Just Cans of Spray Paint? Yes! Kitchen Cabinet Makeovers

Outdated cabinets can make even the nicest kitchens look drab and boring. Yet most homeowners dread the upheaval and expense of a full-blown kitchen remodel. Is there an easier and more affordable way to upgrade your space?

The answer is a resounding yes! With some simple supplies like cans of spray paint, you can quickly transform those worn cabinets into a stunning, custom-look focal point. Read on to learn why a DIY spray paint makeover is easier than you think.

Why Kitchen Cabinet Makeovers Seem So Hard

Refacing or replacing kitchen cabinets runs $1,000s in both labor and materials. Installation alone requires carefully removing your existing cabinets, resurfacing or installing new boxes, then adjusting and returning doors/drawers. This process can take skilled carpenters days or weeks.

Understandably, such an invasive, expensive project leaves most homeowners feeling too overwhelmed to even attempt a makeover. And while refinishing cabinets by hand with brush-applied paint is cheaper, this painstaking process tries even the most patient DIYer's stamina.

Overcoming Common Cabinet Makeover Obstacles

The thought of prepping and painting a kitchen full of cabinets is daunting to beginners and veterans alike. Yet when we break down the process into simple steps, spray painting cabinets is very approachable.

An easy DIY spray paint finish skips the intense labor of stripping, sanding, and brushwork with far less prep work. Spraying is also more forgiving technique-wise for novices compared to meticulous brushwork.

What Supplies are Needed for Spray Painting Cabinets?

One major perk of spray painting kitchen cabinets yourself using cans versus hiring a professional sprayer is the minimal supplies you need. With just a few key items available at any hardware store or home center, you'll prep, paint, and protect your cabinets like a pro.

Spray Paint Options

While regular spray paints work, formulations specifically made for use on cabinets and wood furniture yield superior, longer-lasting results. Brands like Rust-Oleum Cabinet Transformations or Krylon's Fusion for Plastic & Wood offer advanced technologies and spray nozzles ideal for DIYers.

Handy Painting Supplies

• Painters tape
• Tarp or drop cloths
• Sandpaper
• Degreaser and/or TSP substitute cleaner
• Paint brushes for trim
• Foam rollers and tray (optional)
• Painter's caulk (for cracks/holes)

With these basic supplies handy, you're ready to tackle those outdated cabinets!

DIY Cabinet Prep Work Simplified

Preparing your cabinets thoroughly before spraying may feel tedious, yet this upfront work is crucial for spray paint to properly adhere.

Empty Cabinets and Clean Interiors

Removing everything from your cabinets allows you to fully clean interior surfaces. Wash shelves, sides, floors and doors with a degreaser or mild cleaner like TSP substitute to eliminate grease, dirt, or residue.

Detach Doors and Hardware

Taking cabinet doors off the boxes simplifies spraying the frame and doors separately. Carefully number doors and boxes to ensure proper reinstallation later. Also remove knobs, pulls, hinges (doors only) and hardware trim pieces before painting.

Fix Holes/Imperfections

Inspect all cabinets for cracks, holes, or flaws in the wood. Use painter's caulk and/or wood putty to patch and fill any defects so spray paint coats uniformly.

Sand Surfaces

For spray paint to properly bond, glossy cabinet surfaces must be dulled. Lightly sanding with 150-220 grit sandpaper de-glosses wood without fully stripping it. Sand every area that will be painted, wiping away all dust with a tack cloth when done.

Tape Off Floors, Walls and Countertops

Shield any nearby surfaces with plastic drop cloths to prevent overspray. Use painter's tape for clean lines where cabinets meet countertops, appliance fronts, or walls.

Painting Cabinets Using Spray Cans

Once properly prepped, it's finally time to work your spray painting magic! With some handy tips and the right techniques, you can easily get professional-looking results.

Knowing Spray Paint Basics

Always read manufacturers' directions since formulas and nozzles vary, but here are helpful guidelines for most spray paint cabinet projects:

• Prime first for better adhesion and longer wear
• Light, even coats work far better than heavy spraying
• Multiple thin coats bond better than one thick coat
• Fully dry each coat per label directions before adding more
• Prepainted surfaces may require compatible primer

Achieving Beautiful Results

Patience and practice help create flawless spray painted cabinets. Adhere to these simple spraying steps and tips for stunning outcomes even first-timers can accomplish:

• Hold cans 6 to 8 inches away at all times
• Keep spray nozzle at consistent distance and speed
• Maintain steady back & forth motion perpendicular to surface
• Overlap lightly for uniform coverage on larger areas
• Spray light coats only until fully covered
• Rotate nozzle before storing cans to prevent clogs

Additional Painting Considerations

For the most seamless, professional-looking finish, keep these pointers in mind:

• Spot prime repaired cracks/holes before painting
• Use angled mini paint brushes for corners or trim
• Foam rollers evenly smooth tricky areas
• Work in a dust-free area away from direct sun
• Maintain optimal can/surface temperature
• Work left to right systematically

Refinishing Your Kitchen Cabinets

Reinstallation and Hardware

Before rehanging doors, allow paint to cure at least 24 hours, checking manufacturer's label for dry times. Carefully realign doors on frames using your numbering system and reattach hinges. Replace all hardware like knobs, pulls, and brackets once fully cured.

Protecting Your Painted Cabinets

Your refreshed cabinets will provide years of beauty when properly cared for. Gently open/close doors at first to prevent sticking. For extra protection consider adding another coat of sealing topcoat spray.

FAQs on DIY Cabinet Resprays

What finish sheen works best?

Cabinets take more abuse than walls, so most experts recommend low to mid-sheen paints. Eggshell or satin finishes better conceal scuffs and stains than higher-sheen gloss.

How durable is spray paint on cabinets?

Advanced spray paint formulas like Krylon Fusion and Rust-Oleum Transformations hold up impressively well on cabinets and woodwork when applied properly. Both brands tout long-lasting results on par with professional finishes.

Can I spray paint wood laminate cabinets?

While laminate isn't as paint-friendly as real wood, specialty primers and spray paints made for plastics adhere decently well. Scuff sand glossy areas first for better results.

With minimal cost and labor, spray painting outdated cabinets opens up amazing, budget-friendly makeover possibilities. Armed with some handy supplies and tips, even novice DIYers can quickly achieve gorgeously updated kitchen cabinets.

Ditch the complicated installation and expense of brand new cabinets, and let simple cans of spray paint unlock your kitchen's full potential.