How to Paint Kitchen Cabinets – Step-by-Step Guide (+ Cost Breakdown) 🎨✨
Give your kitchen a budget-friendly makeover with a fresh coat of paint! This guide covers prep, painting, and pro tips for a smooth, durable finish.
📋 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Remove Cabinet Doors & Hardware
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Label doors/drawers with painter’s tape (e.g., “U1” for upper left).
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Remove hinges, knobs, and handles.
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Clean surfaces with TSP cleaner or degreaser to remove grease and grime.
2. Sand Surfaces
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Lightly sand with 120-150 grit sandpaper (or deglosser) to help paint adhere.
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Wipe away dust with a tack cloth.
3. Repair & Prime
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Fill dents/holes with wood filler, sand smooth.
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Apply stain-blocking primer (like Zinsser BIN or Kilz) if:
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Cabinets are stained/dark.
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You’re painting over laminate (use bonding primer).
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4. Paint!
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Best paint for cabinets:
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Oil-based (most durable, longer dry time).
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Water-based enamel (e.g., Benjamin Moore Advance, Sherwin-Williams Emerald Urethane).
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Use a high-density foam roller (smooth finish) + angled brush for edges.
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Apply 2-3 thin coats, sanding lightly with 220 grit between coats.
5. Reassemble
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Let paint cure fully (3-7 days) before reattaching hardware.
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Adjust hinges if needed for alignment.
💰 Cost Breakdown (For 10×10 Kitchen)
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Paint (1 gal.) | $40–$80 |
| Primer (1 gal.) | $20–$50 |
| Sandpaper & Supplies | $15–$30 |
| New Hardware (optional) | $50–$200 |
| Total | $125–$360 |
*(DIY saves $1,500+ vs. hiring a pro!)*
🎨 Pro Tips for a Flawless Finish
✔ Paint in a dust-free area (garage or covered space).
✔ Use a paint sprayer for ultra-smooth results (rent for ~$50/day).
✔ Add glaze for an antique look, or chalk paint for matte texture.
✔ Replace hardware for an instant upgrade (soft-close hinges, modern pulls).
⏳ Time Estimate
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Prep: 1–2 days
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Painting/Drying: 3–5 days
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Total: 4–7 days
Why Paint?
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90% cheaper than replacing cabinets.
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Customizable colors (try navy, sage, or classic white).
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Boosts home value with a modern look.
Pair with:
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New backsplash
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Under-cabinet lighting
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Open shelving
Need color ideas? Try:
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Warm Whites (Alabaster SW, Chantilly Lace BM)
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Moody Blues (Hale Navy BM, Naval SW)
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Earth Tones (Evergreen Fog SW, Urbane Bronze SW)
Would you like a chalk-paint tutorial or before/after inspiration? 😊
