How To Paint New Unfinished Cabinets

Painting new unfinished cabinets can be a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be. With the right preparation and materials, you can achieve a professional-looking finish that will last for years to come.

Preparing the Cabinets

The first step is to prepare the cabinets. This involves removing all hardware, doors, and drawers. Once the cabinets are empty, clean them thoroughly with a degreaser to remove any dirt or grease. Allow the cabinets to dry completely before proceeding.

Priming the Cabinets

Once the cabinets are clean, you need to prime them. Primer helps create a smooth surface for the paint to adhere to and prevents the wood from absorbing too much paint. Apply a thin coat of primer to the cabinets using a brush or roller. Allow the primer to dry completely before proceeding.

Painting the Cabinets

Now it's time to paint the cabinets. Choose a high-quality paint that is specifically designed for cabinets. Apply two thin coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Use a brush to get into the corners and edges, and a roller for the larger surfaces.

Distressing the Cabinets (Optional)

If you want to give your cabinets a distressed look, you can do so after the paint has dried. To distress the cabinets, you will need to sand them lightly with sandpaper. Focus on the edges and corners of the cabinets, where the paint is most likely to chip and wear. Once you have sanded the cabinets to your desired level of distress, seal them with a clear sealer to protect the finish.

Reassembling the Cabinets

Once the paint has dried completely, you can reassemble the cabinets. Install the doors, drawers, and hardware. Be sure to tighten all the screws and bolts securely.

Tips for Painting New Unfinished Cabinets

Here are a few tips for painting new unfinished cabinets:

Use a high-quality paint and primer.
Apply thin coats of paint and allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
Use a brush to get into the corners and edges, and a roller for the larger surfaces.
If you want to distress the cabinets, do so after the paint has dried.
Seal the cabinets with a clear sealer to protect the finish.

Conclusion

Painting new unfinished cabinets can be a rewarding project that can transform the look of your kitchen or bathroom. By following the steps outlined above, you can achieve a professional-looking finish that will last for years to come.