How to Paint Cabinets

Simple procedure to properly paint any cabinet

Just do the following steps to attain the professional look you want.

Prep The Surface

* Remove all hardware (if any)

* Be sure the cabinet surface is clean of all dirt and grime - inside and out.

* Lightly sand (w/ #220 grit sandpaper)to break the surface. This will promote proper paint adhesion to the surface. Always sand with the grain (if wood, or wood veneer). If no grain, sand vertically.

You don't have to rub and rub when sanding - just a light "break" to the existing surface is all that's required.

* After sanding, wipe with tack cloth to remove excess dust. If you don't have any tack, use a clean dry (or lightly damp) rag.

Begin Painting

To paint cabinets, beegin by painting the top corners, the ceiling, and work your way down the two sides, back panel, bottom corners, and finally, the floor.

- NOTE - Always keep brush strokes short (3" - 6" in length), and following grain pattern for a consistent look.

* Next, paint the cabinet front, or face (the part the door hangs on), and then the side(s) if showing. Paint the door last.

- Hint - you might want to tape over the hinges with masking tape to keep paint off metal.

* Apply additional coat(s) if necessary.

* Clean, and re-install hardware.

You're probably painting your cabinets in either satin, or semi-gloss sheen. You also will probably use either a latex, or an oil-based paint. Click the preceding link to find out the qualities of both types of paints, and decide which one is best for your project.

Before painting the cabinet with your finish coat, you should always apply a coat of primer to the surface to ensure a solid base to which the finish coat will properly adhere. Always do this step before finish painting.

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