How can I paint over Formica kitchen cabinets?

Michaelangelo
by Michaelangelo

So old and dated...and on a budget.

  4 answers
  • Or Misgav Or Misgav on Jan 23, 2019

    Maybe you can glue a wallpaper on top of it?

    Or with a sponge paint with acrylic colors?


    either way, sand it before and wash it completely, so the paint will not fall off in time

  • FrugalFamilyTimes.com FrugalFamilyTimes.com on Jan 23, 2019

    We've had a lot of success lately with Fushion mineral paint. I second the idea of a light sanding first to deglaze the surface and give the paint something to bite on. Once mineral paint cures, it is pretty tough and durable.

  • Natalie Natalie on Jan 23, 2019

    On formica, you really need to use a bonding primer. Formica is known to resist paint, so only scuff sanding won't cut it.

    Make sure to scrub the cabinets of grease, oil and build up with dawn dish soap or something that will cut through all that grease. Then and scuff sand before you prime.


    Then I would use an enamel product like Sherwin Williams Trim and Door Paint. It is super tough and will withstand the constant use of kitchen cabinets. And it doesn't need top coated.


    General Finishes has a paint called enduro pigmented poly that is super tough as well, but its supposed to only be sprayed on.


    You could use chalk paint, but you'll need to top coat it (I wouldn't use wax topcoat in a kitchen) with water based poly. I prefer Varathane brand.


    Whatever you do, just remember that the prep work before painting is the most important.


  • Jenni Ingram Jenni Ingram on Jan 23, 2019

    I'd recommend using this method: https://rootsandwingsfurniture.com/blog/kitchencabinetmakeover/


    The primer I used will stick to anything!