How to Paint Laminate Wood Cabinets

Paint and hardware can change the look of old laminate cabinets!

This article covers all the steps you'll need to paint laminate wood cabinets. One of the reasons that paint won't adhere to a laminate surface is it's non-porous. It's so smooth, there's nothing for the paint to hold on to. In these steps, we'll share how to solve that problem.

It's a great way to save a few dollars while improving the look of your kitchen or bath.

Things You'll Need

• TSP (cleaning fluid found at a hardware or paint store)
• Rags
• Medium grade sand paper
• Paint brush and roller
• Primer
• Fine grade sand paper
• Semi (or high) gloss durable wear paint.

Instructions

1. 

   To work with the cabinets, they must be clean. Use TSP (Trisodium phosphate) which can be found at any paint or hardware store. Follow the instructions as it may require diluting with water. Rinse the cabinets and let them dry.

2. 

   Using a medium grade sandpaper, rough up the surface of the laminate. You're not trying to sand it necessarily, just give it some texture. Wipe all the sanding dust off when you're finished.

3. 

   Using a roller for the flat surfaces and a brush for edges or tight spots, apply a thin coat of primer. Remember that any ridges will need to be sanded out later, so don't apply to heavily. Allow to fully dry.

4. Using the fine grade sandpaper, buff out any ridges or lumps in your primer application. Again, wipe off residual sanding dust.

5. 

   Using a brush and a roller as above, go ahead and apply a nice thin coat of your paint. Using semi or full gloss will give it an extra measure of durability. Allow to fully dry, shouldn't be "tacky" to the touch at all. Do it again for better coverage. Allow to fully dry and reinstall doors. Voila! A painted laminate surface.

Tips & Warnings

• A stenciled image like flowers or a basket of fruit can add a nice homey touch to cabinet doors.

• Hint: It's much easier to do the next two steps if the cabinets doors have been taken off and the hardware removed. It's possible to do them with the cabinet doors still hanging, it just results in a spottier job.

• Use gloves and proper ventilation because like most chemicals it can make you light headed.

• TSP is strong stuff so respect it by using proper safety precautions