How to paint kitchen cabinets: a step-by-step guide

Repainting your kitchen cabinets is a wonderful way to transform a kitchen without replacing the existing cabinetry. Whether you’re refreshing a traditional country kitchen or introducing a completely new colour scheme, a carefully chosen paint colour can make a remarkable difference.

Unlike painting walls, kitchen cabinetry requires particularly thorough preparation. From removing grease and sanding existing finishes to priming and applying the final coats, here’s our step-by-step guide to achieving a beautiful, lasting finish with Edward Bulmer Natural Paint.

What you’ll need

• Edward Bulmer Water-Based Eggshell in your chosen colour
• A suitable primer
• Degreaser
• Sandpaper in appropriate grades
• Paintbrushes or a suitable small roller
• Clean cloths
• Filler, if required
• Dust sheets
• Masking tape
• Screwdriver for removing handles and hinges

Step 1: Remove doors and hardware

For the best results, we recommend removing cabinet doors and drawer fronts where practical, along with handles, knobs and other hardware.

Working on a flat surface makes it easier to prepare and paint each piece evenly, particularly around edges and decorative mouldings.

Protect your floors and work surfaces with dust sheets, and make sure your painting area is clean, well ventilated and free from excessive dust.

Step 2: Clean and degrease thoroughly

Kitchen cabinets are exposed to cooking oils, grease and everyday handling, so thorough cleaning is one of the most important stages of preparation.

Use a suitable degreaser, following the manufacturer’s instructions, to clean all surfaces you intend to paint. Pay particular attention to areas around handles, cooking appliances and frequently used cupboards.

Wipe away any residue and allow the surfaces to dry completely before continuing.

Step 3: Sand the existing finish

Sanding helps create a suitable surface for the new paint to adhere to.

The amount of sanding required will depend on the material and existing coating. Glossy or previously varnished cabinets may need more extensive preparation than those with a sound, previously painted finish.

Sand the surfaces evenly, paying attention to edges, corners and mouldings. Remove all dust using a vacuum and a clean cloth before proceeding.

If you’re working with laminate, factory-finished cabinetry or an unknown coating, seek advice on the appropriate preparation and primer before painting.

Step 4: Prime the surfaces

Once the cabinets are clean, dry and properly prepared, apply a suitable primer where required.

Our Water-Based Eggshell Primer is designed for use with our Water-Based Eggshell on suitable substrates.

The correct primer and preparation will depend on the cabinet material and existing finish, so always consult the relevant technical data sheets before starting.

Allow the primer to dry as directed before applying your topcoat.

Step 5: Apply the first coat

Stir your chosen paint thoroughly before use to ensure the pigments are evenly distributed.

Using a suitable brush or small roller, apply the first coat of Water-Based Eggshell evenly across the prepared surfaces.

Work methodically, following the direction of the wood grain where appropriate. Take care around panelled doors, mouldings and corners, where excess paint can collect.

Avoid applying the paint too thickly, as thinner, even coats will help achieve a smoother finish.

Allow the first coat to dry for the recommended period before recoating.

Step 6: Lightly sand between coats

Once the first coat is ready for recoating, inspect the painted surfaces for any dust particles, raised grain or other imperfections.

If necessary, lightly sand with a suitable fine-grit abrasive to smooth the finish, taking care not to remove the paint unnecessarily.

Remove all sanding dust before applying the next coat.

Step 7: Apply the second coat

Apply the second coat using the same method, working carefully to achieve an even finish across doors, drawer fronts and cabinet frames.

Two coats will typically provide good coverage on a suitably prepared surface, although additional coats may be required depending on the substrate, existing colour and chosen shade.

Follow the relevant technical data sheet for application and recoating guidance.

Step 8: Allow the paint to cure

Although the paint may be dry enough for careful handling before it has fully cured, newly painted cabinets should be treated gently while the finish develops its full hardness.

Avoid heavy use, vigorous cleaning and unnecessary contact with painted surfaces during the curing period.

Follow the product’s technical guidance before reattaching hardware and returning the cabinets to normal use.

Why choose natural paint for kitchen cabinets?

Our Water-Based Eggshell is formulated with a plant-based binder and real earth and mineral pigments, offering a durable, attractive finish for suitable interior woodwork and cabinetry.

Available in our full palette of colours, it allows you to create a kitchen scheme that complements everything from traditional joinery to contemporary interiors.

Ready to transform your kitchen?

Explore our natural paint colours and order a sample pot or A5 colour card to see how your chosen shades work alongside your cabinetry, worktops and flooring.

For guidance on preparation, primers and application, please consult our Water-Based Eggshell technical data sheet. Our Colour Consultants are also happy to help you find the right colours for your kitchen.