How to Repaint Cabinet Hinges

The best way to update a kitchen quickly and effectively is by making changes to kitchen cabinetry. That might include restoration or repainting of the cabinets themselves or simply the changing of cabinet hardware. When new hardware is out of reach of your budget, painting cabinet hinges could be the best alternative for you. However, painting cabinet hinges can be tricky if it isn't done correctly. Below are instructions for repainting cabinet hinges.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Paint Steel wool Sandpaper Primer Paint brushes Rubber gloves Mask

1. Decide if you want to use the same or a different color of paint to redo the hinges.
   
   Choose the type and color of paint to be used. Keep in mind that it will be easier to make a lighter color hinge darker than it will be to turn a dark hinge lighter.

2. Make the appropriate purchases necessary to complete the project. Be sure to make a list before you go shopping so as not to forget anything that is needed.

3. Remove the hinges that are to be repainted from the kitchen cabinets. Be sure to use the right tools for removal so as not to destroy the hinges or their screws.

4. Place the dirty hinges into a degreasing agent like Goo Gone or 20/20 to remove food particles, dust and dirt and anything else that may have become trapped within the pieces. It may be necessary to clean the hinges with a stiff toothbrush to remove all of the loose debris.

5. Rinse the hinges. Make sure they are thoroughly dry before moving on to the next step.

6. Prepare the hinges for the paint you have chosen to use. The exact method of preparation will depend somewhat on the type of paint on the hinges originally, the condition of the hardware and the paint you want to use to redo the hardware. However, in most instances the following steps will apply in some form.

7. Use steel wool or sandpaper to smooth out any knicks, scratches or other problems in the hardware. The idea isn't necessarily to remove the existing paint although roughing it up a bit will help the primer and new paint adhere better.

8. Prime the hinges using the appropriate type for the paint that will be used. Follow the instructions on the primer exactly.

9. Test the new paint on the inside of one of the hinges to make sure it will adhere to the surface the way you desire. If so, then proceed to the next step. If not, you may have to either switch paints or apply a second coat of primer.

10. Paint the cabinet hinges using the paint chosen, being careful not to let it glob up in the hinges. Otherwise, the paint might interfere with the proper function of the hinge and the paint might crack and peel away easily.

Tips & Warnings

• If feasible, remove the previous paint from cabinet hinges before repainting. This step will only be feasible with certain types of acrylic and enamel paints that will dissolve in the right cleaner. Spray paint works better for painting hinges because it is easier to control the amount of paint applied in one pass. Choose the type of paint appropriate for the material out of which the hinge is made. Choose high quality paint rather than something cheap that might not adhere properly or last long. Apply paint in thin even coats, letting each coat dry before applying another.
• Never attempt to paint over dirty hinges. The paint might adhere temporarily but it will be subject to peeling and flaking away. Don't use steel wool or sandpaper on textured hinges. Use safety equipment like gloves and a mask when working with paint.