How to Choose the Best Black Paint Color for Your Kitchen Cabinets

If you're looking to make a dramatic change in your kitchen, painting your cabinets black is a unique way to elevate your space. Black kitchen cabinets can create a sophisticated, contemporary style that feels both modern and timeless.

While white and gray kitchen cabinets remain popular, black is an unexpected color that can add striking flair. It works well in both contemporary and classic kitchen designs, lending an upscale, elegant feel.

Create a Dramatic, Sophisticated Look

Few colors make a statement like black. Black kitchen cabinets offer drama and sophistication, giving your kitchen a luxe, designer look. The deep, dark hue creates an exotic yet stylish vibe.

Black cabinets feel glamorous and elegant, especially when paired with metallic finishes like brass hardware or a sparkling crystal chandelier. The moody drama of black cabinets can transform an ordinary kitchen into an enticing showplace.

Works in Contemporary and Classic Kitchens

While black cabinets pair beautifully with modern elements like stainless steel, they can also create chic contrast in traditional kitchens. Try complementing black cabinets with antique brass hardware and a marble-topped island for a striking blend of new and old.

Black painted cabinets keep a vintage cottage kitchen feeling fresh. Or go for classic black stained wood cabinets for a stately, timeworn style. However you use them, black cabinets infuse kitchens with individuality.

Unique Way to Elevate Your Kitchen's Style

Tired of the expected white and wood cabinetry? Black cabinets provide a unique, fashion-forward option. Much more than a trend, black exudes confident style, giving your kitchen a luxe makeover.

Home chefs looking to elevate their space should consider this dramatic yet versatile neutral. Black cabinets make a strong style statement for discerning homeowners.

Tips for Selecting the Best Black Paint

Choosing just the right black to paint your cabinets can be tricky. Here are some top tips to pick the perfect black for your kitchen:

Consider Undertones - Blue, Green, Warm

Not all blacks are created equal. Some contain subtle undertones of blue, green or red, altering their look. Cool-toned black with blue undertones reads as sleek and modern.

Black with warm, reddish undertones provides a deep, cocooning feel. Greenish-blacks are the most neutral. Decide whether you want your black to feel crisp, cozy or versatile.

Test Black Paint Samples on Cabinet Door

Never decide on a black paint color based on small swatches alone. Lighting conditions can alter an undertone. Purchase sample sizes and paint them directly onto a cabinet door or piece of wood.

Move the sample into different lighting in your kitchen at various times of day. Make sure you love the way the black looks in true kitchen lighting before committing.

Ask for Advice at Paint Store

The experts at paint shops can recommend the best black for your goals. Tell them about your kitchen's style, natural and artificial lighting, and any other colors in the space.

A seasoned paint specialist can point you towards blacks with undertones to achieve your vision, whether cool, warm or neutral.

Consider Surrounding Elements Like Countertops

The other finishes in your kitchen impact how black cabinets look. For a harmonious design, select a black paint that complements elements like the countertops and backsplash.

Paint with warm red undertones pairs better with beige and brown natural stone. Chalky whites and grays need a black with crisp, blue undertones to look cohesive.

Preparing Cabinets for Painting

Achieving an elegant black finish requires diligent prep work. Follow these steps to get your cabinets paint-ready:

Clean Thoroughly with TSP or Degreaser

Remove all dirt, grease and grime from cabinet surfaces using a degreasing agent like TSP. Scrub thoroughly and rinse to eliminate residue. Sand any areas with thick layers of old paint or varnish.

Sand to Rough Up Surface

Use 120-150 grit sandpaper to scuff up cabinet fronts, doors, sides and frames. This helps the paint adhere properly. Focus on sanding any shiny or glossy areas.

Fill Any Holes and Imperfections

Spot-fill screw holes, cracks or chips with wood filler, letting it dry completely. Sand smooth. Use caulk to fill gaps between cabinets and walls or ceilings.

Prime Cabinets First

Primer creates an essential base layer for black paint. Use a high-bonding primer made for painting cabinets and wood. Allow primer to dry completely before painting.

Best Black Paints for Kitchen Cabinets

These top-rated cabinet paints provide beautiful black finishes:

Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black

A rich black with subtle warmth. Its satin finish resists yellowing and fingerprints.

Benjamin Moore Onyx

A nearly-black deep charcoal with green-blue undertone. Its pearl-like finish glows in any lighting.

Rustoleum Matte Black

A budget-friendly flat black that prevents glare. Its soft matte texture camouflages imperfections.

Behr Premium Cabinet Paint in Onyx

A deep black with mild red undertones. Its ultra-smooth finish emulates factory finishes.

Painting Techniques for Black Kitchen Cabinets

Follow these tips for applying black cabinet paint like a pro:

Use Angled Brush for Corners

A high-quality angled sash brush makes painting cabinet corners and edges easy. Its tapered edge gets into tight spots.

Maintain Wet Edge to Prevent Lap Marks

Always overlap sections as you paint, keeping a "wet edge" to avoid lap marks from paint drying at different rates. Work systematically from top to bottom.

Allow Proper Dry Time Between Coats

Give each coat time to dry thoroughly before adding another, usually 24 hours. Rushing leads to tacky paint that smears and sticks.

Sand Lightly Between Coats

Gently sanding knocks down any drips or dust specks between coats. Use extra-fine sandpaper so as not to scratch the paint.

Apply at Least 2-3 Coats for Full Coverage

Black paint is highly pigmented but often transparent. Build up adequate coverage with multiple coats. 3 coats ensures an opaque, seamless black.

Matte, Satin, or Gloss Finish?

Black cabinet paint comes in different finish sheens. Which is best for your kitchen?

Matte is Flat and Velvety

Flat black paint has no shine, reflecting little light. Matte black has a luxurious, velvety look. It also hides scratches and marks well.

Satin Has a Subtle Sheen

Satin black offers a bit of glow without being overly reflective. Its low luster enhances black's richness. Satin is easy to clean.

Gloss Has a Shiny, Reflective Surface

Glossy black cabinets provide drama, bouncing back light for visual depth. High-gloss paint also resists stains and moisture damage on frequently used cabinets.

How Much to Budget for Black Kitchen Cabinets

What's the cost to paint your cabinets black versus buying new ones? Here's what to expect:

Painting Existing Cabinets vs New Cabinets

Painting existing cabinets black costs $2,000 to $4,000 for an average 10x10 kitchen. New pre-finished black cabinets range from $5,000 to $20,000 or more.

Cost of Cabinet Paint

Quality black cabinet paint costs about $50 to $70 per gallon. You may need 2 to 3 gallons for a full kitchen. Add $100 for primer and supplies.

Hiring a Professional Painter

Many homeowners prefer hiring a professional for a flawless black finish. Expect to pay $400 to $800 for painting services.

Balancing Black Cabinets in Your Kitchen

Black can overpower a space if not balanced properly. Try these design strategies:

Contrast with White, Marble, or Wood

Temper the dramatic black cabinets with lighter elements. Try a crisp white quartz countertop, white subway tile backsplash, or pale wood flooring.

Add Lighter Wall Colors and Backsplash

Paint your walls a light neutral like gray or taupe. Choose a backsplash in white marble, glass or metal tile to keep the room feeling bright and open.

Use Black on Lower Cabinets, White Uppers

One popular look is glossy black base cabinets grounded by a white quartz countertop, with white uppers for balance. The dark and light play elegantly against each other.

Hardware that Complements Black Cabinets

Which cabinet hardware finishing pops against black?

Matte Black Hardware Matches Best

For a monochromatic look, choose matte black knobs, pulls or handles. Matching black hardware allows the cabinets to take center stage.

Oil-Rubbed Bronze Also Works Well

The dark aged bronze finish of ORB hardware pairs nicely with black. It warms up the look a bit.

Avoid Brushed Nickel or Chrome

Nickel and chrome look out of sync with black cabinets. Stick to black, bronze or other dark metallics for harmony.

Maintaining Your Black Kitchen Cabinets

Keep your sleek black cabinets looking their best with proper care:

Use Microfiber Cloths for Dusting

Microfiber cloths easily trap dust without scratching the paint. Dust cabinets frequently to prevent buildup.

Avoid Harsh Cleaners or Abrasive Sponges

Chemical cleansers can damage the paint over time. Use mild dish soap and water to spot clean, then wipe gently with a soft cloth.

Keep leftover black paint to easily touch up any chips or scrapes. Touchups maintain your cabinets' beautiful black luster.

Black kitchen cabinets make a gorgeous, dramatic statement. With the perfect black paint and careful balance, you can achieve stylishly moody kitchen you'll adore. What color will you paint YOUR next kitchen?