How exactly would you apply chalk paint to cabinets?

What do the cabinets look like now? If they are wood, unfinished or painted, there's no reason to stain them first. You can apply the chalk paint as is. You will have the seal the paint once you've applied it, however, using wax or polycrylic. (I recommend polycrylic because it's more durable.)

You should be able to use chalk paint over the cabinets just as they are. If they have a very shiny varnish or finish, you may want to sand them lightly to make sure the paint sticks well.

If it's stained wood, I would seal it first or you may get bleed through of the stain. I use Kilz for projects like that. If it has any kind of sealed finish already, minimum would be sanding and then sealing for prep. Some people don't use the extra prep steps for chalk paint, but, it's worth the trouble if you want a nice finish that lasts. Alyssa is right about sealing it.

I washed my cabinets with vinegar and water. Allowed them to air dry, then painted. Chalk paint is awesome. i painted, then after it dried I applied a waterbased polyeurethane . Here is a shot of my kitchen. I used Junk Monkey Chalk Paint, in the shade called Petal Green.

love the color,

linda golden