How To Paint Kitchen Cabinet Veneer

Painting kitchen cabinet veneer is really no different than painting solid wood cabinets. The job only requires a beginner level of painting and construction knowledge, and can be accomplished in a single afternoon. Get all of your tools and materials together before you begin, and then follow the steps have outlined here.

Use Water-Based Enamel Paint

You can use any type of paint you wish, but a water-based paint is much easier to clean up after the job. Any type of enamel paint is suitable, but water-based paint will save you some trouble in the long run.

Remove Doors and Drawers

Remove the doors and drawers, and then remove all hardware, such as knobs and handles. Set them out of the way. We will come back to the doors and drawers later and paint them. Examine the cabinets carefully and make any repairs that are required. Caulk joints and gaps.

Clean Surfaces with TSP Solution

Use a mild solution of trisodium phosphate, called TSP, to remove grime, grease and dirt from all surfaces to be painted. TSP is available in most hardware and paint stores, and remove grease and grime, which helps the paint stick. While it is safe to use, latex gloves will reduce the risk of irritating sensitive skin.

Lightly Sand Surfaces

To give the paint another helping hand, use a 220- grit sandpaper and lightly sand all surfaces. Wipe them down with a damp cloth after sanding to remove the dust that was generated. This is the final step to insure paint bonds well. Your cabinets are now ready for paint.

Sand After the First Coat

The first coat will also act as a primer coat. Apply it evenly, using smooth strokes, and always follow the grain of the material being painted. Once the first coat has been applied, allow it to dry for 1 to 2 hours, and then sand it lightly with the 220-grit sandpaper again. Don't forget to wipe away the dust of sanding.

Apply Final Coat

With the first coat dried and prepped, it is time for the final coat. Since this one will not be worked with after it is applied, take care to get a uniform, even coverage. Allow the second coat to cure for at least 2 hours. The longer the coat is able to dry, the harder and more durable it will be. Remember, enamel is a hard, tough finish.

Paint Door and Drawers

Paint your doors, drawers, and trim. Apply 2 coats as before, and allow the paint to dry completely before moving on to the next step. You can sand after the first coat again, if you'd like. The result is a better bonded paint job and a uniform appearance and texture. When the second coat is dry, replace the cabinet hardware. Replace the drawers and rehang to doors.