I would like to know what type of paint is best for kitchen cabinetry?

Question

I would like to update our kitchen but keep costs down by painting the kitchen cupboards which are still in good shape but the previous owner has done me the disfavor of painting them 'uncomplimentary' colours. What type of paint as well as brushes and/or rollers are best?

RH · Answer

Foam rollers are best for smooth surfaces like your cabinets, so nap or brush marks aren't visible. There are actual 'cabinet' paints by many paint companies available. 'This Old House' did a how-to blog, and it can be found here: http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/how-to/intro/0,,20209705,00.html Some paint options: Ace Hardware Cabinet, Door & Trim - http://www.acehardware.com/product/index.jsp?productId=12664179 Home Depot search of Cabinet & Countertop Paint - http://www.homedepot.com/b/Paint-Cabinet-Countertop-Paint/N-5yc1vZc61s Rust-Oleum makes a Cabinet (and Countertop) Transformations line specifically for this project - https://www.rustoleum.com/product-catalog/consumer-brands/transformations The BIGGEST thing to remember is SPEND THE TIME PREPPING THE SURFACES!! Lots of scrubbing, degreasing, sanding, and making sure each cabinet door (and hardware piece) is removed and MARKED so they go back together when you're done!! Make a 'map' and number the cabinets then lay them out in order and/or use post-its or the like to label EACH piece so it goes back in its original spot. Good luck! Can't wait to see the 'after' pictures!!

RH · Answer

P.S. no offense to the previous homeowners, but that peach/orange color against the pink walls is horrible! I don't blame you one BIT for wanting to change it!!

Joann Locascio · Answer

@natasha I don't know which look you're going for, matte? Glossy? I used MMS Milk Paint. It was easy to paint on with a brush. It was very forgiving and it's a matte finish that I sealed with hemp oil. They wipe down easily, too. You can see it here http://www.hometalk.com/diy/kitchen-dining/kitchen-dining-furniture/my-kitchen-transformation-7522316 If I can answer any questions you may have, please don't hesitate to ask.

Mjk370084 · Answer

Annie Sloan chalk paint and wax

Sherry Fram · Answer

We used paint that is geared for use in kitchen and bathrooms and foam rollers. Worked like a charm. That was probably close to 15 years ago so there is probably better stuff now! lol

Rose · Answer

We used a paint called CabinetCoat. It is self leveling. Great paint!

Linda · Answer

I just finished painting my kitchen cabinets and LOVE the results. It was very hard work, but I prepped the oak doors and drawer fronts by cleaning off grease, priming with Kilz, two coats of Pro Choice Semi-Gloss Latex from Sherwin Williams (alkyd). It was pricey, but well worth it! I used Floetrol to assist with application and smooth finish that showed the woodgrain ever-so-nicely. Even the laminated parts of the cabinet frame, including one inside shelf that I chose to paint, this method worked great. I didn't sand the laminate very much and used Deglosser before priming. I discovered that using the best materials and best tools gave me the professional look I wanted. It took me eight weeks to complete and didn't disrupt my use of the kitchen. My husband has allergies, so I sanded when he was away, or for the removed drawer fronts and doors, I sanded outside on my patio. I'm sure that I saved $$$$ by DIY instead of hiring.

Jenny Berg · Answer

I say oil paint, they are harder to clean but oil paints also dry harder than latex, they provide a durable finish for trim, molding, and cabinets. Try the ones from Benjamin Moor or Behr. I hope this helps!

Elowin · Answer

Sherwin Williams has Pro-Classic, an Acrylic - Alkyd. Acts like an oil but cleans up like an acrylic with water. Best of both worlds. I've done several pieces of furniture with it and love the results.

Johnavallance82 · Answer

Use Satin finish or Semi Gloss.

I would like to know what type of paint is best for kitchen cabinetry?

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