Learn everything you need to know about painting kitchen cabinets, from choosing the best paint to avoiding common mistakes.
This post is all about painting kitchen cabinets.
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Kitchen cabinets are one of the biggest expenses in a home remodel, sometimes even pricier than replacing kitchen furniture!
If you’re looking for the most budget-friendly way to refresh your kitchen, painting your cabinets is the way to go.
Painting kitchen cabinets is an easy, cost-effective way to breathe new life into your space.
it’s a project that can be completed in a weekend or over a few days, depending on drying times.
Whether you want to paint the entire cabinet inside and out or just focus on the doors and outer surfaces, this guide will walk you through the step-by-step process.
If you’re new to painting cabinets, this guide will walk you through the entire process step by step, from preparation to the final touches, so you can achieve a flawless, long-lasting finish.
Similar post that you might be interested in: 14 Best Kitchen Cabinets Color Ideas To Transform Your Kitchen
Painting Kitchen Cabinets:
Supplies Breakdown:
Here’s a basic list of supplies that you need:
- High-quality cabinet paint (1-2 gallons)
- Primer
- Painter’s tape
- Degreaser cleaner
- Fine-grit sandpaper (120–220 grit)
- Paintbrushes & foam rollers
- Drop cloths
- Sawhorses or a worktable (optional)
Step 1: Prep Your Cabinets for Painting
1. Empty Cabinets for a Clean Workspace
Remove everything inside your cabinets to avoid dust, paint splatters, or accidental damage.
2. Remove Doors, Drawers & Hardware
Unscrew all cabinet doors, drawers, and hardware.
Label each piece with tape so you can reattach them in the correct spots.
3. Clean Thoroughly with a Degreaser
Grease and grime can prevent paint from adhering.
Use a degreaser like TSP to remove dirt, then wipe everything dry.
4. Fill Holes & Sand for a Smooth Surface
- Fill scratches and old hardware holes with wood filler.
- Sand the surfaces lightly with 120–220 grit sandpaper to help the primer stick.
- Avoid over-sanding—you just need to remove gloss, not strip cabinets down to bare wood.
5. Choose the Right Paint for Cabinets
Not all paints work well on cabinets! Here are the best options:
- Acrylic enamel paint (Best for beginners! Dries fast & durable)
- Oil-based paint (Extremely durable but takes longer to dry)
- Hybrid enamel paint (Low-VOC & best of both worlds)
Step 2: Prime & Paint for a Professional Look
6. Apply Primer for a Strong Base
Primer seals the surface prevents stains, and helps paint stick better.
For the smoothest finish, apply it with a foam roller.
Don’t forget to use a stain-blocking primer for wood cabinets and a bonding primer for laminate cabinets.
7. Let the Primer Dry Completely
Let the primer dry for at least 24 hours before painting to ensure a strong bond.
8. Use Thin Coats of Paint for Best Results
Apply 2–3 thin coats, allowing each coat to dry for at least 24 hours before adding another.
9. Avoid Brush Strokes & Roller Marks
For a smooth finish, use a foam roller for large areas, a synthetic brush for details, and a paint sprayer for a flawless look.
Lightly sand with 220-grit sandpaper between coats for the best results.
Step 3: Finishing Touches & Reassembly
10. Choose the Right Finish for Durability
– Gloss & Semi-Gloss: Most durable, easiest to clean.
– Satin: Softer look, still good for cleaning.
11. Reattach Doors & Upgrade Hardware
Once the final coat is completely dry, reattach your doors and hardware.
Consider upgrading to modern handles and hinges for a fresh look.
12. Let Paint Fully Cure Before Heavy Use
Even if the paint feels dry, it takes 2–3 weeks to fully cure.
Avoid scrubbing or placing heavy objects against cabinets during this time.
13. Clean Up & Store Leftover Paint
- Wash brushes and rollers immediately after use.
- Store leftover paint in a cool, dry place for future touch-ups.
Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid:
- Skipping primer: Leads to peeling and uneven color.
- Applying thick coats: Causes drips and a streaky finish.
- Not waiting between coats: Rushing leads to smudging or damage.
- Painting over greasy cabinets: The paint won’t stick properly.
- Choosing the wrong paint: Regular wall paint won’t last on cabinets!
This is everything for the ideas for painting kitchen cabinets.
