How to Paint the Interiors of Kitchen Cabinets
Kitchen cabinet interiors are easily forgotten since the surface is generally hidden beneath boxes and dishes. Paint with a hard finish will not only protect the wood underneath the paint, but the paint color you select can also make a statement. Rather than picking basic white as your paint color, select a color to complement your kitchen decor. Many homeowners find the kitchen is not only is a busy room for family members, but also an area where guests like to congregate. Make your cupboards stand out with fresh paint and a new color. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Drop cloth
- Soapy water
- Cleaning cloth
- 60-grit sandpaper
- Primer
- Paintbrush
- 240-grit sandpaper
- Alkyd paint
- Paint thinner
Instructions
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1
Remove all the contents from the cupboard and any removable shelves. Clear the countertop and use a drop cloth or newspaper to protect the surface.
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2
Wash the inside, shelves and the back of the door with soapy water and a clean cloth, and dry the surface.
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3
Sand the surface with 60-grit sandpaper. Coarse sandpaper will rough up the old paint and the new paint will adhere better. This step is especially important if the old paint has a smooth finish. Wipe the surface with a damp cloth to remove dust residue.
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Apply a primer with a paintbrush. Paint from top to bottom, starting on the back wall and then the sides. Allow the paint to dry before painting permanently attached shelves, starting with the top shelf. Paint the back of the door last. Read the drying time on the label.
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5
Examine the paint for rough spots after the paint has dried. Gently sand the rough spots using 240-grit sandpaper. Wipe the dust from the surface.
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Paint the surface with an alkyd paint to produce a hard and protective finish. Oil based paints, such as alkyd paint, are more resistant to cleaners and heavy wear than other paint finishes.
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Place the brush in paint thinner to clean. Replace the paint thinner as needed until the thinner is clear. Squeeze out the excess thinner and blot the brush. Hang the brush with the bristles pointing down.
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Tips & Warnings
Place removable shelves on a tarp or newspaper to paint.
A paint brush with bristles cut on an angle is good for painting into corners.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
