Painting Raised Panel Cabinet Doors: A Step-By-Step Guide

how to paint raised panel cabinet doors

Painting raised panel cabinet doors can be a tricky task, and there are several schools of thought on the best approach. Some people opt for using MDF or plywood for the panels, as these materials are less likely to expand and contract, which can cause cracking in the paint over time. Others choose to use solid wood and simply accept that the paint may crack, or they may take steps to minimise this, such as caulking around the perimeter of the panel. When it comes to the painting process itself, it is important to properly prepare the cabinets by cleaning and sanding them, choosing the right primer and paint, and using the correct tools, such as brushes and rollers. It is also crucial to apply thin coats of paint and to leave the paint undisturbed as it dries to achieve a smooth finish.

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Prepare cabinets before painting

Preparing your cabinets before painting is a crucial step in ensuring a smooth and long-lasting finish. Here are the steps you should take to prepare raised panel cabinet doors for painting:

Remove Hardware

Start by taking off all the hardware, including handles, knobs, and hinges. This step will make the painting process easier and prevent any paint from getting on the hardware. Place the hardware in a safe location so you can easily find it when it's time to reassemble the cabinets.

Clean the Cabinetry

Use a mild soap and water mixture to clean all the cabinetry areas that will be painted. This step will remove any dirt, grease, or grime that has built up over time. After cleaning, make sure to dry the surfaces thoroughly.

Sand the Cabinets

Lightly sand the cabinets using sandpaper to create a rough surface that will help the paint adhere better. Pay particular attention to any glossy areas that need to be dulled down. Once you've finished sanding, wipe down the cabinets with a damp cloth to remove any dust.

Apply a Liquid De-glosser (Optional)

If you want to save time and effort, you can use a liquid de-glosser instead of sanding. Apply it with a lint-free cloth in a circular motion, following the instructions on the product label. Once the de-glosser has dried, you can proceed to the next step.

Prime the Cabinets

Use an oil-based primer and apply it to the cabinets with a brush. Oil-based primers will adhere better to the surface and provide a more durable finish. Allow the primer to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

By following these steps, you will ensure that your raised panel cabinet doors are properly prepared for painting, resulting in a professional-looking finish.

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Choose the right primer

When it comes to choosing the right primer for painting raised panel cabinet doors, there are several factors to consider. Here are some detailed guidelines to help you make the right choice:

  • Primer Type: Select a primer that is suitable for the surface you are working with. Oil-based primers are typically recommended for kitchen cabinets due to their strong adhesion and stain-blocking properties. They are especially effective for sealing knots and blocking tannins in wood cabinets. However, they have strong odours and require special solutions for cleanup. Water-based primers, on the other hand, offer easier cleanup with soap and water and are more suitable for interior projects, but may not provide the same level of adhesion. Latex primers are also an option, as they are healthier and can be used with latex paints on various surfaces, but may not be as durable.
  • Primer Finish: The primer's finish will determine the amount of shine. Flat/matte finish primers work best with most paints and produce no shine. Semi-gloss primers have a moderate amount of reflection, combining characteristics of flat and glossy primers. Glossy primers, on the other hand, are incredibly shiny and help create an ultra-smooth surface that enhances the look of approved paints.
  • Surface Considerations: Consider the specific needs of your cabinet doors. If they are made of wood, follow the grain when applying the primer for the smoothest results. If you are painting over a previous coat of paint, use an oil-based enamel undercoat primer if the paint is chipped or chalking. If the paint is in good condition, spot priming or no priming may be necessary. For bare wood, an oil-based primer is recommended to seal the surface and hide imperfections.
  • Stain and Odour Blocking: If your cabinets have stains or odours, opt for a stain-blocking primer. Oil-based primers are more effective for blocking water-based stains and odours, while water-based stain-blocking primers are better for solvent-based stains and offer easier cleanup.
  • Dry Time and Sanding: Consider the dry time of the primer and whether you need to sand between coats. Quick-drying primers can be convenient, but they may require additional coats for full coverage. Slower-drying primers, like oil-based primers, provide better adhesion and are easier to sand, resulting in a smoother finish.
  • Tinting: If you are making a drastic colour change, tinting your primer grey or a similar colour to your finish paint can reduce the number of topcoats needed. However, not all primers can be tinted, so choose one that allows for tinting.

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Pick the right painting supplies

Painting raised panel cabinet doors can be a great DIY project to give your kitchen a new look. To ensure the best results, it's crucial to pick the right painting supplies. Here are some detailed instructions on selecting the appropriate tools and materials:

Paintbrushes and Rollers:

  • Invest in high-quality paintbrushes and rollers for the best results. Avoid cheap options, as they may leave bristles on your cabinets or create unsightly brushstrokes.
  • For cabinet doors, a 2.5" angled sash brush is recommended. It allows you to paint the sides, raised edges, and the face of the cabinet doors with precision.
  • When choosing a roller, select one with the lowest nap possible. This will require more coats of paint but will result in a smoother finish. High-density foam rollers and 1/4" mohair nap rollers are excellent choices.

Paint:

  • Opt for high-quality paint specifically designed for cabinets, doors, and trim. These paints are easy to apply and provide a smooth finish.
  • Choose an acrylic latex-based paint for durability and easy cleanup. Avoid vinyl-based paints.
  • Consider the finish you desire. Semi-gloss or satin finishes are commonly used in kitchens, while gloss finishes may highlight dings or mistakes.
  • If you're painting over an existing coat of paint, ensure the previous paint is in good condition. Strip the old paint if needed.
  • Always follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding cure times.

Primer:

  • Select the appropriate primer based on the type of cabinet. For laminate cabinets, use a special bonding primer, and for wood cabinets, choose a suitable primer like Zinsser Bin Advanced Shellac primer.
  • If you're painting over an existing paint colour, consider using a primer to prevent the old colour from affecting the new one.

Other Supplies:

  • Dust mask or painting safety mask to protect yourself from fumes.
  • Paint trays and liners to hold and dispense the paint.
  • Sandpaper in medium to fine grit (220-grit or higher) for sanding between coats and creating a smooth surface.
  • Painter's tape to label cabinet doors and protect adjacent surfaces.
  • Drop cloths or plastic sheets to protect your work area and surrounding surfaces from paint drips.
  • Wood filler to repair any scuffs, nicks, or holes in the cabinets before painting.
  • Trisodium phosphate (TSP) or a similar heavy-duty degreaser to clean the cabinets and remove grease and grime.

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Select the best paint type

When it comes to selecting the best paint type for raised panel cabinet doors, there are a few options to consider. The most important factor is choosing a paint that will result in a smooth finish. Here are some recommendations and tips to help you select the best paint type:

Alkyd Enamel Paint: Alkyd enamel paint is a great option for cabinet doors as it provides a smooth finish and is easy to clean. You can use mild soap and a non-abrasive sponge to clean alkyd enamel paint, even with a matte sheen. Benjamin Moore Advance is a recommended brand that offers a choice of a matte sheen.

Latex Paint: If you're looking for a more affordable option, latex paint can be a good choice. However, it's recommended to go with 100% acrylic latex paint or acrylic-latex blend paint for the best results. These paints offer better quality and will provide a smoother finish.

Paint Additives: Consider using paint additives like Floetrol or M-1 products, especially if you're using latex paint. These additives help the paint lie flat, resulting in a super smooth, brush-mark-free finish. They also extend the drying time, giving you more time to work with the paint.

Primer: While primer selection is essential, the type of primer you choose depends on the type and condition of your current cabinets. A primer will help the paint adhere better and create a smoother overall finish.

Number of Coats: It's recommended to apply multiple thin coats of paint rather than a few thicker coats. Thin coats minimize brush strokes, texture, and the need for excessive levelling during drying. They are also easier to sand between coats, which is an important step for achieving a smooth finish.

Leave the Paint Alone: Once you've applied a coat of paint, resist the urge to fix any minor imperfections or touch up any mistakes. As the paint dries, it will level itself. Touching up wet paint will only create visible marks and imperfections. Instead, wait for the paint to dry completely, then sand away any imperfections before applying the next coat.

In summary, when selecting the best paint type for raised panel cabinet doors, opt for alkyd enamel paint or high-quality latex paint. Consider using paint additives for an even smoother finish. Remember to prime your cabinets, apply thin coats, and leave the paint undisturbed during the drying process. With these tips, you'll achieve a beautiful and smooth finish on your cabinet doors.

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Paint in the right order

Painting cabinet doors can be done with a brush and roller, achieving a smooth finish without a paint sprayer. To paint in the right order, follow these steps:

Firstly, prepare your cabinets by cleaning and sanding them. Use a TSP cleaner, which comes in a powder form that you mix with water or a premixed spray bottle. Clean the surface thoroughly with a sponge, then "rinse" off the excess cleaner with a damp towel. Finally, dry the cabinets and let them air dry completely. Before painting, it is also recommended to lightly sand the cabinets with 220-grit sandpaper to create a better surface for the primer to adhere to.

Secondly, choose the right primer for your cabinets. The type of primer will depend on the type and condition of your cabinets.

Thirdly, gather the correct painting supplies. When choosing a paintbrush, consider investing in a higher-priced brush for a better finish. An angled sash brush with a width of 2.5 inches is ideal for painting the sides, raised edges, and face of the cabinet doors with precision. For the roller, select one with the lowest nap possible, as this will require more coats but will result in a smoother finish. High-density foam rollers and 1/4" mohair nap rollers are recommended for the smoothest results.

Fourthly, select the best type of paint for your cabinets. This is an important step to achieve a smooth finish. It is recommended to use thin coats of paint instead of thicker coats to minimise brush strokes and texture.

Now, you can begin the painting process:

  • First, use your brush to paint the panel raise edges surrounding the centre panel. Be careful not to use too much paint to avoid dripping in the corners. You can also use a brush to paint the sides of the cabinet doors, wiping away any excess paint from the bottom.
  • Next, use a small roller to apply paint to the centre panel and the frame of the cabinet door. Ensure you roll off any excess paint from the roller before starting.
  • After painting, leave the paint alone to dry. Do not try to fix any mistakes or touch up the paint as it will show when it dries. Instead, wait until it dries completely, then sand away any imperfections before applying the next coat.
  • Sand properly between coats to ensure a smooth finish. Start with 220-grit sandpaper, then use a tack cloth to remove any dust. For an even smoother finish, you can use 400-grit sandpaper and lightly sand again.
  • The final coat is important, so use a very light amount of paint.

By following these steps in the right order, you will achieve a beautiful and smooth finish on your raised panel cabinet doors.

Frequently asked questions

Before painting, it is important to clean and sand the cabinet doors. This will ensure the paint adheres well and that the finish is smooth.

First, use a brush to paint the raised panel edges and sides of the cabinet doors, being careful not to use too much paint to avoid dripping. Then, use a small roller to apply paint to the centre panel and frame.

It is recommended to use thin coats of paint and to sand between coats to achieve a smooth finish. Alkyd enamel paint is a good option as it does not require a topcoat and can be easily cleaned.

As wood expands and contracts, the paint along the panel may crack over time. To avoid this, you can use MDF instead of solid wood, or apply a tiny bead of caulk or acrylic adhesive around the perimeter of the panel.

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