The Complete Guide to Repainting Kitchen Cabinets on a Budget

Is your kitchen looking tired and dated? Drab cabinets can make the whole room seem dull and dark. The good news is you don't have to replace them to get a fresh new look! Repainting kitchen cabinets can transform the space for just a fraction of the cost of new cabinetry. This complete guide covers everything you need to know to repaint your cabinets on a budget and end up with a gorgeous kitchen makeover.

Preparing Your Cabinets for a Fresh Coat of Paint

Before breaking out the paint, some prep work is key to getting a smooth, professional finish. Proper preparation ensures the paint adheres properly so your new cabinets will last.

Cleaning

Grease, dirt, and grime prevent paint from bonding well. Give cabinets a thorough cleaning inside and out with a degreaser or TSP substitute. For especially dirty cabinets, you may need to use a mild scrub brush or abrasive sponge. Fill any holes or gouges with wood filler according to package directions. Sand rough areas smooth. Finish by dusting off all surfaces and wiping down with a tack cloth.

Removing Doors, Drawers, and Hardware

Paint adheres much better to flat surfaces, so remove all doors, drawers, and hardware. Place hardware like knobs and hinges in labeled bags for easy reinstallation later. Use painter’s tape to mark hinge and hardware placement on cabinets and doors if needed. Number doors and drawers to match cabinet openings.

Sanding

Lightly sanding cabinets smooths the surface for painting. Use 220-grit sandpaper and sand all surfaces in the direction of the wood grain. Tack cloth cabinets again to remove any leftover dust before priming.

Priming

Primer provides an essential foundation for the paint and helps it adhere to the cabinets. On bare wood, use an oil-based primer like Zinsser Cover Stain or Kilz Premium. For previously painted or laminate cabinets, water-based primers work well. Apply primer according to manufacturer directions, then let it dry fully overnight before painting.

Choosing Paint and Supplies

Paint Types and Finishes

High-quality cabinet paints provide the most durable and long-lasting finish. Look for cabinet paints formulated especially for kitchens, like Sherwin-Williams ProClassic Acrylic Alkyd Enamel or Benjamin Moore Advance. Oil and acrylic/alkyd hybrid formulas are more durable than standard latex. For cabinets, opt for a semi-gloss or satin sheen. The subtle shine is easy to clean and holds up well in kitchens.

Brushes, Rollers, and Trays

Invest in a good angled sash brush for cutting-in edges and painting cabinet frames. A high-density microfiber roller cover applies paint smoothly without leaving lint or bubbles behind. Disposable paint trays keep messes minimized. Pick up a small trim roller and paintbrush for doors and drawers.

Calculating Paint Quantity

Measure the total surface area of your cabinets to determine how much paint is needed. Allow for 2-3 coats of coverage, more for dark colors. Having leftover paint is better than running out halfway!

Painting Cabinet Doors

Prepping and Priming

Give doors a light sanding to degloss and fill any dents if needed. Clean thoroughly then apply primer just like on the cabinet boxes. For efficiency, lay doors on sawhorses and spray primer and paint. Let primer dry fully before the topcoat.

Applying Paint

Spraying doors as they lay flat results in a smooth professional finish. Use angled strokes and spray back and forth horizontally first, then vertically. If brushing, use a high-quality trim brush and maintain a wet edge while painting. Roll lightly to smooth out brush marks if desired.

Hanging and Adjustments

Reinstall doors and drawers once the paint has fully cured. Use painter’s tape around hinges to prevent paint damage. The paint may cause doors and drawers to stick at first, so you may need to sand or plane edges for proper clearance.

Painting Cabinet Boxes and Frames

Prep and Taping

As with doors, sand boxes, then clean thoroughly and apply primer. Protect flooring, countertops, and walls by masking off any adjacent surfaces with painter’s tape and drop cloths. Use tape on the inside corners of cabinet frames as well for a crisp paint line.

Paint Application

Use an angled sash brush to carefully “cut-in” along edges and corners with a steady hand. Then use the roller to apply paint in sections, maintaining a wet edge. Work methodically to avoid lap marks and drips. Apply two coats for full coverage, letting the first coat dry 4-6 hours before adding the second.

Dry Time

Allow painted cabinets a full 7 days drying time to cure fully. The paint continues to harden over the first week. Second coats can be applied after 4-6 hours of drying time.

Finishing Touches for Your Fresh Cabinets

Reinstall Hardware

Once the paint has cured completely, put back all the hardware pieces using your labels. Attach doors and drawers and test for proper alignment. Adjust if needed by lightly sanding or planing until each operates smoothly.

Clean Up

Remove all painter’s tape and drop cloths. Wipe up any last drips or spills. Thoroughly wash paint brushes, rollers, and other tools in warm soapy water. Discard disposable supplies and plastic drop cloths.

Once the dust has settled, take in your amazing kitchen transformation! The fresh coat of paint should make the space feel light, bright, and modern. Add new cabinet hardware if desired. Decorate with kitchen accessories like rugs, curtains, and ceramic pieces that complement your new cabinet color. Updating cabinets is an affordable way to freshen up the heart of your home.

With some diligent prep, high-quality paint, and the right tools, you can tackle repainting kitchen cabinets as a DIY project and save thousands of dollars. Follow this guide for a smooth makeover resulting in cabinets that look like you hired a professional. The dramatic yet budget-friendly change will have you enjoying your kitchen again!