How do I properly paint plastic veneer?
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I am looking to paint thermafoil cabinets with wood grain. Kitchen and baths. Theyre hideous and I am not a fan of wood grains. I am wondering if anyone knows how to properly paint this material fill in the “wood grain”obviusly all material has had to stick to these types of cabinets. I also will need to do the same to the thermafoil kitchen island and fridge surround. Help! I know it’s a lot of work but I want it done and I have the time to do it. Photo of my bathroom with the cabinets is attached. These cabinets are throughout my home.
https://www.homepainterstoronto.com/blog/2014/06/19/painting-thermofoil-cabinet-doors/
https://lifeonvirginiastreet.com/2017/07/how-to-paint-thermofoil-cabinets/
Make sure they are clean and prime with Oil based primer and paint with oil based paint. It really holds to thermofoil and is least likely to bubble the foil then latex.
You can prime it with a bonding primer like this one, (click to go to shopping link). I swear by this primer! It's amazing. Then paint with 2 coats of good quality latex paint.
If you are determined to get rid of the wood pattern, I would try using taping compound with taping knives to smooth the finish. Make certain you put enough pressure so that the compound gets into all of the grooves. I am not certain whether you have to prime before you apply but, drywall mud does have a certain amount of substance in it that will make it adhere. I have no idea if it will adhere to your cabinets. Don’t forget, you will also have to sand it smooth if this is what you choose to do.
Paint will not cover the wood look on its own in most cases. One way or the other you do have to paint over the compound. Hope this at least gives you an idea of where to start.
By the way, if this works, you will also be able to use all latex or water based paints and primers.
Can you actually feel the wood grain or are the cabinets smooth with just a wood grain look? If they are smooth, oil based primer will make the look of the wood grain go away. If the wood grain is raised, then you will have to use something to smooth them out. I would recommend Bondo. It is used for repairing cars and gives a beautiful smooth finish when sanded. I have used this to repair laminate countertops. Follow the directions and apply as smooth as possible then sand and repeat until you have a perfectly smooth finish.