How to Paint Your Kitchen Cabinets Like a Pro

Revamping your kitchen cabinets with a fresh coat of paint is one the simplest yet most effective ways to elevate your kitchen. Achieving a professional-quality finish, however, requires using the right materials and following the correct process.

So, if you’re wondering how to paint kitchen cabinets, you’re in the right place. 

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide that will help you paint your kitchen cabinets like a professional in no time at all.

• You can paint your kitchen cabinets like a pro with the right paint, tools, and some intermediate skills.
• The estimated total work time is about 3-4 days, costing about $200 to $600.

Ensure that you choose the right paint for your cabinets. Plastic laminate cabinets, for instance, may require special paint. 

For wood, fiberboard, metal, or veneer cabinets, an oil-based hybrid paint or latex paint (alkyd options come highly recommended) are some of the popular choices pros reach for in cabinet painting.

Next, identify the areas you’ll paint and those you’ll leave untouched:

• Cabinet Doors and Drawer Fronts — The most visible parts of your cabinets will benefit most from a fresh coat of paint.
• Cabinet Frames and Sides — The front-facing parts of your cabinets and the exposed sides should match the doors and drawers.

• Cabinet Interiors — Leave the inside surfaces unpainted unless you want a fully painted look.
• Hinges and Hardware — Avoid painting over metal parts, as it can interfere with functionality.

• Ventilation

Ensure proper ventilation when using primers, paints, or solvents. Open windows and use fans if necessary.

• Protective Gear

Wear a mask, safety glasses, and gloves to prevent inhalation of fumes and protect your skin.

• Drop Cloths & Tape

Cover floors and countertops to prevent paint splatters.

• Painter’s tape
• Drop cloths or plastic sheets
• Wood filler (for repairs)
• Degreaser or cleaning solution
• High-quality bonding primer
• Chosen paint (acrylic latex, alkyd, etc.)
• Sandpaper (120-grit and 220-grit)
• Tack cloth

• Screwdriver or drill (for removing cabinet doors and hardware)
• Sanding block or electric sander
• High-density foam rollers or paint sprayer
• Paintbrushes (angled for corners and edges)
• Paint tray and liners

1. Remove Doors, Drawers, and Hardware

Start by removing all cabinet doors, drawers, and hardware (knobs, handles, and screws). Apply the strips of painter’s tape and label each item to ensure easy reassembly. Place hardware in a safe spot.

2. Clean and Prep Surfaces

Clean all cabinet surfaces using a degreaser or mild cleaning solution to remove dirt, grease, and grime. Sand the surfaces lightly with 120-grit sandpaper to rough up the existing finish, then wipe off dust with a tack cloth.

3. Repair and Sand

Fill any nicks or holes with wood filler, allow them to dry, and sand smooth. Use 220-grit sandpaper for a final sanding to create a smooth surface for painting.

4. Prime the Cabinets

Apply a bonding primer to all surfaces using a high-density foam roller or sprayer. Allow the primer to dry fully, then lightly sand with 220-grit sandpaper to remove imperfections.

5. Apply the Paint

Use a high-density foam roller or a paintbrush for an even, smooth finish. Start with thin coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Sand lightly between coats if necessary.

6. Reassemble and Touch Up

Once the paint is dry and fully cured, reattach the doors, drawers, and hardware. Make any necessary touch-ups, and ensure all hinges and hardware are correctly aligned and functional.

7. Clean Up and Inspect

Remove painter’s tape, drop cloths, and protective coverings. Inspect your work for any missed spots or touch-up areas, and enjoy your beautifully refreshed kitchen cabinets!