Repaint Cabinets Like New Without Sanding

Upgrading our home with a kitchen makeover can be exciting yet daunting, especially when limited by tight budgets and time constraints. The prospect of sanding down and repainting tired old cabinets might sound laborious and messy. However, with the right prep work and paint products, it's possible to achieve a sleek, updated look without the hassle of sanding.

In this tutorial, we'll walk through an effective process for repainting cabinets without sanding - saving you time and energy while still resulting in a smooth, durable finish. From cleaning to priming to painting techniques, we've got you covered with pro tips and recommendations. Let's revive your kitchen while avoiding the dust and stimulation of sanding!

Supplies Needed

While the prep work is key, having the right painting supplies is also essential for success. Before starting, gather the following materials:

• Cabinet cleaner and degreaser
• Liquid deglosser or liquid sandpaper
• Filler putty for patching holes
• High-bond primers for slick surfaces
• Durable cabinet paint in your preferred sheen
• Angled paintbrushes for detail work
• Paint roller kit for larger surfaces
• Paint trays, rags, masking tape, etc.

Prep Work

Deep Clean Cabinets

Thorough cleaning is non-negotiable for proper paint adhesion. Be sure to:

• Remove all cabinet contents and shelves
• Wash down all surfaces with a degreasing cleaner using a sponge or rag
• Rinse cabinets and let them fully dry
• Look for problem areas like splatters or soap buildup and clean meticulously

It's crucial to eliminate any residue so grime doesn't impede paint bonding or cause future peeling issues. Take your time to clean thoroughly before moving onto subsequent steps.

Fill Holes & Imperfections

Examine cabinet fronts, doors, and frames for small holes from old hardware or defects in the wood. Use a filler putty to patch and smooth over imperfections for the best finished appearance.

Using a putty knife, press filler into holes or cracks, overfilling slightly. Once dry, sand flush for an even finish. Wipe away dust with a dry cloth after sanding before priming.

Degloss Surfaces

For paint to properly adhere, the cabinets must be deglossed first to etch the shiny surface. A deglosser or liquid sandpaper easily achieves this by breaking down the existing finish.

Use a scrub pad or abrasive sponge to vigorously scuff all cabinet surfaces with deglosser. Focus on worn, shiny areas prone to resisting paint. Let the deglosser sit for 15 minutes before rinsing clean.

The cabinets should now have a dull, porous surface for the primer and paint to grab onto. Be very thorough with deglossing for the most durable finish.

Painting Process

Choose Paint Colors

The options feel endless when selecting a color for your refreshed kitchen! Keep the following tips in mind:

• Light, neutral cabinet colors help rooms feel airy and spacious
• Darker paint colors can provide an elegant, cozy effect
• Complement your countertop and backsplash materials
• Consider creating accent doors in a bold hue

Most importantly, choose a color you love to enjoy your updated space for years to come!

Remove & Label Hardware

For easier painting access, remove all hardware pieces like hinges and handles prior to priming and painting. Make sure to:

• Organize hardware pieces in labeled bags
• Fill any hardware holes with masking tape
• Take doors fully off hinges if possible

This protects the hardware from paint while allowing you to fully coat cabinet surfaces more easily.

Prime Cabinets

Quality primer helps provide extra adhesion and a smooth foundation prior to painting. For laminate or melamine surfaces specifically, ensure your primer has bonding properties designed for slick surfaces.

Thoroughly stir primer before and during application. Use a combination of angled brush and mini foam roller to coat all cabinet surfaces evenly. Apply in thin, even layers and avoid pooling primer in corners or edges.

Allow primer to fully dry for at least 24 hours before painting. Now you've prepped your cabinets like a pro and are ready for the fun part - the color!

Apply Paint Coats

Using high quality, durable enamel or acrylic latex paint suited for cabinets, you can now bring your dream colors to life!

• Stir paint thoroughly before and periodically throughout application
• Apply 2-3 thin, even coats allowing proper drying time between coats
• Work methodically to ensure coverage without drips
• Use angled brush for detail work; smooth foam roller for large areas

Take your time with each coat. Rushing through application can compromise quality and lead to uneven finish or drips. Patience pays off!

Final Touches

Reinstall Hardware

Once fully cured in 1-2 weeks, reattach the hardware pieces removed earlier. Make sure paint has hardened completely first to avoid damage when drilling or tightening hardware back into place.

Refer to your labeled hardware bags to ensure correct installation. Feel satisfied clicking those shiny handles onto pristine, revitalized cabinets!

Admire Beautiful Results!

May your perfectly painted cabinets provide joy and function for many years before your next revamp! What project will you try next without sanding?

FAQs

We know you likely have some burning questions about the specifics of repainting without sanding. Below we've addressed some of the most common inquiries:

Is special paint required?

While all-in-one paint and primer products work for some applications, dedicated primer and cabinetry paint are ideal for best adhesion and durability.

How is no sanding effective?

Thorough cleaning, deglossing, and quality primer allow paint to bond without sanding off the existing surface.

What sheen is best?

Cabinets work well with egghell or satin finishes. Semi-gloss can also provide durability and easy cleaning.

Use high quality synthetic bristle brushes and apply paint in thin, even coats to prevent visible brush strokes.

For any other questions, drop them below and we'll respond promptly! Best of luck with your cabinet transformations.