Painting Over Lacquer Kitchen Cabinets

For a sophisticated and sleek look, lacquer kitchen cabinets are a popular choice. However, over time or due to changing preferences, you may decide to transform them with a fresh coat of paint. While it's certainly doable, painting over lacquer presents its own set of challenges. This guide will provide you with a step-by-step process to help you achieve a professional-looking finish.

Preparing the Cabinets

Before grabbing your paintbrush, proper preparation is crucial to ensure a successful paint job. Begin by thoroughly cleaning the cabinets with a degreaser such as denatured alcohol or TSP (trisodium phosphate). Remove all dirt, grease, and grime that may interfere with the adhesion of the paint.

Next, sand the surfaces lightly with fine-grit sandpaper (220 or higher). This will create a slight tooth, allowing the paint to bond better. Wipe away any dust with a tack cloth before proceeding.

Priming is Key

Priming is an essential step that should not be skipped. Lacquer has a glossy finish that can repel paint, so a specialized primer is required to promote adhesion. Choose a bonding primer specifically designed for glossy surfaces, and apply it to the entire cabinet surface with a brush or roller.

Choosing the Right Paint

When selecting the paint for your newly primed cabinets, opt for a high-quality paint specifically intended for kitchen use. Enamel paints are highly recommended as they provide excellent durability and resistance to chipping and staining, making them ideal for high-traffic areas such as kitchens.

Application Techniques

For a smooth and even application, use a high-quality brush or roller with a foam or microfiber cover. Apply thin coats of paint, allowing ample drying time between each coat. Sand lightly between coats to remove any imperfections and provide a smooth surface for the subsequent coat.

For areas with intricate details, use a small brush to ensure proper coverage in hard-to-reach areas.

Finishing Touches

Once the final coat of paint has dried completely, you can add the finishing touches to complete your transformed kitchen cabinets. If desired, apply a polyurethane topcoat to enhance durability and protect the paint from wear and tear.

Additional Tips

Use a respirator during sanding and painting to protect yourself from fumes.

Open windows to ensure adequate ventilation.

Allow the cabinets to dry thoroughly before reattaching hardware or placing items back on them.

Regular cleaning with a mild detergent and water will help maintain the beauty of your newly painted cabinets.

By following these steps and adhering to the recommended techniques, you can successfully paint over lacquer kitchen cabinets and give your kitchen a fresh, updated look.