Paint Inside Kitchen Drawers in 6 Simple Steps - No Experience Needed!
Is the interior of your kitchen drawers looking faded and worn? Painting the inside of drawers is an easy DIY project that can completely transform the look of your kitchen storage. With some simple preparation, the right supplies, and these key steps, you can paint your drawers like a pro - no experience needed!
Painting inside drawers has many benefits beyond just changing their color. A fresh coat of paint protects vulnerable wooden drawers from moisture, daily wear and tear, and stains. Painted drawers also provide a smooth, durable surface that's super easy to clean - perfect for messy kitchen storage. Achieving a flawless painted finish is a satisfying one-day project that even beginners can tackle.
Step 1: Remove Drawers and Prepare Surfaces
Before starting any drawer painting project, your first step is pulling out the drawers and prepping the surfaces. This allows you to paint the interiors easily and avoids messy drips in your kitchen.
Carefully pull each drawer all the way out, supporting it so the hardware doesn't get damaged. If needed, remove any drawer pulls or handles using a screwdriver. Then, take out the drawer slides to fully detach the drawer. Place drawers on a protected work surface outside.
Sanding and Cleaning
Use medium grit sandpaper or sanding sponge to lightly scuff the interior surfaces. This helps the new paint adhere properly. Thoroughly wipe down all surfaces with a degreasing cleaner like TSP. This removes any dirt, oils or residue so paint bonds well. Allow the drawers to fully dry before painting.
Proper preparation is crucial for your paint to adhere smoothly and evenly inside the drawers. Take your time with this step to ensure a successful paint job.
Step 2: Choose the Right Paint
For painting inside kitchen drawers, latex and acrylic paints are good choices. Oil-based paints take much longer to dry and emit stronger fumes. Look for cabinet, furniture or trim paints formulated for high-traffic, hardwearing areas.
In terms of sheen, opt for satin, eggshell or semi-gloss finishes. Glossy paints show scuffs too easily inside drawers. The higher sheen of satin or semi-gloss is still wipeable and subtle, while not as reflective as a gloss.
Make sure to select a top quality paint that offers maximum scratch, moisture and stain resistance. Drawer interiors need a paint that can withstand constant use. Durability and color retention are key.
Key Properties to Consider
When comparing drawer paint options, look for these ideal features:
- Adhesion - Bonds tightly to the surface
- Durability - Hardwearing and scratch-resistant
- Ease of application - Applies smoothly without drips
- Scrubbability - Easy to wipe clean after spills or greasy fingerprints
Choosing the right paint is essential for achieving flawless, long-lasting results painting inside your drawers. Invest in a premium quality product.
Step 3: Prime Drawer Interiors
Priming before painting is highly recommended for a professional finish. The right primer enhances paint adhesion and provides a uniform base color.
Look for small foam rollers or angled sash brushes that make it easy to coat the interior nooks and crannies of drawers. Allow the primer to fully dry as directed before painting - this ensures proper adhesion.
Priming is especially important if you are painting over stains, heavily worn areas, or making a drastic color change. It allows the new paint to cover optimally in two coats.
Benefits of Priming
- Increases paint adhesion
- Blocks stains from bleeding through
- Provides a consistent base color
- Allows topcoat paint to cover better
Investing in a quality primer suited for cabinets or woodwork helps ensure your painted drawers maintain their fresh, flawless look for years to come.
Step 4: Paint!
Now for the fun part - it's finally time to paint! Arm yourself with the right supplies for a smooth, drip-free application.
Use angled sash brushes to neatly "cut in" along edges and corners. Then roll larger interior surfaces with a high quality short nap microfiber roller.
Work methodically, applying the paint in thin, even coats using long parallel strokes. Always maintain a wet edge as you paint. Let each coat dry fully before applying the next - 2-4 hours is ideal.
Painting Technique
Follow these tips for flawless painted drawer interiors:
- Alternate the direction of your strokes with each coat
- Work top to bottom in a systematic manner
- Use roller for large areas, brush for trim and edges
- Apply multiple thin coats vs. one thick coat
Take your time with each coat and don't rush the drying process. Proper paint application prevents unsightly brush marks, drips and uneven coverage.
Step 5: Apply Protective Topcoat
Adding a clear protective topcoat over the painted interior provides extra durability and guards against wear and tear.
Options like polyurethane, acrylic varnish or lacquer add a shield against moisture, grease, scratches and other damage from daily use. They also enhance the depth and richness of the paint color.
Water-based polyurethane offers easy cleanup with a brush. Apply 1-2 coats as directed by the manufacturer and allow proper drying time between coats.
Why Use a Topcoat?
- Protects against scuffs, scratches and dings
- Makes painted surface more stain resistant
- Adds extra durability in high wear areas
- Enhances color with a glossy, vibrant finish
A polyurethane or varnish topcoat puts the finishing touch on your expertly painted drawers, keeping them looking like new for longer.
Step 6: Reinstall Drawers
Once the paint has fully cured, it's time for the moment of truth - putting your drawers back in place to admire your handiwork! Take care not to scratch the fresh paint when handling.
Allow the paint at least 48 hours to harden before reattaching drawer slides and hardware. Slowly slide each drawer closed a few times to ensure it glides smoothly without sticking.
After all your effort, it's incredibly satisfying to see your kitchen drawers transformed with a fresh, professional painted finish. You've saved money doing it yourself, and can enjoy the renewed look of your kitchen storage.
With the right preparation, painting technique, and high quality paint, you can easily paint your kitchen drawers like an expert. The key steps include:
- Thoroughly clean and sand drawer interiors
- Choose durable kitchen paint with an eggshell or satin finish
- Prime drawers before painting for best adhesion
- Apply multiple thin coats using long strokes
- Finish with a protective clear topcoat for added durability
- Reinstall drawers and appreciate your upgraded kitchen!
Painting the inside of kitchen drawers refreshes their look, protects vulnerable wood, and creates smooth, easy-clean surfaces - all without the high cost of new drawers. With a little time and effort, you can paint your dated or damaged drawers for years more of beauty and function.