Simple Kitchen Cabinet Color Change Tips
Changing the color of your kitchen cabinets can completely transform the look and feel of your kitchen. Whether you're going for a modern, minimalist look or want to warm up your space, a fresh coat of paint is an affordable way to revamp your kitchen without a full remodel.
Follow these simple tips for a smooth, successful DIY kitchen cabinet color change project.
Plan Your Kitchen Cabinet Color Change
Before you grab a paintbrush, take time to think through your plans. Proper planning ensures you choose the right color, buy enough supplies, and set realistic expectations.
Determine Your Budget
Changing cabinet color with paint is budget-friendly compared to replacing cabinets entirely. Still, costs add up for supplies. Determine your budget upfront to guide decisions.
Choose Cabinet Paint Color
Selecting the perfect cabinet color is exciting yet challenging. Consider the style of your kitchen, countertops, floors, and overall aesthetic you want. Blacks suit modern kitchens, whites create a French country vibe, and two-tone schemes add interest. Bring home paint samples to view in your space before committing.
Select Paint Finish
Cabinets require durable finishes that resist moisture, grease, and wear. Popular options include satin, semi-gloss, and high-gloss. Satin offers a soft subtle sheen, while glossy finishes boast shine and depth.
Calculate How Much Paint You Need
Measuring cabinet dimensions helps determine how many paint gallons you need. Having too little paint causes problems, while extra paint goes to waste. Purchase the right amount for efficiency.
Gather Necessary Supplies
A successful DIY paint job requires the right tools. Stock up on supplies like painters tape, tarps, primer, high-quality brushes and rollers, sandpaper, filler, and more before starting.
Prep Work
Proper prep work ensures the new paint adheres smoothly and evenly. Rushing this step can ruin the paint job. Allow plenty of time for thorough surface preparation.
Clean Cabinets Thoroughly
Remove all grease, dirt, and debris with a degreasing cleaner made for kitchen surfaces. Sugary condiment spills, oil splatters, and film build up are culprits. A clean start helps the paint stick.
Sand Cabinets Lightly
Light sanding opens the pores of the cabinet wood or laminate to accept primer and paint. Use fine 220-grit sandpaper to scuff surfaces without damaging them.
Fill Holes and Imperfections
Fill any cracks, holes, or flaws with wood filler according to package directions. Sand smooth when dry. This provides a level surface for a flawless painted finish.
Wash Cabinets with TSP
Washing cabinets with trisodium phosphate (TSP) after sanding removes residue and degreases for optimal paint adhesion. Rinse thoroughly and let dry completely.
Mask Off Areas Not Being Painted
Use painter's tape to mask off countertops, floors, walls, and any areas not being painted. This keeps overspray and drips contained to simplify cleanup.
Paint Cabinets
With prep work complete, the fun part begins--applying that fresh new color! Follow these tips for smooth, professional-looking painted cabinets.
Apply Primer
Quality primer creates a strong bond between the paint and cabinet surface. For best results, use a primer formulated especially for painting kitchen cabinets and woodwork.
Allow Primer to Dry Completely
Rushing the painting steps can ruin the finish. Allow primer to dry thoroughly per manufacturer directions before applying cabinet paint. This prevents drips, runs, and uneven coverage.
Apply Cabinet Paint in Thin, Even Coats
Thin coats prevent drips and create a smooth finish. Using high-quality mini paint roller sleeves and angled sash brushes suited for cabinet painting also improves results.
Allow Proper Dry Time Between Coats
Just like primer, cabinet paint needs ample drying time between coats. This allows each fresh coat to fully adhere for a cohesive, lasting finish.
Finish Details
Once painting is complete, finishing touches give your kitchen a pulled-together, polished look. Don't skip these important steps before enjoying the finished product.
Remove Painter's Tape
Carefully remove all painter's tape from edges and surfaces. Pull slowly at a 45-degree angle to prevent ripping up fresh paint.
Reinstall Hardware and Fixtures
Fill old hardware holes with wood filler, let dry fully, then drill new holes if needed before reinstalling handles, hinges, and other fixtures.
Touch Up Paint if Needed
Inspect for any missed spots or flaws needing extra paint. Make touch ups now before the new color cures fully.
Allow Paint to Cure Fully
It takes 30 days for cabinet paint to cure completely. Avoid cleaning or placing heavy items on cabinets during this time.
Maintain New Cabinet Color
Your cabinet makeover deserves proper care and maintenance. Follow these tips to keep your painted kitchen cabinets looking like new for years.
Keep Cabinets Clean
Promptly wipe up spills, grease splatters, and dirt to prevent stains. Use cleaners made specifically for cabinetry.
Use Cooktop Ventilation
Properly venting your stove, range, and cooktop prevents harmful grease buildup that yellows cabinet surfaces.
Spot Clean as Needed
For scuffs and tougher grime that wipes won't remove, use a mild cleaner and gentle scrubbing with a soft cloth.
Reseal Every 2-3 Years
Applying new protective topcoat sealant every few years shields against wear, moisture damage, and grime buildup.
With the right prep work, materials, and techniques, a DIY kitchen cabinet color change is totally achievable. The transformation can breathe new life into your kitchen without the expense of full cabinet replacement. Just remember to thoroughly clean and sand cabinets, apply quality primer and paint in thin even coats, and properly maintain the renewed finish.
Follow this guide for a smooth, successful cabinet painting project you'll love. The splurge-worthy results are well worth the effort!