How to Paint Kitchen Cabinets: A Step-by-Step Guide

Want to make your kitchen look brand-new without spending a lot of money? Painting your kitchen cabinets is the perfect way to give your space a fresh, colorful vibe! It’s like dressing up your kitchen in a new outfit. Whether your cabinets are old, scratched, or just not your style, a few coats of paint can make them look amazing. This project is great for beginners, and I’ll explain every step in a super easy way. Plus, I’ve packed in all the extra tips, tricks, and details you need to get it right. From picking colors to fixing mistakes.

Why Paint Your Kitchen Cabinets?

Painting cabinets is a smart DIY project. It’s much cheaper than buying new cabinets or paying a professional. You can choose any color you love, like crisp white, calming green, or even bright red. It hides scratches, stains and outdated wood finishes. It’s also a fun way to make your kitchen feel personal. You can do it in a weekend or two, and the results will wow everyone! Here’s how to do it step-by-step, with all the extra info to make your project a success.

How Much Will It Cost?

Painting your kitchen cabinets is a budget-friendly way to refresh your space. For an average kitchen with about 20 cabinet doors and frames, you can expect to spend between $100 and $300.

Here’s a breakdown of the costs:

Paint will cost $30 to $80 per gallon, and you’ll likely need 1 to 2 gallons. Higher-quality cabinet paint costs more but lasts longer.

Primer typically costs $20 to $50 for a gallon, and one gallon is usually enough.

Sandpaper, brushes, and rollers will set you back about $10 to $30.

You’ll also need a cleaner like TSP, painter’s tape, and drop cloths, which together cost around $10 to $20.

If you want to add new knobs or handles, they range from $1 to $10 each, so budget $20 to $100 for 20 pieces.

To save money, look for paint sales, reuse old brushes, or skip new hardware if your budget is tight.

Materials You’ll Need

Gather these supplies before you start. You can find them at hardware stores like Lowe’s, Home Depot, or online.

• Paint: Pick a durable paint made for cabinets, like latex or oil-based enamel. Satin or semi-gloss finishes are best for kitchens because they’re easy to wipe clean. Recommended brands: Benjamin Moore Advance, Sherwin-Williams Emerald Urethane, or Behr Urethane Alkyd Satin Enamel. Get 1–2 gallons.
• Primer: Use a stain-blocking primer like Zinsser BIN (for wood or stains) or Kilz Multi-Surface (for laminate/metal). 1 gallon is enough.
• Sandpaper: Medium (120-grit) for rough sanding, fine (220-grit) for smoothing.
• Screwdriver: To remove doors and hardware.
• Cleaner: TSP (trisodium phosphate) or a strong degreaser to remove kitchen grease.
• Painter’s tape: To protect walls, counters, and appliances.
• Drop cloths: To cover floors and surfaces.
• Paintbrushes: A 2-inch angled brush for edges and details.
• Small foam roller: For smooth, streak-free coats on flat surfaces.
• Tack cloth: To wipe away sanding dust.
• Gloves, mask, safety glasses: To protect from fumes, dust, and splashes.
• Stir sticks, paint tray, can opener: For mixing and holding paint.
• Optional: Paint sprayer (for pros or big jobs), new knobs/handles, painter’s pyramids (to elevate doors while drying).

Eco Tip: Choose low-VOC or zero-VOC paints (like Benjamin Moore Natura) to reduce harmful fumes and be kinder to the environment.

Step 1: Plan and Prepare

Good planning helps you paint easily and get a professional look. Start by picking a color that fits your kitchen’s style. White or off-white brightens small kitchens and looks clean and classic. Sage green is soft and calming, perfect for modern or farmhouse kitchens. Navy blue is bold and fancy, especially with gold handles. Warm gray is cozy and works with any decor. Test a sample on a cabinet door to check how it looks in your kitchen’s light.

Next, check what your cabinets are made of. Are they wood, laminate, or metal? Wood is the easiest to paint. Laminate and metal need special primers, like Kilz, to help paint stick. If your cabinets are very shiny, sand them more or use a deglosser to make the surface rough.

Clear out your kitchen to make space. Take all dishes, pots, and food out of the cabinets. Put them in boxes or another room. Move small appliances, like toasters, off the counters.

Set up a workspace for painting the cabinet doors. A garage, basement, or spare room works best to avoid dust. Make sure it’s clean, flat, and has good air. In the kitchen, cover floors and counters with drop cloths to keep them clean.

Plan your time carefully. Paint the frames, which are the fixed parts, first. Then paint the doors and drawers. Work in small sections to stay organized. Prep will take about 4 to 6 hours. The whole project takes 2 to 4 days, depending on your kitchen’s size. takes 4–6 hours. The whole project takes 2–4 days, depending on your kitchen size.

Step 2: Remove Doors and Hardware

Taking your cabinets apart helps you paint them evenly. Start by unscrewing the cabinet doors. Use a screwdriver to take them off. Label each door with painter’s tape, like “Top Right 2,” so you know where to put them back later.

Next, remove the hardware. Take off knobs, handles, and hinges from the doors and frames. Put them in plastic bags and label the bags to stay organized.

Move the doors to your workspace, like a garage or basement. This keeps them safe while you paint. Clear the kitchen so it’s ready for painting the frames.

If you’re new to this, take a photo of your kitchen before you start. It will help you remember where each door goes. If hinges are hard to remove, look online for a quick video guide to make it easier..

Step 3: Clean and Degrease

Kitchens get greasy from cooking, so cleaning is very important. Start by mixing a cleaner. Follow the instructions for TSP or use a degreaser like Krud Kutter. Wear gloves to keep your hands safe from the strong cleaner.

Next, scrub all surfaces with a sponge. Wipe down the cabinet frames, doors, and drawers. Pay extra attention to handles, corners, and areas near the stove where grease collects the most.

After scrubbing, rinse off the cleaner. Use clean water to wipe all surfaces. Then dry them with a cloth. Let everything air-dry for 1 to 2 hours to make sure no water is left.

Cleaning is key because grease stops paint from sticking well. If you skip this step, your paint might peel off. Take your time to clean thoroughly, and your paint will last a long time.

Step 4: Sand the Surfaces

Sanding makes your cabinet surfaces smooth and helps the paint stick well. Begin with medium sandpaper, which is 120-grit. Sand the frames, doors, and drawers to remove old gloss or rough spots. If your cabinets are laminate, sand gently to avoid scratching or damaging the surface.

After that, switch to fine sandpaper, which is 220-grit. Go over all the surfaces again to make them super smooth. This step gives your cabinets a nice, even feel before painting.

Once you’re done sanding, clean off all the dust. Use a tack cloth or a damp rag to wipe every surface. Dust can mess up your paint job, so take your time to clean carefully.

For safety, wear a mask and glasses while sanding. This protects you from breathing in dust or getting it in your eyes. Open windows or use a fan to keep the air clear.

Step 5: Apply Primer

Primer is like a base coat that helps paint stick better and covers old colors or stains. Start by stirring the primer well. Mix it thoroughly and pour it into a paint tray to make it easy to use.

Next, use a 2-inch angled brush to paint the edges. Brush carefully on corners, grooves, and any detailed areas of the frames, doors, and drawers. This keeps those tricky spots neat.

For flat surfaces, switch to a foam roller. Roll the primer onto doors and large areas, moving in one direction to get a smooth, clean look. A roller makes the job faster and even.

Let the primer dry for 4 to 6 hours, but check the can for exact times. If the surface feels rough after drying, sand it lightly with 220-grit sandpaper and wipe it clean with a tack cloth to remove dust.

If you can still see wood grain, stains, or dark colors, add a second coat of primer. Apply it the same way and let it dry completely. This ensures a solid base for your paint.

Here’s a helpful tip: raise doors off the ground while drying by setting them on painter’s pyramids or small cups. This stops them from sticking to your workspace. If your cabinets are laminate or metal, use a bonding primer for better grip.

Step 6: Paint the Cabinets

Now it’s time to add your beautiful color to the cabinets. Start by stirring the paint well. Mix it thoroughly and pour it into a clean paint tray to make it ready for use.

Begin with the cabinet frames in the kitchen. These are the fixed parts that stay in place. Use a brush to paint edges and corners carefully, then use a foam roller for flat areas. Work from top to bottom to catch any drips that might fall.

Next, move to your workspace to paint the doors and drawers. Paint one side of each door and drawer first. Use a brush for detailed areas and a roller for flat parts. Let them dry for 4 to 8 hours, but check the paint can for the exact time.

Once the first side is dry, flip the doors and drawers over. Paint the other side the same way. Apply 2 to 3 thin coats to get a strong, even finish. Sand lightly with 220-grit sandpaper between coats to keep the surface smooth.

Keep an eye out for drips while painting. If you see any, smooth them out with your brush while the paint is still wet to avoid bumps.

Step 7: Reassemble and Install

Your cabinets are almost ready to shine. First, let the paint dry completely to avoid fingerprints or smudges. This takes 24 to 48 hours for most paints. If you used oil-based paint, it might need more time, so check the can for exact drying instructions.

Next, reattach the hardware. Put the knobs, handles, and hinges back on the doors and frames. If you want a fresh look, try new hardware. Matte black or brushed gold styles are very popular in 2025 and add a modern touch.

Now, hang the cabinet doors back onto the frames. Use the labels you made, like “Top Right 2,” to make sure each door goes in the right spot. Double-check the numbers to avoid any mix-ups.

If any doors look crooked, adjust the hinges with a screwdriver. Tighten any loose screws to keep the doors secure and even.

Here’s a tip for fixing small issues: if paint covers the hinge screws, scrape it off gently with a utility knife. If doors stick when opening or closing, sand the edges lightly to make them move smoothly.

Step 8: Clean Up and Enjoy

You did it! Your cabinets look amazing, and now it’s time to finish up. Start by removing all the coverings. Peel off the painter’s tape from walls and counters, and fold up the drop cloths from the floor.

Next, clean your tools. Wash brushes and rollers with soap and water if you used latex paint. For oil-based paint, use mineral spirits to get them clean. Store any extra tools for future touch-ups.

Now, put everything back in your cabinets. Return dishes, pots, and appliances to their places. It feels great to see your kitchen coming together again.

Take a moment to admire your work. Step back and enjoy your beautiful new kitchen. You worked hard, and it shows!

Here’s a fun tip to make your kitchen even better: add a backsplash sticker or new countertop accessories that match your cabinets. These small touches will make your kitchen pop with style.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t let small mistakes ruin your cabinet painting project.

First, never skip cleaning. Grease on cabinets will mess up the paint if you don’t clean thoroughly. Take time to wipe away all dirt and grime.

Another mistake is rushing the prep work. Sanding and priming are very important for a smooth, professional finish. If you skip these steps, your paint might look uneven or peel off.

Using cheap paint is a bad idea. Low-quality paint chips and wears out quickly. Spend a little more on good paint to make your cabinets strong and long-lasting.

Painting too thick is another problem. Thick coats of paint drip and take a long time to dry. Instead, apply thin layers and add more coats for a better result.

Finally, don’t rush to reattach the doors. Wet paint smudges easily if you put doors back too soon. Be patient and let the paint dry fully before moving on.

Troubleshooting Problems

Ran into issues with your cabinet painting? Don’t worry, you can fix them easily.

If your paint looks uneven or has streaks, sand the surface lightly with 220-grit sandpaper. Wipe it clean to remove dust, then add another thin coat of paint for a smooth finish.

If the paint is peeling, you might have skipped the primer or didn’t clean well. Sand off the peeling areas, clean the surface thoroughly, apply primer, and repaint carefully to make it stick better.

Seeing brush marks? Try using a foam roller instead of a brush for flatter areas. It gives a smoother result. You can also thin the paint a little, but follow the instructions on the can to get it right.

If you notice bubbles or cracks in the paint, too much moisture or thick paint might be the problem. Sand the area until it’s smooth, apply a new coat of primer, and repaint using thin coats to avoid the same issue.

For yellowing, especially on white paint, oil-based paints can change color over time. To fix this, use latex paint or a non-yellowing enamel like Benjamin Moore Advance for a bright, lasting white.

Here’s a quick tip: keep extra paint for touch-ups. Store it in a cool, dry place so you can fix small scratches or chips later without repainting everything.

How to Maintain Your Painted Cabinets

To keep your painted cabinets looking great for years, follow a few simple steps. Start by cleaning them gently. Use a damp cloth with mild soap to wipe the surfaces. Stay away from harsh cleaners like bleach, as they can harm the paint and ruin your hard work.

Handle your cabinets with care to avoid damage. Don’t slam the doors or scrub them too hard when cleaning. Use soft sponges to keep the paint safe and looking fresh.

If you see scratches or chips, touch them up quickly. Dab a small brush with matching paint onto the damaged spots. This keeps your cabinets looking neat and prevents bigger problems.

Check your cabinets once a year for wear. Look closely at areas near handles or sinks, where damage happens most. If you find worn spots, repaint those small areas to keep everything nice.

For extra protection, consider adding a clear polyurethane topcoat, like Minwax Polycrylic. This is great for busy kitchens and makes cabinets more durable. Follow the can’s instructions and test it on a small area first to make sure it looks good.

Painting Different Cabinet Materials

Not all cabinets are made the same, so you need to handle each type carefully.

Wood cabinets are the easiest to paint. Sand them lightly, apply primer, and paint as explained in the steps. This makes the process simple and gives great results.

Laminate cabinets need a bit more care. Use a bonding primer, like Kilz Adhesion, to help the paint stick. Sand gently to avoid scratches. Check if the laminate is peeling. If it is, painting won’t work well, and you might need to replace the cabinets.

Metal cabinets are rare in kitchens but can be painted. Start with a metal primer, like Rust-Oleum, to prepare the surface. Sand any rusty spots to make them smooth. Latex paint is the best choice for a nice, lasting finish.

Thermofoil cabinets are tricky because of their plastic coating. If the coating is peeling, don’t try to paint them. If it’s in good shape, use liquid sandpaper to degloss the surface and apply a bonding primer. This helps the paint stay on.

If you’re not sure what type of cabinets you have, ask an expert. Take a photo of your cabinets to a paint store. They can tell you the right products to use for your project.

Color and Finish Trends for Kitchen Cabinets

Want your kitchen to feel fresh and stylish?

Choose the right colors and finishes for your cabinets. Soft neutrals like beige, taupe, or greige, create a warm, inviting look. These colors make your kitchen cozy and welcoming for everyone.

Earthy tones are another great choice. Try terracotta or olive green for a natural, organic feel. These colors bring a calm, outdoorsy vibe to your kitchen space.

For a bold style, go for two-tone cabinets. Paint the upper cabinets white and the lower ones a strong color, like charcoal. This mix adds a modern, exciting look to your kitchen.

When picking a finish, consider satin for a great balance. It’s slightly shiny, easy to clean, and looks modern. Satin is perfect for most kitchens and hides small smudges well.

Matte finishes are soft and trendy but can show fingerprints. They work best in kitchens that don’t get a lot of use. If your kitchen is quiet, matte can give a sleek, stylish touch.

Semi-gloss is extra strong and great for families with kids. It handles spills and messes well, keeping your cabinets looking good even in a busy kitchen.

Here’s a helpful tip: pair bold cabinet colors with neutral walls or countertops. This balance keeps your kitchen from feeling too loud and makes the colors stand out nicely.

Spray Painting vs. Brush and Roller

You can paint your cabinets with a brush and roller, as described in the steps, or try a paint sprayer. Each method has its own benefits and challenges. Using a brush and roller is a great option because it’s cheap and easy, especially for beginners. You don’t need any special equipment to get started.

However, brush and roller painting has some downsides. It might leave brush marks on your cabinets, and it takes longer to finish the job compared to other methods.

A paint sprayer, on the other hand, gives a super smooth, professional finish. It’s faster, which is great for big kitchens with lots of cabinets. This method can make your cabinets look like they came from a factory.

But paint sprayers come with challenges. They cost more, with rentals at $50 to $100 per day. They also need practice to use properly and require extra prep to cover everything, since the spray can get everywhere.

If you choose to spray, work in a well-ventilated area to avoid breathing fumes. Cover all surfaces, like counters and floors, to keep them clean. Wear a respirator mask to stay safe while spraying.

For most people, the best choice depends on your kitchen and skill level. Stick with a brush and roller if you have a small kitchen or you’re new to painting. Try a sprayer if you’re confident, have a large kitchen, and want a flawless look.

Environmental and Safety Tips

Painting your cabinets is fun, but you need to stay safe and think about the environment. Make sure your workspace has good ventilation. Open windows and use fans to keep fumes from building up. If you can, paint the cabinet doors outdoors to get more fresh air.

Choose low-VOC paints to be kinder to yourself and the planet. These paints have fewer harmful chemicals, so they’re safer to breathe. Look for “low-VOC” or “zero-VOC” labels on the paint can when you shop.

Dispose of leftover paint the right way.

Don’t pour it down drains, as it can harm the environment. Take any extra paint to a hazardous waste center. Check your local rules to find the nearest drop-off spot.

Protect yourself while painting.

Wear gloves, a mask, and safety glasses to avoid skin irritation, fumes, and splashes. Keep kids and pets away from wet paint and fumes to make sure everyone stays safe.

How Long Will It Take?

Painting an average kitchen with about 20 doors and 10 drawers takes a few days. On the first day, focus on preparation. This includes cleaning, sanding, and priming all surfaces. Expect to spend 6 to 8 hours to get everything ready for painting.

On the second day, you’ll apply the paint. Put on the first and second coats for the frames, doors, and drawers. This step also takes about 6 to 8 hours, depending on how fast you work and the size of your kitchen.

The third day is for finishing up the painting. Apply the final coat of paint and start reassembling the cabinets by hanging doors and attaching hardware. This usually takes 4 to 6 hours to complete.

You might need a fourth day for extra tasks. This is optional and includes doing touch-ups, cleaning up your workspace, and upgrading hardware if you want a new look. Plan for 2 to 4 hours for these final steps.

If your kitchen is large or the weather is humid, the project might take an extra day. Also, oil-based paints dry slower than latex paints, so they could add more time to the process.

Conclusion

Painting your kitchen cabinets is like giving your home a big, colorful high-five. It’s a fun way to show your style and make your kitchen feel new again.

This project takes hard work, but don’t let that stop you. The results are worth every effort. Your kitchen will look fresh, stylish, and completely your own.

With these steps and extra tips, you’re ready to paint like a pro. You have everything you need to make your cabinets look amazing.

Now it’s time to get started. Put on some music, grab your paintbrush, and have fun creating your dream kitchen.

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Also read:

• 17+ Best Kitchen Cabinet Ideas for Small and Large Spaces
• Everything You Need to Know About Varnishing Kitchen Cabinets
• Buying a New Kitchen: Essential Tips to Follow