How to Paint Kitchen Cabinets

Many people want to know how to paint kitchen cabinets so they can update their kitchen without replacing their old cabinetry.  Painting kitchen cabinets can be done by just about anyone, but in order to get a professional looking finish you need to do it right the first time. By following these steps you will be able to make your paint job last for years to come.

1. Remove doors and drawers, labeling each as you go. There is nothing more frustrating than finishing a perfect paint job only to be unsure where each piece goes.  By writing down the location of each piece, you will be able to avoid that frustration.
2. Take off any hardware and place like pieces in a plastic bag for safe keeping.  Be sure to keep hinges, drawer pulls and screws together so they are easier to find when it comes time to put them back on.
3. Clean your cabinets with soap and water to remove all grease and grime.  Then wipe down with a large dry towel to help the cabinets dry faster.
4. Let dry completely before continuing. If you do not wait for the cabinets to completely dry, the integrity of the finish will be damaged.  So make sure your kitchen cabinets are completely dry before you begin painting them.
5. Sand the cabinets with 150 grit sand paper to lightly rough up the surface. A slightly rough surface will give the primer something to grip, making chipping less likely.
6. Wipe down the cabinets with a dry cloth to remove any loose particles. Loose particles from sanding will end up in your paint job. This is essential for a professional look when you paint your kitchen cabinets. So make sure you do not skip this step.
7. Prime the cabinets with oil-based primer. Primer is like the glue that will help your paint stick. So by using primer, your paint job will become more durable. If you want your hard work to stand the test of time, primer is a must.
8. Apply three to four light coats of latex paint with a brush, letting dry between coats. Avoid the urge to use heavy coats in order to finish the job quickly. Light coats will help prevent brush marks and give a more professional finish. So take the time to do it right the first time.
9. Add a coat of polyurethane after all coats have dried to achieve a long lasting finish.  Though it is not necessary to use polyurethane, it will make your paint job more durable which will help it last through years of heavy use.
10. Let the polyurethane set for at least 24 hours before putting the cabinet doors back on. Make sure you give the polyurethane time to cure.  If you handle the cabinets before they have time to fully set, the integrity of the finish will be harmed.
11. Replace all hardware and hang the cabinet doors back up, using the labeling as a guide. Once you have put your cabinets back into place, all you need to do is enjoy the rewards of your hard work. Invite some friends over and show off your painted kitchen cabinets.