Depending on what kind of primer you're using and the state of the cabinets, you will need 1-2 coats of primer. For many cabinets, one coat is plenty, but if you're uncertain, a second coat won't hurt as long as it's not applied too thick. When it comes to the actual paint, you will need at least two coats.
You will want to use 2-3 coats of primer to ensure there is a good bond between the new paint and the wall, and also to cover up any previous colors, especially if they are red, orange, or a strange outdated color. In short, you will typically need 2 coats of primer for most painting projects.
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.
Note: While you don't have to sand before you prime, you do need to sand lightly after you prime and between each coat of paint.
Typically, contractors use a primer, then two coats of paint—the primer to seal the surface and improve paint adhesion and the paint to provide color and protection.
Wood – For bare wood that's never been painted, apply two coats of an oil- or water-based primer. Oil-based primers generally perform better on bare wood, but water-based primers can work well on smooth softwood surfaces.
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.
New paint will not easily stick to a smooth surface. Thus, if you don't sand the paint job (at least a little bit), your paint will begin to flake and peel in no time at all. A little bit of surface roughness will provide the traction that is needed for the paint to stay in place.
Applying primer: 1-2 hours. Painting the first coat of paint: 2-4 hours. Painting the second coat of paint: 2-4 hours. Drying and curing time: 24 hours.
Once your primer is completely dry, use a fine, 220-grit sandpaper to lightly sand all surfaces. Make sure to focus especially on areas that may have pools or drips of paint, such as inside and flat corners. The smoother this surface becomes, the smoother your paint will go on. Wipe away any dust with a damp cloth.
When it comes to cabinet painting, using a sprayer is the fastest approach and it will also provide that factory-like finish you're aiming for. In fact, you can paint each side of your cabinet doors or drawers in just a few seconds and then move onto the next, cutting down on the timeframe for completion dramatically.
It doesn't matter if you brush or roll primer, but make sure you do a good job of it! When you prime your cabinets, it helps to sand in between each coat with a fine sanding sponge or 220-grit sandpaper.
Both Slavik and Fiorilli agree—using a paint sprayer is the best way to achieve the most professional cabinet finish as well as save time. That doesn't mean that a brush or roller should never be used though.
Usually one coat of Kilz will be enough to cover any texture issues, stains, previous colors, and odors.
A good rule of thumb is to wait at least three hours to recoat your paint or primer if it's water-based. Waiting 24 hours is best for oil-based paint and primer. If you're unsure, the instructions on the paint's label can give you the best final say.
Don't over or under apply the primer: You should aim to apply two coats of primer to your wood's surface. Brush the primer on, and allow the first coat to dry completely before adding the second coat.
Paint the cabinet boxes
If you're using roughly the same shade as the existing color, two coats ought to do the job. You might even get away with one. Painting over a dark finish with a light color is tougher and could require three coats. Break out a new brush for each coat.
A: In order to get a factory finish look on cabinets when you paint them yourself, you will actually use both a brush and a roller. However, the majority of the painting will be done with a roller. Specifically, a foam roller with give you the smoothest finish when painting cabinets.
For your finish to be vibrant and not dull sanding after primer will ensure that the finish is not excessively dulled when you apply your paint top coat. You will typically use finer grit sandpaper and aim to achieve a smooth wood finish so that you get a fine appearing wood finish when you apply your topcoat.
For best results, allow to Primer to dry for 1 hour before dry sanding. Test in an inconspicuous area to be sure Primer is dry enough for sanding. Block sand the area using 320-400 grit sandpaper.
Sanding Primer Before Painting
The quick answer to the question, “Do I need to sand primer before painting my wall?” is YES. Primer should be sanded before you apply the paint. A primer is used to help cover up the existing color of your wall.
The average time for oil-based primers to cure is about 24 hours. The paint will be dry to the touch in a few hours, but it will take longer than that for the primer to harden completely (cure). That's why not a lot of people prefer this type of primer, as it can take longer to dry.
On a new wall, you'll want to follow the rule and apply two coats of paint after primer. Follow the same standard for drywall. If you're repainting a wall, you'll only need one coat if you're using the same color and it's a quality paint.
While it's important to apply enough primer to create a smooth canvas for your makeup, applying too much can actually have the opposite effect. Too much primer can create a thick, cakey layer on your skin, which can make it difficult for your foundation to adhere properly.