Is it possible to paint veneer kitchen cabinets?

Gca29856611
by Gca29856611

My kitchen cabinets are handmade with doors made of dark veneer. They are in severe need of brightening up and updating. I do not want to replace them as they are older, much larger than new ones, and are very well made. Not realizing they were veneer, I attempted to sand them down only to find the veneer. I want to paint them but am concerned that won't be possible. Appreciate any helpful advice.

  4 answers
    • KC KC on Mar 22, 2019

      Yes, use fine sandpaper all over, wipe down with damp cloth and use chalk paint (no need for primer)

  • I’d recommend a good primer, like Slick Stick from Dixie Belle.

  • Liz, HomeTalker Liz, HomeTalker on Mar 22, 2019

    You do not need to prime. I painted both our kitchen cupboards and a 70 year old veneer vanity with zero priming and zero sanding and both have stood the test of time. The trick is to use acrylic paint. Valspar carries a version, which is what I used. Hobby lobby also carries tiny jars is acrylic paint, but that would get costly. The point is that acrylic paint is not difficult to find. Just wipe everything down with a clean cloth, and paint. My kitchen cupboards did need three coats, however, my veneer vanity only needed two. Here are some pictures of the vanity; you can see my kitchen cupboard redo on my Hometalk page.

  • Recreated Designs Recreated Designs on Mar 26, 2019

    Hi. You can definitely paint veneer. Assuming it is wood, you just need to use a good primer and a latex paint or use a paint like Annie Sloan Chalk paint that sticks to most every surface and you wouldn't need a primer with it. Whichever method, start with a light sanding before your first coat of paint, it will help both adhere completely. Have fun!