Painting Laminate Kitchen Cabinets With Chalk Paint

Repainting laminate kitchen cabinets with chalk paint is an easy and elegant way to give your kitchen a fresh new look. Chalk paint is a flat, matte paint with a velvety finish that adheres well to laminate and other non-porous surfaces without the need for priming.

Materials You'll Need

* Chalk paint in your desired color * Sandpaper or sanding sponge * Tack cloth * Paintbrush or foam roller * Polycrylic or other clear topcoat * Optional: bonding primer (if laminate is particularly glossy)

Step 1: Prepare the Cabinet Surfaces

* Remove all cabinet doors and hardware. * Clean the cabinet surfaces with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or grease. * Lightly sand the laminate surfaces with fine sandpaper or a sanding sponge to create a rougher surface for the paint to adhere to. * Wipe away any sanding dust with a tack cloth.

Step 2: Apply Bonding Primer (Optional)

* If the laminate is particularly glossy, apply a coat of bonding primer to help the paint adhere better. * Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application and drying time.

Step 3: Apply the Chalk Paint

* Apply a thin, even coat of chalk paint to the cabinet surfaces using a paintbrush or foam roller. * Allow the first coat to dry completely before applying a second coat. * Depending on the color and opacity of the paint, you may need to apply 2-3 coats for full coverage.

Step 4: Distress the Paint (Optional)

* If you want to distress the paint for a vintage or rustic look, lightly sand the edges or desired areas with sandpaper after the final coat has dried. * This will remove some of the paint, creating the illusion of age and wear.

Step 5: Apply a Clear Topcoat

* Once the paint is dry, apply a coat of clear polycrylic or other water-based topcoat to protect the finish. * Polycrylic dries quickly and provides a durable, semi-gloss finish that is resistant to moisture and scratches. * Apply 2-3 coats of topcoat, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

Step 6: Reinstall the Cabinet Doors and Hardware

* Once the topcoat is completely dry, reattach the cabinet doors and hardware. * Admire your newly transformed kitchen cabinets!

Tips for Success

* Use good quality chalk paint for best results. * Apply thin, even coats of paint to avoid brush strokes or drips. * Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next. * If the paint is too thick, thin it with a little water. * Rust-Oleum Chalked Ultra Matte is a popular choice for painting laminate cabinets. * If you're using a roller, use a high-density foam roller for a smoother finish. * Protect your countertops and floors with drop cloths during the painting process. * Be patient and allow ample drying time for the paint and topcoat to ensure a durable finish.