You may think painting kitchen cabinets is as easy as watching a YouTube tutorial video. However, this is one home improvement project that can cost you a lot of precious time and remodeling dollars if not done correctly. 

So before you take on your next DIY cabinet painting project, check out these tips that can help make the process go smoothly. 

1 – Use an existing color scheme for inspiration. 

The color scheme is arguably the most important part of painting your cabinets. Don’t waste time getting hung up on finding something totally original. Instead, find a color palette you love on Pinterest, Instagram or in your favorite design magazine. This will not only save you time, but help ensure you end up with a final product you love.

2 – Don’t cut corners on primer, paint, and topcoat. 

Many painters use wall primers and latex paint intended for walls, not cabinets. Don’t make this mistake! These mixtures have a tendency to wear down quickly on cabinet surfaces. Choose an acrylic, enamel, or alkyd paint instead that’s made to last on cabinets.

3 – Organize hardware, doors, and drawers as you remove them. 

Disassembling is a time consuming part of the cabinet painting process. When you remove doors, drawer fronts, and hardware, use a simple numbering system and keep matching pieces together. This will make the process much easier when it comes to reinstalling your cabinets. 

4 – Thoroughly clean cabinets before painting. 

Take the time to remove grease and grime from your cabinet surfaces before busting out the paint brushes and rollers. While this job may seem tedious up front, you’ll be glad you did when you see how much better the paint sticks to your cabinet surfaces. 

5 – Tint the primer if painting cabinets a dark color. 

Dark colors often require several coats to reach the desired richness and coverage. By using a dark primer or tinting it a darker shade, you can make the process go much faster. Just try adding a small amount of color to your primer at a time until you reach the right shade. 

6 – Create a designated painting/drying station. 

Find a spot outdoors if possible, or at least choose an area with adequate ventilation. Make sure you have a sturdy surface with plenty of room to prep and paint your cabinets.

7 – Have a temporary kitchen area in place. 

Since your kitchen will be out of commission during the painting process, set up an area with basic kitchen tools like a microwave, toaster, cooler, and small fridge. You may also consider buying paper dishes and plastic utensils to make clean up easier, too. 

Cabinet Painters In Newark, Delaware 

Looking for an even more convenient way to transform your kitchen cabinets? Trust the N-Hance cabinet painters in Newark, Delaware

We offer hundreds of custom cabinet colors and revolutionary painting methods to ensure you’ll love the look of your remodeled kitchen—and how well our services fit into your budget. 

Schedule a FREE estimate today to get started on your cabinet painting project!

N-Hance did a wonderful job painting my kitchen cabinets. They look brand new. The finish from the sprayer is excellent. And I didn’t have to empty out the cabinets!

Dot E.

The salesman was very helpful helping me pick a color. The workers were very neat and respectful with my home. The job was done quickly and a year later, my kitchen still looks great!

Joyce K.