How to Paint Cabinets

If you’re looking for a way to update your kitchen or bath, consider giving the cabinets a makeover with paint. The process isn’t too difficult and it will give your cabinets a fresh look.

Preparation

The first step is proper cabinet preparation. A quality, long-lasting finish relies on how well the cabinets have been prepped. If you haven’t already, take a look at the how-to video, How to Prep Cabinets for Painting, at Lowes.com/Videos.

01 Gather materials and tools you’ll need, referring to the list on the left. The sawhorses and extra lumber are useful for supporting the cabinet doors for easier painting. If your cabinets have smooth, flat surfaces on the doors and framework, you can apply the paint with a high quality brush, foam roller or mini roller on a roller frame. Make sure you choose a very fine nap roller cover.

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02 Select the paint.

  • Look for a semi-gloss or high-gloss finish. A glossy finish will be easier to clean. High quality latex products are durable and will allow for easy cleanup.

03 Clear the countertops and tape off areas where your cabinets meet walls and floors. Protect surrounding surfaces with drop cloths.

  • If you’re painting indoors, make sure you have proper ventilation.
  • TIP: If space and weather allow, take the cabinet doors into a garage or basement for painting. Just make sure the temperature is between 50° and 90°F.
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Painting Doors and Frame

01 Stir the paint thoroughly with a stir stick.

02 Use the brush or roller to paint the inside panel of the door, starting at the center and working outward.

  • It’s helpful to carefully paint raised or decorative elements first, making sure paint doesn’t puddle in corners or grooves.
  • TIP: When painting, brush over the surface only a few times with a high quality brush or roller. Having brush marks in wet paint is normal, and as the paint dries, these marks will level out. Two thin coats offer a better finish than one thick coat. Allow the paint to dry between coats.
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03 Allow the paint to dry several hours.

04 Turn the door over and paint the other side.

05 Paint the cabinet’s framework with a high quality paint brush, foam roller or a fine nap mini roller.

  • Use as few strokes as possible.
  • For a more finished look, paint the inside of the cabinets first, then the outer framework.

Installing Doors and Hardwarem

01 Wait 24 hours—or as recommended by the paint manufacturer—for all surfaces to dry before continuing.

  • TIP: Painted cabinets will continue to cure and dry over time. To prevent drawers or doors from sticking to the frame, apply bumpers or a small amount of paraffin wax to surfaces that touch.

02 Reattach doors to the cabinet frame.

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  • If desired, first mount new hinges and door knobs or handles on the doors.

03 Reinstall drawers in the frame.

  • If desired, first mount new drawer pulls or knobs on the drawers.

Your kitchen, bathroom or other household cabinets are now refinished. You can find additional decorative projects and ideas for your home at Lowes.com/Videos.

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Related Projects


Prep for Painting Cabinets


Project Details
Skill Level: Intermediate
Materials
  • Paint
  • High Quality Poly Paint Brush
  • Roller Frame
  • Foam Roller
  • Mini Roller w/ Fine Nap Roller Cover
  • 5-in-1 Tool or Putty Knife
  • Stir Sticks
  • Paint Tray
  • Drop Cloths
  • Painter’s Tape
  • Ladder
  • Sawhorses
  • Extra Lumber
  • New Hardware—optional
  • Door Bumpers—optional

IMPORTANT: Before you begin painting cabinets, read the paint manufacturer’s instructions. If you are uncomfortable completing this project, discuss the job with a Lowe's associate or call a professional for help.

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