Asked on Feb 01, 2014
To paint or not to paint kitchen cabinets?
by Moxie
+106
So...paint in hand...I am having last min. jitters...would love your opinion on if I should paint my cabinets or not. Note in the picture, the white piece over the grey cabinet is just a piece of shelving to represent the white solid surface tops I want to get. The cabinet I painted grey was a left over so a sample of sorts. I have picked out fabulous new hardware (nickel) to go on them and want to do the white top, white subway tile and white uppers. All appliances are white. Note sure why after buying the paint I got nervous but I would appreciate your input! These are 10 year old stock builder cabinets in a mid-range house. I don't plan on selling...ekkkk...what to do? Please ignore the clutter - mid project---
87 answers
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I would certainly paint. Will look fantastic with the nickel hardware and white uppers as well as the subway tile. Should look sharp.Don't second guess your decision....just GO FOR IT. You'll be so happy you did.
![Janice Laprise]()
Janice Laprise
on Feb 01, 2014
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Go!go!go! A little paint, a little bling and you will be amazed! The transformation will have you always in the kitchen! Lol.
![Becky]()
Becky
on Feb 01, 2014
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Do it! You will love it:)
![Rachel Medina]()
Rachel Medina
on Feb 01, 2014
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Thanks guys!!!!! I'll post after pics...you are my cheering section! I like bling..and he will be so happy if I'm cookin'..lol
![Moxie]()
Moxie
on Feb 01, 2014
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paint! U will enjoy the new look! Make sure u degrease and prime unless ur using chalk paint! Have fun! Enjoy!
![Sabrina Ward Barnett]()
Sabrina Ward Barnett
on Feb 01, 2014
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Thanks Sabrina...good tips
![Moxie]()
Moxie
on Feb 01, 2014
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All white is too much for me. I would like you to try painting the most focal cabinets a different color,once all the other cabinets are white.It will make it look like a special cabinet or piece of furniture. They are now saying that is the newest trend for kitchens
![Funnygirl]()
Funnygirl
on Feb 01, 2014
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Paint!! It's a back killer but SOOO worth it! Oh and a major money saver. I did my entire kitchen and LOVE IT! Looks wonderful ;)
![Brittani Scott]()
Brittani Scott
on Feb 01, 2014
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just moved into apt where they had painted the cabinets white it really looks good and I am not a white cabinet person but now I am open to any colors to put with them go for it easier and cheaper than new cabinets
![Linda Schiffmeyer]()
Linda Schiffmeyer
on Feb 01, 2014
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I put off painting my cabinets for 10 years, trying to decide what to do. I just couldn't spend so much money on new cabinets when I could "paint them new"! We finally painted them this winter and I LOVE them! It really wasn't the job I dreaded. The dread was so much more than the actual doing! I could have been enjoying them all these years! JUST DO IT!!!
![Linda Logan]()
Linda Logan
on Feb 01, 2014
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I would paint the upper white and the bottom gray. Just make sure you pick the perfect gray.
![Peggy]()
Peggy
on Feb 01, 2014
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When painting cabinets, WHAT do u do about interior of them ?
![Jenfb P]()
Jenfb P
on Feb 02, 2014
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that's a super point Jen...I was wondering about that yesterday..usually nothing...unless left open. Mine are not made be left open..but that doesn't mean I couldn't have some fun on the inside to lol. Thanks everybody!!!
![Moxie]()
Moxie
on Feb 02, 2014
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I always paint the edge of the stiles (cabinet frame) just to have a more finished look. Don't worry about painting the interior box or shelves. You MUST use either an oil or shellac based primer before the finish coat. If you don't, then the smallest scratch/bump/abrasion will peel off your new paint. Prime it first and you should be able to survive a pack of wild toddlers running around the kitchen touching everything.
![BulkHomeBuyers]()
BulkHomeBuyers
on Feb 02, 2014
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I like the idea of stacking them. If you have white cabinets and don't like the brightness you can put a glaze over the top.
![MaryAnn B]()
MaryAnn B
on Feb 02, 2014
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Paint them!!
![Deedee]()
Deedee
on Feb 02, 2014
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Paint! I also like the idea of doing at least one cabinet a different color. I have three tall cabinets 84" tall that I am painting white where the rest are oak..
![Terra Gazelle]()
Terra Gazelle
on Feb 02, 2014
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Absolutely paint them! I stressed over the same issue, but once they were finished I have never regretted having painted them. Paint away, and enjoy!
![Leslie McManamy]()
Leslie McManamy
on Feb 02, 2014
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Paint them using a good quality paint. It is amazing what a good coat of paint can do. I painted the inside of mine and was glad I did.
![Ellen Knox]()
Ellen Knox
on Feb 02, 2014
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I struggled with this same question for almost 10 years. My kitchen was so dark and I finally decided to take the plunge and paint. Why oh why did I wait so long....I love the look! I used a buttermilk white...light but not too white.
![Sharolyn T]()
Sharolyn T
on Feb 02, 2014
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Mine were pickled oak and in good shape. I had them painted white with a brown glaze over top. I also installed wide molding (I have weirdly high ceilings in my house - none of which are the same size) on top of the cabinets. With the glaze, it fits perfectly in with my French Country/eclectic decor. Solid black granite and cobalt blue accents. Love it....go for PAINT!!
![Gloria]()
Gloria
on Feb 02, 2014
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Well I'm seeing painted cabinets everywhere now days. I've had painted ones for 30 years( due to stain malfunction to start with).You have to spend 6 hours cleaning them about every 4 months I would never have painted ones again. All wood color is so much easier to keep. We used Gildden paint and it has held up great did use semigloss too. But painted cabinets show every speck of anything. So if you've got loads of time to clean go for it. I think it is a bad idea and fad right now. If cabinets are real wood and in good shape keep or resurface them( Sears can do )don't paint. Just my opinion and you know what they say about that.I'm old to by the way. So been there done that a time or two.
![Wanda.ll]()
Wanda.ll
on Feb 03, 2014
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Paint the bottom cabinets a darker color and the top cabinets white...great look...
![Jim L]()
Jim L
on Feb 03, 2014
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Painted cabinets are wonderful, but keep in mind that you do have to clean them quite frequently! I had a friend paint hers and she strongly suggested to me not to do it. I was working at the time and just could not wipe down a kitchen every time I cooked. Then when I retried and had time, I did not have the strength or energy to spend on cleaning cabinets.
![Jeanette S]()
Jeanette S
on Feb 03, 2014
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I have a thing about wood....I love it, so I'd refinish the wood if needed & put new, white countertop on it.
![Judy]()
Judy
on Feb 03, 2014
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Paint! Good luck!
![Teresa 'T' Johnson]()
Teresa 'T' Johnson
on Feb 03, 2014
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I painted mine about 10 yrs. ago (not white, but off white to match my décor) & have been happy with them. They nick a little on the edges, but touchups are easy. We didn't paint the inside.
![Gail Baker]()
Gail Baker
on Feb 03, 2014
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Love the color you pick! PAINT THEM! Your kitchen will be uniquely yours.....just use a good paint and multiple coats
![Lisa Bare]()
Lisa Bare
on Feb 03, 2014
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I'd definitely paint them! The color you've chosen is nice and will stand the test of time. It will be a great contrast with the other white materials and appliances. Just make sure to sand and prep the surface before painting, and use a high-quality durable paint that will hold up. Looking forward to seeing the finished results!
![Rather Square]()
Rather Square
on Feb 03, 2014
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Remember to prep first so the paint job will last , and look good longer . Paint with the very best paint you can afford . Some latex enamel may be sticky after painted, so choose a satin gloss or eggshell enamel, not gloss .flat may not clean too well, and has a tendency to stain with any oil that may spatter on them ,Looks like they are in a busy use area. Use an oil base primer not latex as latex takes a longer time to cure . The oil base primer will last longest and takes the Latex and acrylic paint well, for a better smoother finish, and ease of painting. Two coats will last longer with out any scrub out of the finish when you clean. Too much work,? anything worth doing is worth the extra mile , Good luck
![Judy Adams]()
Judy Adams
on Feb 03, 2014
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Love the color you've picked for the cabinets ~ beautiful. You'll love the change it will make in your kitchen. Good luck!
![Eileen Claussen]()
Eileen Claussen
on Feb 03, 2014
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I have black quartz counter tops, installed about 4 years ago (love them) but quite a lot of med. oak cabinets. Top ones are fine but lower ones are scratched and need something done. Would love buttermilk paint but lots of work and upkeep. What should I do?
![Gloria Mason]()
Gloria Mason
on Feb 03, 2014
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Paint!
![Jackie Prim]()
Jackie Prim
on Feb 03, 2014
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We would like to suggest that you consider using one of our PVC backsplashes to remodel your cabinets. We have many designs and colors to choose from. Our backsplashes are flexible and easy to cut and glue. Browse through our gallery. http://www.ceilingtilesbyus.com/galleries/pvc-backsplash-installed
![Ceiling Tiles By Us, Inc.]()
Ceiling Tiles By Us, Inc.
on Feb 03, 2014
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I would repaint. Try chalk paint--less preparation and the wax finish wipes up well.
![Dolores DeLuise]()
Dolores DeLuise
on Feb 03, 2014
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Like you I'm not sure to paint my cabinets. Considering your cabinets are "stock" look at the wood grain on the doors are they pleasing to you? If not, then stain or paint. If not sure of what type of paint, try sampling, get some scrap boards and try different techniques take pictures for referrence. In my case my hubby is a "wood" person and we can not agree.
![Colleen]()
Colleen
on Feb 03, 2014
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It really depends on what you want. Plain wood might be boring. Paint gives you a wide range of effects. If you want something jazzy, the paint will show off your new hardware really well. I like paint myself, but it is really a personal thing. If you love color, go for it. It will make you happy. If you use a good gloss industrial enamel, they should wipe clean easily. I don't quite understand the comments about keeping clean, as I'd think you would like to keep wood just as clean.
![Eileen]()
Eileen
on Feb 03, 2014
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Please make sure you prep them properly to ensure a lasting finish. You want to clean them real well, then use a quality primer, and wait at least 24 hours before applying the paint. The color choice is beautiful. Good luck!
![Debbie Viola]()
Debbie Viola
on Feb 03, 2014
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Thanks for your responses. I am 75 years old and recently retired. I paint and redecorate my home often but this is a big job and I just don't know. I've been planning on doing some chalk paint on a table. Perhaps need to try this to see how it works out first.
![Gloria Mason]()
Gloria Mason
on Feb 04, 2014
- See 1 previous
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We've remodeled many kitchens and bathrooms over time, and hated the cabinetry resurfacing part so much, we usually hired it out. Recently we found, tried and fell in love with the RUSTOLEUM Cabinet Transformation Kit. It's easy, not too messy, has everything you need ... and it's VERY AFFORDABLE. Oh, and yes, it holds up under heavy wear and use! I just posted about it on HOMETALK today.
![Cheryl @ Artzzle]()
Cheryl @ Artzzle
on Feb 04, 2014
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We are looking at redoing a kitchen with lots of cabinets. I think I will have them taken out and will spray paint them instead of brushing. I have done hand brushing before and think this will be much more professional looking. Love painted cabinets, so glad I did the last kitchen!
![Sally]()
Sally
on Feb 04, 2014
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Wow! Thanks everybody - Hometalk is such an amazing community!!! I have two base cabinets painted, so there is no turning back now -- I am going to luv, luv, luv them!!! It will take about a month to get the new white tops but I will re-post when done!
![Moxie]()
Moxie
on Feb 04, 2014
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Yes...keep painting. I know it is all the rage to have painted cabinets right now but there are always wonderful colors to switch to when future trends change. I painted a kitchen in 2001 and couldn't believe how much better I loved my whole house!
![Down to Earth Holly]()
Down to Earth Holly
on Feb 04, 2014
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Paint
![Rhonda]()
Rhonda
on Feb 04, 2014
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The gray is wonderful, go for it. Please post the results.
![Opal]()
Opal
on Feb 07, 2014
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Been there, done that! Paint!! I was so glad I did!! I added a glaze after painting, which added some depth. See my post, I have pics. Make sure you add a protective coating of polyurethane or polyacrylic afterwards. Good luck! It is time consuming, but worth every second (after finishing)!
![Maureen O'Donovan]()
Maureen O'Donovan
on Feb 07, 2014
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i saw a couple "transformations" on stock cabinets using a gel stain that was a rich espresso color- light sanding beforehand- a good wipe down- then stain- a tad of the grain was there- but it was such a warm rich look without paint- I had the exact cabinets as you do and I painted a cream color and when I saw the dark stained ones I was sick- I so wish I had done that instead-
![CAROL]()
CAROL
on Feb 07, 2014
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Ok, I've got to ask this question: What is chalk paint? I just got a painting estimate for $1260.00 for cabinets. 660 for paint protection and the rest for the paint job. Really? I'm ready to paint them myself b/c I cannot believe it's so difficult that these guys have to charge so much. You'd think they were plumbers.
![Juju, the Anti-Gardener]()
Juju, the Anti-Gardener
on Feb 07, 2014
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juju. I think I have talked myself out of painting kitchen cabinets. Need to paint master bath and maybe I'll do cabinets in there. Too lazy right now in cold weather to do anything!
![Gloria Mason]()
Gloria Mason
on Feb 07, 2014
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I painted my kitchen cabinets almost 8 yrs ago and they just now look like they need a touch up.. I took my time to prep properly, clean and sand,, I used oil based paint which is messy, hard to clean but is definitely the reason its lasted so long..I would do it again in a heartbeat,, what a difference
![Marian taylor]()
Marian taylor
on Feb 09, 2014
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Lots of good ideas. Still considering.
![Gloria Mason]()
Gloria Mason
on Feb 10, 2014
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Have you thought of getting a longer white countertop which extends to the corner. Trash can could fit underneath and you'd have a great work surface or could add a stool for eating.
![Virgi S]()
Virgi S
on Feb 10, 2014
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Why is wax better than polyacrylic finish for hard-use areas?? Looks to me like it would be the opposite. Thinking of painting mine w/ chalk or reg. paint.
![Vicki K]()
Vicki K
on Feb 10, 2014
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I did my old oak cabinets in black vintage chalk paint....love them! No regrets.
![𝕭𝖗𝖔𝖈𝖆𝖓𝖙𝖊 𝕰𝖑𝖊𝖌𝖆𝖓𝖈𝖊]()
𝕭𝖗𝖔𝖈𝖆𝖓𝖙𝖊 𝕰𝖑𝖊𝖌𝖆𝖓𝖈𝖊
on Feb 10, 2014
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PAINT
![Sue]()
Sue
on Feb 11, 2014
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Can't you buy a satin finish and not a gloss finish polycrylic? Or maybe even a matte finish. I researched that you have to re-wax hard use areas every few months! (To me that's like bleaching grout on a kitchen tile countertop every few months -NO, I ain't gonna do it, I know myself too well). But I'm sure the wax really looks pretty when freshly done. Good luck! Post a picture, I'm gonna paint mine too and still in the deciding stage on colors. Thanks!! Vicki K
![Vicki K]()
Vicki K
on Feb 13, 2014
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I'm with you Vicki...poly all the way lol
![Moxie]()
Moxie
on Feb 13, 2014
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Love the looks of the paint! Go for it!
![Lisa]()
Lisa
on Feb 13, 2014
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since you are putting on a new deck and a door close by I would paint.. You will have much more traffic in and out of that area w/ the deck.. a bit of a "redo" with counters and paint and a few decor items will give you a great look---inside and out..
![Wanda sinnema]()
Wanda sinnema
on Feb 13, 2014
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I would paint them. The grey looks wonderful!
![Karen D]()
Karen D
on May 30, 2014
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I like the gray, looks smooth.
![Mary strong]()
Mary strong
on May 30, 2014
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Please share what paint you used...the brand and color...I love the look of the grey! If you could email...me kkeene@shaw.ca
![Kathy Keene]()
Kathy Keene
on Jun 05, 2014
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GO FOR IT! As long as you prep, and take your time, you have NOTHING to lose esp. with builder grade kitchen cabinets. I'm sure you will LOVE the final result! Good luck.
![Pepsigirl13]()
Pepsigirl13
on Jun 09, 2014
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I would paint the cabinets white to go with the stove. With white, you have an "unbroken" flow of cabinets and makes the room look bigger. If you do not like white, then the gray/green looks nice. The white would look so crisp.
![Jim L]()
Jim L
on Jun 09, 2014
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Paint
![Terra Gazelle]()
Terra Gazelle
on Jun 10, 2014
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paint!!! definatly paint..
![Penny]()
Penny
on Jun 10, 2014
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I just finished painting the doors and drawer fronts on a cabinet I am using in basement guest suite and I like the look but it does not have the smooth finish I wanted. I sanded, 2 coats of primer and 2 coats of high gloss paint. I used a brush but can see brush marks. Any suggestions for applying another coat with some other applicator?
![Joy Johnson]()
Joy Johnson
on Jun 20, 2014
- See 5 previous
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Love the color! Paint them...
![Robin Daniels]()
Robin Daniels
on Jun 20, 2014
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We moved into a home with very dark cabinets. I loved the house but the kitchen looked so dark and drab. So we painted them olive green and it was like we redid the whole kitchen! Made it open and airy! Amazing change!! Go ahead, paint !!!
![Melodie Hoffman]()
Melodie Hoffman
on Jun 20, 2014
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Love the color / be sure to properly prep the old cabinets first .
![Cindy Butler Dorthy]()
Cindy Butler Dorthy
on Jun 21, 2014
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It may be that chalk paint does not hold up in kitchens. I have read articles, however, wherein people have done their cabinets with chalk paint, but I have not seen long-term results. Wax is placed over the paint, providing a cleanable surface; indeed, I have a (regularly) painted wall about two feet from my stove and it does get splashed, but the two layers of wax I rubbed into it make cleaning it very easy. I think it depends on the individuals whose kitchens are painted--some kitchens get heavier use than others.
![Dolores DeLuise]()
Dolores DeLuise
on Jun 21, 2014
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Joy - Get some Flowtrol (sp?) paint additive for your final coat and look up "how to paint furniture like a pro" or some such, either here or on Pinterest. Use a very high quality paint brush, follow the tips and you'll be very pleased. Good luck!
![Joanie1051]()
Joanie1051
on Jun 21, 2014
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Thanks Joanie. I had forgotten about this product that I used when taking a faux painting class years ago.
![Joy Johnson]()
Joy Johnson
on Jun 22, 2014
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Oh, the paint is wonderful! Go for it! You will love it with the white counter too. Nice choices.
![Diane Arnold]()
Diane Arnold
on Jun 22, 2014
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Amazing, great article http://juggletube.com http://juggletube.com/the-steps-to-painting-kitchen-cabinets/
![Shakirah]()
Shakirah
on Jul 01, 2014
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Several of you asked for completed pics; I am not 100% complete yet, but here are after pics...almost don...just loving them!
![Moxie]()
Moxie
on Jul 06, 2014
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With wood floors, I'd paint same colour as appliances so unbroken flow. I'd do the countertop with it's own 4" backsplash in a faux granite in the grey you like. Lighter grey on walls. Then add pops of colour - fruit bowl, etc. I lay waxed paper on top of the upper cabinets and just peel off when it gets dirty and replace. I always put an artificial plant in a pot on uppers,too, to soften the horizontal lines (can be washed, not water required) and a few interesting items.
![Marion Nesbitt]()
Marion Nesbitt
on Jul 06, 2014
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I love it! you have inspired me to paint mine soon!
![Karen Lynn @Lil' Suburban Homestead]()
Karen Lynn @Lil' Suburban Homestead
on Jul 31, 2014
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PAINT,IT looks better.
![Marlene Wilson]()
Marlene Wilson
on Aug 01, 2014
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I think I'm getting the courage to paint the kitchen cabinets in my summer home! Your's turned out great!
![Annette]()
Annette
on Jan 23, 2015
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PAINT THE CABINETS! THE ONE YOU DID LOOKS GREAT!
![Susan sapp]()
Susan sapp
on Jan 23, 2015
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I also have a large oak kitchen and just bought gray cabinet paint, but have the jitters about painting them! Did you pain the insides? if not can you show a picture if the door open? I really do not want to paint the insides!!!
![Kimberli Hubbell]()
Kimberli Hubbell
on Feb 05, 2016
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Mine were pickled oak. Painted white and added a glaze, crown moldings, new hardware and black granite. Do it!!!!!
![Gloria]()
Gloria
on Feb 08, 2016
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Paint them....your sample cabinet looks so good, love the color.
![Leslie]()
Leslie
on Feb 14, 2016
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Paint. Nice job on the 1st one. Take the plunge
![Cheryl]()
Cheryl
on Mar 13, 2016
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I'm enjoying all this ladies.....painted cabinets. Great job. It's paint and presents a fresh new appearance. It brings everything "together" as one. Just fabulous! Thanks for sharing everything.
![Diana Deiley]()
Diana Deiley
on Apr 01, 2016
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Go for it! :)
![Diana Deiley]()
Diana Deiley
on Sep 09, 2016
Janice Laprise
on Feb 01, 2014
Becky
on Feb 01, 2014
Rachel Medina
on Feb 01, 2014
Moxie
on Feb 01, 2014
Sabrina Ward Barnett
on Feb 01, 2014
Funnygirl
on Feb 01, 2014
Brittani Scott
on Feb 01, 2014
Linda Schiffmeyer
on Feb 01, 2014
Linda Logan
on Feb 01, 2014
Peggy
on Feb 01, 2014
Jenfb P
on Feb 02, 2014
BulkHomeBuyers
on Feb 02, 2014
MaryAnn B
on Feb 02, 2014
Deedee
on Feb 02, 2014
Terra Gazelle
on Feb 02, 2014
Leslie McManamy
on Feb 02, 2014
Ellen Knox
on Feb 02, 2014
Sharolyn T
on Feb 02, 2014
Gloria
on Feb 02, 2014
Wanda.ll
on Feb 03, 2014
Jim L
on Feb 03, 2014
Jeanette S
on Feb 03, 2014
Judy
on Feb 03, 2014
Teresa 'T' Johnson
on Feb 03, 2014
Gail Baker
on Feb 03, 2014
Eileen Claussen
on Feb 03, 2014
Gloria Mason
on Feb 03, 2014
Jackie Prim
on Feb 03, 2014
Ceiling Tiles By Us, Inc.
on Feb 03, 2014
Dolores DeLuise
on Feb 03, 2014
Colleen
on Feb 03, 2014
Eileen
on Feb 03, 2014
Debbie Viola
on Feb 03, 2014
Cheryl @ Artzzle
on Feb 04, 2014
Sally
on Feb 04, 2014
Down to Earth Holly
on Feb 04, 2014
Rhonda
on Feb 04, 2014
Opal
on Feb 07, 2014
Maureen O'Donovan
on Feb 07, 2014
CAROL
on Feb 07, 2014
Juju, the Anti-Gardener
on Feb 07, 2014
Marian taylor
on Feb 09, 2014
Virgi S
on Feb 10, 2014
Vicki K
on Feb 10, 2014
𝕭𝖗𝖔𝖈𝖆𝖓𝖙𝖊 𝕰𝖑𝖊𝖌𝖆𝖓𝖈𝖊
on Feb 10, 2014
Sue
on Feb 11, 2014
Lisa
on Feb 13, 2014
Wanda sinnema
on Feb 13, 2014
Karen D
on May 30, 2014
Mary strong
on May 30, 2014
Kathy Keene
on Jun 05, 2014
Pepsigirl13
on Jun 09, 2014
Penny
on Jun 10, 2014
Joy Johnson
on Jun 20, 2014
Robin Daniels
on Jun 20, 2014
Melodie Hoffman
on Jun 20, 2014
Cindy Butler Dorthy
on Jun 21, 2014
Joanie1051
on Jun 21, 2014
Diane Arnold
on Jun 22, 2014
Shakirah
on Jul 01, 2014
Marion Nesbitt
on Jul 06, 2014
Karen Lynn @Lil' Suburban Homestead
on Jul 31, 2014
Marlene Wilson
on Aug 01, 2014
Annette
on Jan 23, 2015
Susan sapp
on Jan 23, 2015
Kimberli Hubbell
on Feb 05, 2016
Leslie
on Feb 14, 2016
Cheryl
on Mar 13, 2016
Diana Deiley
on Apr 01, 2016
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