General Finishes Milk Paint Kitchen Cabinets Blog

Essential Aspects of General Finishes Milk Paint Kitchen Cabinets

Transforming your kitchen cabinets with General Finishes Milk Paint offers numerous benefits. This guide delves into the essential aspects of utilizing milk paint for your cabinetry project.

Preparation

Thorough preparation is crucial for a successful outcome. Remove cabinet doors and hardware, clean surfaces with a degreaser, and sand lightly with 120-grit sandpaper to create a smooth base for the milk paint to adhere to.

Product Selection

General Finishes Milk Paint comes in various colors and finishes. Choose a hue that complements your kitchen decor. Consider the desired sheen level: Flat for a classic matte look, Satin for a delicate sheen, or Gloss for a lustrous finish.

Application

For best results, apply milk paint in thin, even coats. Use a high-quality brush or roller and work in small sections to avoid brush strokes. Allow each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next.

Topcoat

A topcoat is essential to protect your painted cabinetry from wear and tear. General Finishes offers various topcoats, such as High Performance Topcoat (matte or satin finish) or Arm-R-Seal (gloss finish). Apply multiple thin coats for optimal durability.

Hardware and Reassembly

Once the paint and topcoat have cured, reattach the cabinet doors and hardware. Clean new hardware with isopropyl alcohol before installation to remove any oils or residue.

Distressing

For an aged or vintage look, you can distress the cabinets after applying the topcoat. Use sandpaper or steel wool to lightly sand edges, corners, or areas where wear would naturally occur. Apply a thin layer of Antiquing Glaze for a deeper aged appearance.

Cleaning and Maintenance

To maintain your milk-painted cabinets, use a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals or cleaners that may damage the finish. If repairs are needed, consult the General Finishes website for touch-up instructions.