Do I need to sand cabinets between coats of paint?

Author: Dr. Doris Shanahan  |  Last update: Thursday, November 27, 2025

Even if you use liquid sandpaper before repainting, it's still important to sand in between each coat of primer and paint. Whether you want modern cabinets, rustic ones, or a more traditional vibe, this will help to achieve the most resilient results.

Should you sand between coats of paint on cabinets?

Do you sand between coats Yes! Always sand with a 220 grit sanding block. Just lightly enough to knock off any of the bumps or spray bubbles/drips. If you have a mess up drip sand that down until you can no longer feel it as your run your hand along it... then paint the next coat.

Is it OK to paint cabinets without sanding?

You can paint cabinets without sanding and even use discount paint, as long as it is gloss or semigloss. You can paint cabinets without sanding and even use discount paint, as long as it is gloss or semigloss.

What happens if you don't sand between paint coats?

However, generally speaking, if the first coat you apply is about perfect and there are no visible defects anywhere, then sanding may not be necessary if a second coat is applied right after the first one has dried. But once the first coat has fully cured, a second coat may not adhere as well as one would like.

Can you paint over already painted cabinets?

To paint already painted kitchen cabinets, start by cleaning the surfaces thoroughly. Sand the cabinets lightly to ensure good adhesion, then apply a primer suitable for previously painted surfaces. Once the primer is dry, use high-quality acrylic or latex paint to achieve a smooth, durable finish.

Sanding Between Coats - kitchen cabinet painting

Do you have to sand off old paint before repainting cabinets?

Painters should sand the cabinets down to remove any glossiness from the previous finish. This process creates tiny abrasions on the surface, which help the primer and paint adhere better. It also smooths out any imperfections and removes any loose or flaking paint.

Can you put too many coats of paint on cabinets?

You certainly don't want to skimp on the number of coatings you apply to your cabinets, but you also don't want to go overboard. Slapping on too many coats of primer or paint during cabinet refinishing can hinder adherence, interfere with proper drying, and result in strange lines and patterns on the finished surface.

Do professional painters sand between coats?

Conclusion. Sanding between coats of paint is a valuable step in the painting process that can greatly enhance the quality and longevity of your paint job. It helps to create a smoother and more professional-looking finish by eliminating imperfections and ensuring better paint adhesion.

Is it OK to paint without sanding?

The good news is that you can paint old furniture, without sanding, and it comes out beautifully. I've painted about 8 or 9 pieces of furniture, and I've gotten better results with each one. Here is my simple step-by-step guide to painting furniture without sanding.

What grit sandpaper to use between coats of paint?

180 to 220 Grit Sandpaper: Finer grit sandpaper is great for removing the scratches left by coarser grits on unfinished wood and for lightly sanding between coats of paint. 320 to 400 Grit Sandpaper: Very fine grit sandpaper is used for light sanding between coats of finish and to sand metal and other hard surfaces.

Do kitchen cabinets need to be sanded?

How much do I need to sand when prepping cabinets for painting? You do not need to sand down to bare wood as long as you scuff the previous finish well and remove all glossiness.

Does Beyond paint really work?

This paint is amazing! I didn't sand or prime, and the old oak cabinets look beautiful. This is a lot thicker than regular paint. I used it on a 1950ish cedar dresser that had old varnish on it and I didn't want to sand it all.

What is the best paint finish for kitchen cabinets?

Semi-gloss or satin: Semi-gloss is the best finish for painting kitchen cabinets. It has some sheen to help reflect light. It's durable, washable, and more resilient when scrubbed clean.

Should you paint cabinets 2 or 3 coats?

For the best results, you should apply two coats of stain-blocking primer and two coats of cabinet-grade paint. Use a fine-finish roller for panels and fixed pieces and an airless sprayer for cabinet doors to achieve a smooth, professional finish.

How do you get the smoothest finish when painting cabinets?

It is important to sand down the top layer of protective finish, if you are painting existing kitchen cabinets, or to use a degreaser. I use 120-grit sandpaper to level out any imperfections in my cabinets, then finish with 220 grit for a smooth surface. Vacuum and wipe down any debris with a tack cloth.

How long should cabinet paint dry between coats?

Let the first coat of cabinet paint dry for about 24-48 hours, then apply a second coat in the same manner. Wait another 24-48 hours for the second coat to dry before reinstalling your existing cabinet hardware - or add new hardware to complete the makeover!

What happens if you don't sand before repainting?

Poor paint adhesion is one of the most common consequences of skipping the sanding step. Without sanding, the cabinet surface remains smooth and may have a glossy finish or residual substances that hinder the paint from properly adhering.

Is liquid deglosser as good as sanding?

Liquid sandpaper is also referred to as deglosser and wet sanding. The advantage of using liquid sandpaper instead of regular sandpaper is that it's easier to apply and safer to use. You just rub liquid sandpaper over the object you wish to paint, wait a set amount of time and wipe off.

What happens if I paint over varnished wood without sanding?

Bonding primer: Specially formulated primers can create a strong bond between paint and varnish, even without sanding. However, these primers can be expensive and may not be as durable as a sanded and primed surface.

What happens if you apply a second coat of paint too soon?

Applying the second coat too early will result in lost time, money, and effort. Not only that but it'll also create additional stress that's not necessary. Applying the second coat too early will result in streaks, peeling paint, and uneven color.

Do I need to sand between finish coats?

Synopsis: Today's abrasives are so numerous and versatile that there is really no excuse for not sanding between coats of finish, especially since this technique is the key to a truly great finish.

Do I sand between coats of cabinet paint?

Even if you use liquid sandpaper before repainting, it's still important to sand in between each coat of primer and paint. Whether you want modern cabinets, rustic ones, or a more traditional vibe, this will help to achieve the most resilient results.

What kitchen cabinets cannot be painted?

What kitchen cabinets cannot be painted?
  • Melamine.
  • Laminate.
  • Vinyl.
  • Stainless Steel.

How to get rid of brush strokes on cabinets?

Sanding and Cleaning: Sand the surfaces with 220-grit sandpaper to remove any previous imperfections like roller stipple, brush marks, or bumps. Sanding will also de-gloss the surface, improving paint adhesion.

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