What Is The Best Frenchic Paint For Kitchen Cupboards

What Is The Best Frenchic Paint For Kitchen Cupboards?

Revamping kitchen cupboards is a popular home improvement project, offering a cost-effective alternative to replacing the entire kitchen. Frenchic Furniture Paint has emerged as a favoured choice for many due to its self-priming, self-sealing, and low VOC (volatile organic compounds) properties. However, with several different product lines available, determining the best Frenchic paint for kitchen cupboards requires careful consideration of factors such as durability, finish, application method, and the existing cupboard material.

The Frenchic product range suitable for kitchen cupboards primarily consists of three main contenders: Original Artisan Range, Lazy Range, and Al Fresco Inside/Outside. Each range boasts unique characteristics that lend themselves to different aesthetic preferences and usage requirements. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of each product line is crucial for making an informed decision.

Before delving into the specifics of each paint range, it's important to acknowledge the preparation involved. Regardless of the chosen paint, proper preparation is paramount for achieving a professional and long-lasting finish. This typically includes cleaning the cupboards thoroughly with sugar soap or a similar degreasing agent to remove any grease, grime, or residue. Light sanding may also be necessary to provide a key for the paint to adhere to, especially if the existing surface is glossy.

Original Artisan Range

The Original Artisan Range is a chalk-based paint renowned for its matte finish and suitability for creating distressed or vintage-inspired looks. While it can be used on kitchen cupboards, it requires additional sealing for durability and water resistance, especially in high-traffic areas such as around the sink or hob. The range is available in a wide array of colours, offering ample creative possibilities.

Application typically involves two to three coats, depending on the desired opacity and the colour being used. The paint can be applied with a brush, roller, or sprayer. A brush will leave subtle brushstrokes, creating a textured finish, while a roller provides a smoother, more uniform appearance. Spraying is generally best for achieving a flawless finish, but requires more skill and equipment.

The key advantage of the Original Artisan Range lies in its versatility for achieving aged or textured effects. Techniques such as distressing, layering, and dry brushing can be easily employed to create a unique and personalized look. However, the need for sealing is a significant consideration, as it adds an extra step to the process and can affect the overall finish. Frenchic recommends their Finishing Coat or Tough Coat for sealing the Original Artisan Range on kitchen cabinets.

Without sealing, the Original Artisan Range is susceptible to water damage and staining, making it less ideal for kitchen environments that are prone to spills and splashes. Therefore, thorough sealing is essential to ensure the longevity and durability of the painted surface.

Lazy Range

The Lazy Range distinguishes itself with its self-priming, self-leveling, and self-sealing properties. This means that minimal preparation is required, and no additional sealant is necessary, streamlining the painting process considerably. The paint offers a matte finish, similar to the Original Artisan Range, but with enhanced durability and water resistance.

Due to its self-leveling properties, the Lazy Range tends to produce a smoother finish than the Original Artisan Range, even when applied with a brush. This makes it a popular choice for those seeking a modern, clean look. The paint is also known for its excellent adhesion, making it suitable for a variety of surfaces, including laminate and melamine, which are commonly found in kitchen cupboards.

The Lazy Range is particularly well-suited for busy households or those new to furniture painting due to its ease of use and time-saving qualities. The self-sealing nature eliminates the need for an additional step, reducing the overall project time and minimizing the risk of errors. However, the colour selection is more limited compared to the Original Artisan Range. Additionally, while durable, the Lazy Range may still benefit from a coat of Frenchic's Tough Coat in high-use areas for added protection.

While the Lazy Range is described as self-priming, it is still recommended practice to lightly sand glossy surfaces to provide a better key for the paint. This will ensure optimal adhesion and prevent chipping or peeling over time. Furthermore, very dark cupboards may still benefit from a coat of Frenchic's Finishing Coat after painting.

Al Fresco Inside/Outside

The Al Fresco Inside/Outside range is formulated for both interior and exterior use, offering exceptional durability and weather resistance. This makes it a particularly robust option for kitchen cupboards, especially in high-traffic areas or homes with children or pets. The paint boasts a slightly sheen finish between matte and satin, providing a subtle sheen that is easier to clean than a matte finish. The finish is described as "egg-shell" in appearance by many users.

The Al Fresco Inside/Outside range features similar self-priming properties to the Lazy Range but offers even greater durability. It is designed to withstand moisture, UV exposure, and general wear and tear, making it an excellent choice for kitchen environments where spills and splatters are common. The range also offers good adhesion and can be applied to a variety of surfaces, including wood, metal, and plastic.

The primary advantage of the Al Fresco Inside/Outside range is its longevity and ease of maintenance. The durable finish resists scratches, stains, and fading, ensuring that the painted cupboards maintain their appearance for years to come. The slightly sheen finish also makes it easier to wipe down and clean, a significant benefit in a kitchen setting. The colour range is extensive.

The Al Fresco Inside/Outside range may require slightly more skill to apply smoothly than the Lazy Range due to its thicker consistency. However, this thickness contributes to its enhanced durability. Careful application with a good quality brush or roller is essential to achieving a flawless finish. Multiple thin coats are generally preferred over one thick coat to prevent drips and ensure even coverage.

While the Al Fresco range is generally suitable for even the most rigorous situations, it is important to note that correct preparation is still key, as with all Frenchic products. A light sanding of glossy surfaces will always improve adhesion, and degreasing the cupboards thoroughly before commencing on the painting process is key to the best possible outcome.

Key Considerations for Choosing the Best Frenchic Paint

Ultimately, the best Frenchic paint for kitchen cupboards depends on a variety of factors, including the desired aesthetic, usage requirements, and the existing condition of the cupboards.

Durability and Water Resistance

For kitchens that experience heavy use or are prone to spills and splashes, the Al Fresco Inside/Outside range is generally the most suitable option due to its excellent durability and water resistance. The Lazy Range offers a good balance of durability and ease of use, making it a viable alternative. The Original Artisan Range, while aesthetically pleasing, requires additional sealing to achieve adequate protection against moisture and staining.

Ease of Application and Preparation

The Lazy Range stands out for its self-priming, self-leveling, and self-sealing properties, minimizing the amount of preparation and post-painting work required. The Al Fresco Inside/Outside range also offers self-priming properties but may require slightly more skill to apply smoothly. The Original Artisan Range requires additional sealing, adding an extra step to the process.

Desired Finish and Aesthetic

The Original Artisan Range is ideal for creating distressed or vintage-inspired looks with a matte finish. The Lazy Range also offers a matte finish but with a smoother, more uniform appearance. The Al Fresco Inside/Outside range boasts a subtle sheen finish, providing a modern and easily cleanable surface. The choice of finish depends entirely on personal preference and the desired style of the kitchen.

In conclusion, selecting the best Frenchic paint for kitchen cupboards requires careful consideration of various factors. The Al Fresco Inside/Outside emerges as a strong contender for its exceptional durability and water resistance, while the Lazy Range offers a convenient and user-friendly option with self-priming and self-sealing properties. The Original Artisan Range allows for creative freedom in achieving aged or textured effects, but requires extra sealing for kitchen use. By evaluating the specific needs and preferences, it's possible to choose the Frenchic paint that will deliver the best results for a kitchen cupboard makeover. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for preparation and application to ensure a long-lasting and beautiful finish.