How To Paint Kitchen Cupboards
A kitchen is the heart of a home and a fresh coat of paint on the cupboards can breathe new life into your space, transforming it from drab to fab without breaking the bank.
This guide will walk you through the process of painting your kitchen cupboards, whether you're a DIY novice or a seasoned pro. We'll cover everything from the tools you'll need to the techniques that will ensure a flawless finish.
Essential Tools & Equipment
Step 1: Remove Your Cupboards
-
Using a screwdriver, remove the cupboard doors from the hinges and unscrew the handles.
- Keep all the screws, handles and hinges safely tucked away so you don’t lose them when you need to put the cupboards back on later.
-
Put on some safety glasses and cover your area with a protective dust sheet.
Step 2: Clean Your Cupboards
-
Use sugar soap diluted in water to clean your cupboards thoroughly.
-
This is essential, as kitchen cupboards are often exposed to grease and grime – no matter how often you wipe them down.
-
Use a sponge to scrub every inch of the surface you plan to paint.
Step 3: Sanding The Surface
-
After cleaning, lightly sand the surface of your cupboards using fine sandpaper or power sander. This helps the paint adhere better to the surface.
- Wipe off any dust with a damp cloth.
Step 4: Apply Primer
-
To get a really professional finish, apply a primer to the surface.
-
Using a mini paint roller or paint brush, apply a coat of primer to both sides of the cupboards and the inside edges.
- Allow the primer to completely dry according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Step 5: Apply The First Coat Of Paint
-
Use a mini roller or even a small handheld paint sprayer to apply the first coat of paint.
-
Paint the edges and any details in the surface with a paintbrush to ensure it’s properly covered.
Step 6: Apply The Second Coat Of Paint
- After allowing the first coat to dry for a few hours – or however long the paint manufacturer recommends – apply the second coat.
- If you used a sprayer for the first coat, consider using a brush for the second coat or vice versa. This ensures an even and thorough coverage.
Step 7: Put The Hardware Back
- Using a screwdriver, attach the kitchen cupboard doors back onto the hinges.
- Secure the handles, or replace with new cabinet handles if you want a complete makeover.
