Give Your Kitchen Cabinets a Makeover with Chalk Paint
If your kitchen cabinets are looking tired and dated, a fresh coat of paint can make a world of difference without the expense of a full remodel. Chalk paint has become a popular budget-friendly option for refinishing wood cabinets thanks to its excellent coverage and ability to adhere to surfaces without priming or sanding. With a little elbow grease and the right techniques, you can use chalk paint to give your kitchen a mini makeover.
Let's dig in!
Gather Your Painting Supplies
Chalk paint brands like Annie Sloan and Rustoleum are known for their quality and ease of application. Opt for a classic matte finish or try satin for a subtle sheen. Estimate around one quart per standard cabinet door, buying more if doing the cabinet boxes as well. You'll also need angled paintbrushes for cutting in edges and a small foam roller for quick coverage over flat surfaces. Round up drop cloths, sandpaper, paint trays, and cleaning solutions like TSP substitute to prep.
Chalk Paint
Popular brands include Annie Sloan and Rustoleum in a range of trendy colors from antique white to navy blue. A matte or satin sheen is best for a smooth, opaque finish.
Paint Supplies
Angled sash brushes, foam rollers, paint trays, and drop cloths are essential supplies. Stock up on high-quality blue painter's tape as well.
Prep Supplies
A TSP substitute cleaner, sandpaper, and clean cloths will get your cabinets ready for paint. Protect floors too.
Finishing Supplies
Protect your painted cabinets with a clear wax or polyurethane. Cheesecloth helps apply wax smoothly.
Prep Your Cabinets for Painting
Proper prep ensures your paint job lasts. Start by removing all doors and hardware like hinges and knobs so you can fully access the frames and insides. Give cabinet surfaces a thorough cleaning using a deglosser like TSP substitute to remove any greasy residue. Then lightly sand to smooth any rough areas and help the chalk paint grip. Finally, wipe away all dust with a tack cloth before opening those paint cans!
Remove Doors and Hardware
Taking off cabinet doors and hardware may be the most tedious part of the process, but it makes painting the boxes and doors much quicker. Number pieces to keep organized.
Clean Surfaces
Grease and dirt prevent proper paint adhesion. Use a degreasing cleaner like a TSP substitute to thoroughly clean cabinets prior to lightly sanding.
Lightly Sand
Gentle sanding opens the wood grain for better adhesion without removing stain. Focus on rough areas and edges.
Wipe Away Dust
Specks in paint are inevitable without removing dust first. Tack cloths grab dust sanding leaves behind.
Painting Techniques for Cabinets
Now for the fun part! Choose a classic antique white or opt for a trendy navy for a striking look. Use angled brushes to "cut in" edges and a small foam roller to quickly cover large flat areas like doors and sides. Allow thorough drying between multiple thin coats to prevent drips. Add character with distressing techniques once fully dry.
Choose Paint Color
Neutral antique white and gray shades don't go out of style and allow your cabinets to blend in. Make a bold statement with navy, green, or black cabinets.
Apply Base Coats
Use an angled sash brush to carefully "cut in" edges and a small foam roller to quickly cover the flat cabinet door and side surfaces. Allow paint to dry fully between coats.
Distressing Techniques
Add vintage charm by lightly sanding edges and wiping paint away in key spots post-drying. Or use a crackle medium over paint.
Final Coats
Apply at least 2-3 final coats for opaque coverage, lightly sanding between each coat. Spot touch-ups may be needed after distressing as well.
Protecting and Finishing Cabinets
Give your painted cabinets extra protection and sheen with a top coat of wax or polyurethane. Allow pieces to fully cure for several days before reinstalling doors and hardware. Step back and admire your handiwork - your kitchen now looks fresh and updated!
Wax
Clear or tinted wax enhances paint's matte finish with a subtle sheen. Apply with cheesecloth using thin, even coats.
Polyurethane
Water-based polyurethane seals in paint to resist moisture, grease, and scratches. Allow proper drying time between coats.
Reattach Doors and Hardware
Once fully dry, screw cabinet doors back on along with handles and knobs. Check alignments and make any hinge adjustments.
A few coats of chalk paint can give outdated oak or laminate cabinets an affordable makeover. The matte finish hides flaws beautifully while the soft patina adds rustic cottage charm. Neutral painted cabinets refresh the space without overwhelming it, letting your counters, floors, and backsplash shine.
Beyond white and gray palettes, don't be afraid to make a splash with navy, green, yellow, or even black cabinets. Contrast brightly painted boxes with natural wood doors for an eclectic look. Painting cabinets is a weekend project that can transform the entire feel of your kitchen. Grab some paint and get started!