How to paint kitchen cabinets

Whether you have a laminate or wood kitchen, painting the kitchen cabinets is an easy weekend DIY project that can totally transform your room

How to paint kitchen cabinets

Published: December 8, 2021 at 11:24 am

W ant to update your kitchen but can't afford to buy a new one? Painting the kitchen cabinets can be a quick way to update your kitchen and create a whole new look at a fraction of the cost.

You can also refresh old appliances with paint to complete the look and what about creating a stylish larder out of a wardrobe?

Not sure what colour to go for? Check out our guide to the kitchen trends that will be all the rage in 2022 or take a look at our different colour schemes for ideas and inspiration

Hayley Simmons, Head of Merchandising for Magnet, has this advice…

'Choosing a décor scheme for a kitchen that’s practical and stylish but will also stand the test of time is tricky as it’s important to create a space that you’ll love for years to come.

'Therefore, the main piece of advice I’d give when it comes to incorporating colour in a new kitchen, is to look for something that’s personal and perhaps even emotive to you. Don’t be too led by trends as sometimes it can be hard to tell what will stick around and what won’t. Do plenty of research and pick a colour that suits your personal tastes, fits in with the rest of your home and works well for your lifestyle.

'Choose a colour not just for how it looks, but for how it makes you feel. Colour can evoke memories, moods and even tastes or smells. Keep this in mind to help you design a kitchen that’s unique and one that you’ll never grow tired of.'

How to paint kitchen cabinets

Step 1

You don’t necessarily need to take all the doors off and if you don’t mind the inside of your cupboards staying the same colour, you could just paint the exterior to save time.

Step 2

First, cover tiles, appliances and worktops with masking tape and remove all the handles before cleaning the cupboard and drawer fronts with sugar soap. Next, lightly sand the surfaces with sanding blocks that will get into any corners and grooves.

Step 3

Use a good-quality small roller for the best finish, and a natural bristle paintbrush for harder-to-reach areas. Apply a thin layer of wood primer and allow to dry for four-to-six hours.

Step 4

Once it’s dry, you can apply your chosen paint to the cupboard fronts first, then move onto the trims. A second or third coat might be needed for the best finish. Pick a satinwood paint or specialist furniture and cupboard paint or try Little Greene’s intelligent eggshell for a high quality washable low sheen finish. You can also use Frenchic paint, which is hard-wearing, cures within 48 hours and requires no sealant.

Chalk paint is another option but you could probably seal it with a lacquer for better results and long lasting results. Read our guide to painting furniture for more advice

If you’re not confident about tackling the job yourself, there are several companies, such as National Resprays and The Kitchen Facelift Company, which will come and spray-paint your kitchen in a day. Not only will it give a professional finish, but it’s less messy and time-consuming.

Need some inspiration? Check out our makeover section for real life transformations

Top image credit: Getty Images