What I wish I knew before painting cabinets?

Author: Keaton Tillman Jr.  |  Last update: Thursday, October 9, 2025

What to Know Before Starting a Kitchen Cabinet Painting Project
  • Not Testing Your Paint Color. ...
  • Skipping Painting Prep. ...
  • Not Prepping Correctly. ...
  • Insufficient Area Prep. ...
  • Leaving the Doors and Hardware On. ...
  • Painting Over Grease. ...
  • Over-Sanding, or Not Sanding. ...
  • Using the Wrong Paint Applicator.

Is there a trick to painting cabinets?

The Secret to Painting Cabinets Faster
  • 1. Clear and tape off the counter with tarps.
  • 2. Wash all of your cabinets multiple time with 1 part vinegar and 1 part water.
  • 3. Use caulk to fill in holes and cracks.
  • 4. I used a primer that sticks to glossy surfaces
  • 5. Do not remove cabinets or drawers.
  • 6.
  • 7.

What type of cabinet shouldn't you paint?

Cabinets made of stainless steel, vinyl, and laminate aren't easy to paint over. Paints are known not to bond with these particular surfaces, which may result in the paint chipping or peeling easily.

What do professional painters use to paint cabinets?

Acrylic Latex Paint: This is a popular choice for cabinets due to its durability, easy cleanup, and low odor. Look for a high-quality, semi-gloss or satin finish for a smooth surface and easy maintenance.

What are the mistakes for painting kitchen cabinets?

By avoiding these three biggest mistakes – insufficient surface preparation, poor paint selection and application, and neglecting proper curing time – you can achieve a professional-looking finish that enhances the aesthetic appeal of your kitchen while ensuring the longevity of your painted cabinets.

What I Wish I Knew Before Painting Cabinets - Ace Hardware

Should cabinets be painted flat or satin?

For high-traffic areas like the kitchen or bathroom, a satin finish may be a better choice as it's more durable and easy to clean. However, in areas like bedrooms or living rooms, a gloss finish may be a better choice as it can add a touch of elegance to the room.

Why do my cabinets feel sticky after painting?

When paint remains tacky to the touch and refuses to dry, the issue often lies with quality of the paint. But the problem may also be linked to your painting environment (in terms of humidity and temperature) ​or application issues like failing to prepare the surface properly or not letting the paint dry between coats.

What is the most popular kitchen cabinet color for 2024?

The Newest 2024 Kitchen Cabinet Color Trends
  1. Stained Cabinetry. “Stained cabinetry is definitely having a moment right now,” says Cheyenne Ely, owner and principal designer at Cheyenne Paige Interiors in The Woodlands, Texas. ...
  2. Moody Green. ...
  3. Warm Neutrals.

Is it better to spray or roll paint on cabinets?

The Final Verdict. 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.

What paint does Joanna Gaines use on cabinets?

MAGNOLIA HOME BY JOANNA GAINES® TRIM, DOOR + CABINETRY INTERIOR SEMI-GLOSS PAINT 4.5 out of 5 stars, average rating value.

When not to paint cabinets?

Won't Work on All Cabinets

The decision to paint or replace your cabinets depends on the current shape that they are in, so painting isn't a wise choice for all cabinets. If your cabinets are warped, chipped, or have other damages then painting them won't solve your problem.

What color cabinets never go out of style?

Kitchen Cabinet Colors That Never Go Out of Style
  • The Eternal Whites. White. Off-White. Creamy White.
  • Graceful Grays. Light Gray. Dark Gray.
  • Wood Tones.
  • Two-Tone Designs.
  • Timeless Elegance for Your Kitchen.

Which color is not good for the kitchen?

4 Colors to Avoid When Painting Your Kitchen

Allen agrees, noting that very bright and bold colors, such as red or orange, should be avoided, as they can be overwhelming for the space. Allen also notes that homeowners are better off skipping the darker hues.

How to get the smoothest finish when painting cabinets?

You'll apply primer first with a brush to “cut in” those hard-to-reach crevices and edges, then go back over the surface with a roller. After your primer is dry, sand everything gently with 220-grit sandpaper. Remove dust with a tack cloth or compressed air, and get ready to paint.

Is it better to paint cabinets with a roller or brush?

Using a brush for cabinet painting ensures that you will get a smooth, even finish on your cabinets. A brush can also help get into all the nooks and crannies of your cabinets, which a roller might miss.

What happens if you don't sand cabinets before painting?

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.

What paint do pros use for cabinets?

We usually use professional-grade lacquer because it has a lovely, silky-smooth feel to it, and is what cabinet manufacturers use. We think it's the best paint for cabinets, hands-down (although there are some great pro-level water-based options as well).

Are foam rollers good for painting cabinets?

DIY enthusiasts and professionals have grown fond of using high-density foam rollers. This makes them a great choice is their ability to provide a flawless, smooth surface, making them ideal for use on cabinets and furniture. The dense foam ensures even coverage, eliminating the problem of brush marks or uneven layers.

Should I apply primer with a brush or roller?

Applying primer first is the best way to ensure a perfect finish later. Just as it does with makeup and on cars, primer creates a smooth base that promotes better adhesion and truer color from your topcoat paint. Pro-tip: Apply primer using a brush first to “cut in" around edges, then use a roller to fill in.

What color is replacing gray in 2024?

Beige is emerging as the new go-to neutral, adding warm and inviting tones to interiors. In this article, we'll explore why beige is taking over and how to use it in your home. Beige is replacing gray as a popular interior color, offering warmth and versatility for various design styles.

What color of cabinets is most timeless?

Below, we discuss the best cabinet color options for a kitchen remodeling project for a beautiful aesthetic that's always on point. Arguably, the most timeless kitchen cabinet color is white. Bright white cabinets suit a variety of beautiful kitchens, including modern, contemporary, and farmhouse styles.

Are oak cabinets outdated?

So, if you're thinking about a kitchen remodel, remember oak cabinets are far from being a thing of the past. With their timeless charm, myriad color options, and the ability to incorporate updates, these might just be the perfect choice for your dream space.

What to put over painted cabinets to prevent chipping?

What can I put over painted cabinets to prevent chipping? A professional interior painter will use a topcoat sealer to protect painted cabinets from chipping. A resilient, top-notch poly or acrylic coating is recommended for enduring protection against wear and tear.

What kind of Sherwin Williams paint for cabinets?

Tip: Emerald® Urethane Trim Enamel in Gloss, Semi-Gloss or Satin sheen is among the best paint for kitchen cabinets because it has excellent flow and leveling characteristics, resulting in a smooth and durable finish.

Can I cook in a freshly painted kitchen?

Oven Heat. Exposing your cabinets to oven heat is inevitable, but you should try to avoid it as much as possible for at least a couple of days after painting your kitchen cabinets. This is especially true of using the oven self-cleaning mode.

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