’s get to work, shall we?
What is the First Thing You Should Do?
The starting point for any paint job in your kitchen is to remove the kitchen cupboard doors. This is generally a simple task, as most kitchen doors just unclip at the hinges. If you paint horizontally, removing the doors will make you less prone to drips and runs.
If you are in a restricted space, or simply can’t remove the doors, make sure you cover the hinges with masking tape, taking care to cover all the metalwork. Always remove the handles and make sure you put down dust sheets or paper to protect the floor.
What Type of Paint Would Suit My Kitchen Cabinets?
When it comes to choosing a paint for your kitchen cabinets, you have numerous options. You might decide to opt for an emulsion paint. Or, you may prefer to use a paint with a satin or eggshell finish if achieving a shine is your goal. Whatever type of paint you ultimately decided on, you’ll have an extensive choice of colours.
When it comes to the colour, think about which shades would best complement the decor of your kitchen. It’s also best to stick to lighter colours if you wish to maximise the available light in your kitchen.
Can You Just Paint Over Cabinets?
Many paints are suitable for all types of wooden and acrylic cabinets. However, if you’re aiming to achieve the best possible finish, some preparation is necessary.
What is the Best Way to Prepare Cabinets for Painting?
There are no shortcuts when it comes to preparing cabinets for painting. Always make sure you clean the doors to remove the inevitable build-up of grease and grime. When doing this, it’s always better to use a specialist degreaser.
The next thing is to ensure the paint will grip; a quick light sanding with 150-250 grit paper should do the trick. You should be just aiming for a smooth, even surface. Once you have achieved this, make sure you wipe off the dust with a damp cloth and allow the surface to dry completely.
Priming the Cupboards
In nearly all cases, your cupboard doors will require a primer before you apply the top coat. The type of primer you use will be totally dependent on the type of paint you intend to use for your top coat. For example, if you are looking to give your cabinets a shiny look by using a gloss paint, it is imperative you use a specialist gloss undercoat when preparing your doors. Using a specialist gloss undercoat will ensure you get the finish you desire for your cabinets.
Alternatively, if you are looking for a matt finish, then it is important that you use the relevant undercoat. You will usually be able to get advice from paint stores as to which undercoat is best suited to your needs.
There are some paints that don’t need a primer; these tend to be furniture specific paints and it will usually state on the tin if a primer is not required.
Top Tips for Painting Your Kitchen Doors
Take your time, there is no rush. To get the best results, it is better to allow time for the layers to build up. If you try to just splash the paint on quickly and thickly, you won’t get the finish you are looking for. Make sure you do some light sanding and wipe away dust between coats. Patience is a virtue, especially when painting. Make sure you allow at least 4 hours’ drying time for primer – and 24 hours for other coats.
Always expect to apply a minimum of two coats of colour, especially if you are looking for a solid colour. It is worth noting that a fine foam roller will provide you with a modern, flat finish, while using a brush will give a more classical effect.
Supplies at the Ready – Time to Transform your Kitchen!
While this is not a definitive list, hopefully the tips listed here will help you with your project. Remember, updating the look of your kitchen doesn’t have to cost a fortune – it can be achieved with a bit of imagination and careful application. No matter what colour and finish you have in mind for your kitchen cabinets, we wish you the best of luck with your efforts – and hope the finished results match your expectations!