Living Room + Kitchen: Painting

Your kitchen is the heart of your home, and if you're looking for a budget-friendly way to give it a fresh new look, painting your kitchen cabinets can work wonders. This simple yet effective DIY project can completely transform the appearance of your kitchen, giving it a modern and stylish appeal. In this blog post, I’ll delve into painting kitchen cabinets, discussing the necessary steps, materials, and techniques to achieve professional-looking results without the cost.

Planning and Preparation:

Before diving into the painting process, proper planning and preparation are crucial. Start by assessing the condition of your cabinets. Are they in good shape overall, or do they require repairs or adjustments? Take note of any loose hinges, handles, or peeling surfaces. Addressing these issues beforehand will ensure a smooth painting process.

  • Time to gather your tools and materials. I like to think about it in 3 buckets:

    • Area prep: painter's tape, drop cloths or painter’s plastic. Adequately covering the space will help you work cleaner and prevent paint from potentially getting onto unwanted surfaces.

    • Paint prep: sandpaper or a sanding block. Alternatively, you can use a good degreaser to clean the surface of the cabinets and a scotchpad to scuff the surface to accept primer.

    • Painting: a good quality primer, paint brushes or rollers and your chosen paint. Also, depending on how much you are needing to paint, it may be a great investment to purchase an HVLP paint sprayer. Remember to use paint that is specifically formulated for cabinets, as it will provide a durable and long-lasting finish.

Remove and Label Cabinet Doors:

To achieve the best results, it's recommended to remove the cabinet doors and hardware before painting. Use a screwdriver to carefully detach the doors from their hinges. As you remove each door, label them with a piece of tape indicating their original location. This will save you time and frustration when it comes to reassembling them later.

Cleaning and Sanding:

Properly cleaning and sanding your cabinets is vital to ensure a smooth and flawless paint finish. Start by removing any grease or grime using a mild detergent and water. Rinse thoroughly and allow the cabinets to dry completely. Alternatively, you can purchase a good degreaser to help remove the grime if it’s becoming a struggle.

Next, lightly sand the surfaces of the cabinets and doors using a fine-grit sandpaper, sanding block or an orbital sander. This step helps remove any existing finish or imperfections, allowing the primer and paint to adhere better. Remember to wipe away any dust generated from sanding before moving on to the next step.

Applying Primer:

Priming your cabinets is a crucial step that ensures the paint adheres properly and provides a smooth, long-lasting finish. Use a high-quality primer specifically designed for cabinets, as it will create a solid foundation for the paint.

Start by applying the primer to the cabinet frames using a roller or paintbrush, making sure to cover all surfaces evenly. For the cabinet doors, it's best to lay them flat on a drop cloth and apply the primer using a roller for a consistent finish. I got great results using a foam roller. Allow the primer to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions before moving on to the next step.

Painting Techniques:

Finally, it's time to bring your vision to life by applying the paint. Begin with the cabinet frames, using a paintbrush or roller to achieve a smooth and even coat. Apply multiple thin layers rather than one thick coat for better results. Lightly sanding between coats with fine grit sandpaper helps to achieve a smooth finish.

When it comes to painting the cabinet doors, consider using a spray gun or opting for a professional spray-on finish for a flawless and professional look. This method ensures a smooth, streak-free surface, but it requires proper ventilation and careful application.


Painting kitchen cabinets is an excellent way to revitalize your kitchen without breaking the bank. By following the steps outlined above and employing the right techniques, you can transform your kitchen into a stylish and welcoming space. Remember to allow adequate drying time between coats and handle the cabinets with care when reassembling them. With a little patience and attention to detail, you'll achieve professional-looking results that will breathe new life into your kitchen!


Materials

  • Painter’s Tape

  • Painter’s Plastic

  • Fine Grit Sanding Block

  • Degreaser

  • Orbital Sander

  • Paintbrush

  • 6” Foam Roller

  • Wagner Control Spray QX2 HVLP Sprayer

  • Zinsser BIN Primer

  • Benjamin Moore Advance (Simply White in Satin Finish)

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Living Room + Kitchen: Plan and Prep