Are you tired of looking at your old, drab, fake wood cabinets? Painting them can be an easy and cost-effective way to give them a fresh look.
How to paint fake wood cabinets is an excellent way to refresh your kitchen or bathroom without the hefty cost of a complete renovation.
Whether your cabinets are made of laminate or another engineered wood alternative, a fresh coat of paint can breathe new life into them, giving your space a modern and updated look.
The process involves careful preparation, including cleaning and sanding the surfaces to ensure the paint adheres properly. With the right tools and techniques and patience, anyone can achieve a professional-looking finish.
In this guide, we will walk you through the steps needed to successfully paint your fake wood cabinets, transforming your space with a blend of creativity and style.
What Will You Need?
Before we dive into the steps, let’s take a look at what you’ll need to complete this project:
- Painter’s tape
- Sandpaper (medium grit)
- TSP cleaner or degreaser
- Primer suitable for laminate or engineered wood
- Paint rollers and brushes (foam brushes work well for cabinets)
- High-quality paint in your desired color and finish
- Optional: new cabinet hardware (knobs, handles, etc.)
Gather all of these materials before starting the project to avoid any delays. It’s also important to choose high-quality products, as they will contribute to the overall durability and longevity of your painted cabinets.
10 Easy Steps on How to Paint Fake Wood Cabinets
Step 1. Prepare the Area:
Before you begin painting, it’s essential to prepare the area to ensure a smooth and efficient workflow. Start by removing all cabinet doors and drawers, allowing you to work on each piece more easily.
Take off any existing hardware, such as handles or knobs, as this will prevent them from getting painted over and make it easier to apply the paint evenly across the entire surface. Lay down drop cloths or protective coverings on the floor and nearby surfaces to catch drips or spills.
Use painter’s tape to mask off any areas that you want to keep paint-free, such as walls adjoining the cabinets, countertops, or backsplashes. Proper preparation of the workspace is crucial as it protects your surroundings and sets the stage for a successful painting project by ensuring that every aspect of the process runs smoothly and efficiently.
Step 2. Clean the Surfaces:
With your workspace prepared, the next step is to thoroughly clean all cabinet surfaces to remove any grease, dirt, or grime that can interfere with paint adhesion. Use a TSP cleaner or a strong degreaser to wipe down each cabinet door, drawer front, and frame.
Pay special attention to areas around handles and knobs, as these tend to accumulate more dirt from frequent handling. After cleaning, ensure the surfaces are completely dry before proceeding to the next step. Proper cleaning is essential as it lays the groundwork for a smooth application and a long-lasting finish.
Step 3. Sand the Surfaces:
Sanding the surfaces of your cabinets is crucial for ensuring the new paint adheres well. Use medium-grit sandpaper to lightly sand all surfaces you plan to paint, including cabinet doors, drawer fronts, and frames. The goal is to create a slightly rough texture that helps the primer and paint bond more effectively.
Be sure to sand evenly and pay attention to corners and edges where paint tends to chip over time. Once you’ve finished sanding, thoroughly wipe down all surfaces with a damp cloth to remove any dust particles left behind. This step is essential in achieving a smooth and durable finish.
Step 4. Apply Primer:
Once the surfaces are sanded and clean, it’s time to apply a high-quality primer formulated explicitly for laminate or engineered wood. This step ensures the paint adheres properly and provides a uniform base for your chosen paint color.
Using a foam roller for flat surfaces and a brush for corners and edges, apply a thin, even coat of primer to all cabinet doors, drawer fronts, and frames. Allow the primer to dry completely, following the manufacturer’s recommended drying time. Applying primer not only enhances the paint’s durability but also helps achieve a smoother, more professional final finish.
Step 5. Apply the First Coat of Paint:
After the primer has thoroughly dried, you can begin applying the first coat of your chosen paint. Use a high-quality paint suitable for cabinets to ensure a durable finish. Start with a foam roller to cover larger flat surfaces smoothly, and then use a brush to do detailed work around edges and corners.
Apply the paint in thin, even strokes to avoid drips and ensure a uniform coat. Make sure to follow the wood grain for a more natural appearance. Once the first coat is applied, allow it to dry completely, following the paint manufacturer’s instructions before proceeding to the next step. A well-applied first coat creates a solid foundation for the final cabinetry transformation.
Step 6. Apply the Second Coat of Paint:
Once the first coat has thoroughly dried, examine the surfaces for any uneven areas or spots that may require extra coverage. If necessary, lightly sand any imperfections with fine-grit sandpaper to ensure a smooth application of the second coat. Apply the second coat of paint using the same method as before—a foam roller for large surfaces and a brush for detailed areas.
This second coat will provide a richer color and enhance the durability of the finish. After applying the paint, let it dry completely, following the manufacturer’s drying time instructions. A second coat ensures that your cabinets achieve the desired color depth and a professional-looking finish.
Step 7. Replace Hardware and Reassemble Cabinets:
Once the paint has thoroughly dried, it’s time to reassemble your cabinets. If you opted to replace the cabinet hardware, now is the perfect time to install the new handles or knobs. Begin by carefully aligning and attaching the latest hardware to each door and drawer front, ensuring that they are securely fastened and properly aligned.
Next, reattach the cabinet doors and slide the drawers back into their respective places. Take a moment to ensure everything opens and closes smoothly and all elements are correctly adhered to and aligned. This final step brings together your newly painted cabinets, giving them a refreshed, polished look that enhances the entire space.
Step 8. Final Touch-Ups and Curing:
After reassembling your cabinets, inspect them for any minor imperfections that might require touch-ups, such as small paint drips or uneven areas. Use a fine brush to carefully touch up these spots with the same paint used before, blending them seamlessly into the surrounding surface.
Once the touch-ups are complete, allow your cabinets to cure for the recommended time—usually a few days to a week—depending on the paint manufacturer’s instructions. Handle the cabinets gently during this period to ensure the paint fully hardens and achieves maximum durability.
Proper curing ensures that your newly painted cabinets will maintain their vibrant appearance and withstand daily use for years.
Step 9. Maintenance and Care:
To ensure your newly painted cabinets maintain their fresh look and durability, it’s essential to practice regular maintenance and care. Clean the cabinets periodically with a soft, damp cloth and mild detergent to remove any dust or smudges.
Avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals that can damage the paint finish. Be mindful of moisture, especially in kitchen and bathroom areas, to prevent paint from chipping or peeling. Additionally, check the cabinet hardware periodically to ensure it remains secure and functions smoothly. By adhering to these care guidelines, you can enjoy your beautifully transformed cabinets for years.
Step 10. Enjoy Your New Space:
Now that you have completed the cabinet transformation project, it’s time to enjoy your refreshed and updated space. Admire the new look and feel your freshly painted cabinets bring to the room. The enhanced appearance will add value and aesthetic appeal to your home, whether it’s a kitchen, bathroom, or any other area.
Share the outcome with family and friends, and take pride in the effort and craftsmanship that went into the project. You’ve not only improved the functionality of your space but have also created a more welcoming and visually appealing environment.
By following these ten steps, you can successfully transform your laminate or engineered wood cabinets into a beautiful and durable focal point in any room.
Conclusion
Transforming fake wood cabinets into beautiful, refreshed focal points is achievable with a thoughtful approach and suitable materials.
By carefully following the outlined steps, from thorough preparation with cleaning and sanding to applying primer and paint layers, each part of the process contributes to a high-quality, professional finish.
Ensuring patience during each drying and curing phase is crucial for long-lasting results. With proper maintenance and care post-transformation, your rejuvenated cabinets will continue to enhance the aesthetic of your space for years to come.
Overall, how to paint fake wood cabinets is not only a cost-effective way to update your home’s style, but it also offers the satisfaction of a rewarding DIY project.
