Revive Your Kitchen's Look Instantly with Painted Cabinets
Is your kitchen looking a little lackluster? Dingy cabinets can make the whole room feel dark and dated. While a full kitchen remodel may be out of reach, a fresh coat of paint can transform your cabinets on a much smaller budget. Painting your existing cabinets is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to revive your kitchen's look.
Painted cabinets offer an instant upgrade that can be completed in a weekend. For a few hundred dollars and some elbow grease, you can change the whole vibe of your kitchen. Bright white cabinets can make the space feel crisp and open, while bold colors add personality. Read on for everything you need to know to DIY your dream painted kitchen cabinets.
Assessing Your Existing Cabinets
Before breaking out the paintbrushes, take some time to thoroughly examine your current cabinets. Check for any cracks, chips, or peeling that will need repair prior to painting. Test the surfaces for any gloss or residue that could impede paint adhesion. Degrease cabinets near cooking areas to remove stubborn grease buildup. Identify any missing hardware or hinges in need of replacement.
Address any issues with filler, sandpaper, cabinet cleaner, or new hardware so your painted finish turns out flawlessly. Take doors and drawers off the hinges to refinish separately for an easier painting process. Carefully remove any child safety locks or other hardware to reinstall later.
Prep Work is Key
Preparing your cabinets is the most crucial step for achieving a smooth, lasting finish. Start by removing all cabinet contents and thoroughly cleaning with a degreaser like TSP. Scuff the surface lightly with 150 grit sandpaper to help the paint adhere. Sanding roughs up the glossy cabinet surface so primer and paint bond better.
Wipe away all dust with a tack cloth. Fill any small dents, holes, or cracks with wood filler, allow to dry fully, then sand smooth. Proper prep removes any barrier between the paint and wood surface. Now your cabinets are ready for a fresh new look.
Pick Your Paint Finish and Sheen
Primers are essential for painting cabinets, as they seal the wood and provide extra adhesion for finishing paint. Oil-based primers offer the most complete sealing. For color, enamels provide a durable and scratch-resistant finish. Acrylic paints are also suitable for cabinets. Opt for cabinet-specific paints or multi-surface formulas formulated for high-traffic areas.
The sheen you choose impacts your kitchen's look and functionality. Higher sheens like semi-gloss are preferred, as they are most wipeable and stain-resistant. Satin is slightly less shiny for a softer aesthetic. Matte has a velvety finish but shows more wear. Combine sheens, like glossy lower cabinets with matte uppers, for visual interest.
Painting Process Step-By-Step
Once primed, you're ready for finishing coats in your desired color. Work in sections, completing one cabinet face at a time to prevent lap marks. Using high quality mini paint rollers and angled brushes is key for a smooth finish. Apply paint in thin, even coats allowing proper drying time between each.
Start by painting the cabinet box interiors and doors which can be done off-site for easier access. Then move to painting the exterior frames and face frames attached to the kitchen walls. Remove doors, handles and hardware for the most seamless painting workflow. Use painter's tape for protecting nearby surfaces.
Inspiration: Trending Cabinet Colors
When selecting your color palette, the options are endless. From soft and subtle to bold and vibrant, painted cabinets can transform the entire feel of your kitchen. Some of today's most popular cabinet color trends include:
- Classic white or black for a timeless, clean look
- Navy blue for drama and sophistication
- Sage green for an organic, earthy vibe
- Daring red makes cabinets the focal point
Look to your flooring, countertops, and backsplash to inform your cabinet color choices. Contrasting finishes create visual interest. Be sure to pick a color you'll love for years to come.
Tips for a Flawless Painted Cabinet Finish
Achieving a professional, sleek finish on your DIY painted kitchen cabinets requires precision and patience. Follow these tips for stunning results:
- Invest in high-quality mini rollers and angled brushes
- Work in a dust-free space to avoid particles in the finish
- Sand lightly between coats for a smooth surface
- Never overload your roller or brush with paint
Apply finish coats slowly and methodically, being careful not to leave drips. If desired, lightly distress cabinets after painting for a worn-in cottage feel. Add new knobs and pulls to finish the fresh face-lift for your kitchen.
Mistakes to Avoid with Cabinet Painting
Painting kitchen cabinets is an easy weekend project when done properly, but can quickly lead to a splotchy mess without care. Be sure to avoid these common missteps:
- Insufficient cleaning and sanding prep
- Applying paint too thickly leading to drips
- Forgetting to remove doors, drawers and hardware
- Not allowing adequate drying time between coats
Rushing through your DIY kitchen cabinet painting risks runs, uneven finish and peeling down the line. Take your time and follow steps closely. The extra care leads to a polished look that will bring your outdated kitchen back to life.
Transforming Your Kitchen on a Budget
Compared to the astronomical cost of new custom cabinetry, which can run $5,000 to $20,000, painted cabinets are a budget makeover. Doing the painting yourself rather than hiring a pro further keeps costs down.
While professional painters charge around $2,000 to $4,000, you can DIY your kitchen cabinet painting for $200 to $300 for supplies like primer, paintbrushes and paint. For the small investment, your dated oak or mahogany cabinets will look like you splurged on brand new.
Beyond a fresh coat of paint, also consider updating your kitchen backsplash, sink fixtures, lighting and hardware. Small upgrades make a big impact and can stretch your renovation dollars.
Don't resign yourself to an outdated kitchen when transforming your cabinets with paint is simple, fast and affordable. With preparation and care, you can freshen up the heart of your home in a weekend. Newly painted cabinets instantly modernize your kitchen's look.
Paint allows you to experiment with trending colors that reflect your personality. Crisp white cabinets make small spaces appear larger and brighter. Navy blue adds a dose of drama while pale green evokes organic tranquility. Whatever color you choose, prepare to fall in love with your kitchen all over again!