# Painting Over Stained Wood Cabinets & Painted Cabinets: How to Paint Cabinets Like a Pro - Absolute Home Services - / - Blog - /blog - Painting Over Stained Wood Cabinets & Painted Cabinets: How to Paint Cabinets Like a Pro ## Painting Over Stained Wood Cabinets & Painted Cabinets: How to Paint Cabinets Like a Pro Published May 19, 2023 Giving your kitchen a fresh, new look doesn't have to mean an expensive renovation. One cost-effective way to update the space is by painting your kitchen cabinets. This can dramatically change the appearance of your kitchen without breaking the bank. As [cabinet repair professionals serving the GTA](https://www.absolutehomeservices.ca/locations/mississauga-cabinet-repair-services), we at Absolute Home Services believe that with the right approach and some patience, you can transform your kitchen into a space you'll love spending time in. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps on how to prep and paint your cabinets, from selecting the right tools and materials to adding the perfect finishing touches. ## Equipment You Will Need to Paint Kitchen Cabinets Before you begin, make sure you have the following equipment: - Screwdriver or drill; - Sandpaper (120 to 220-grit); - Tack cloth or damp rag; - Painter's tape; - Paintbrushes or a paint sprayer; - Primer; - Paint; - Wood filler; - Degreaser or cleaning solution; - Drop cloth or plastic sheeting. ## Choosing the Right Paint Selecting the right paint can make all the difference in the outcome of your project. You can always ask for advice at the paint store, but consider the following options on top of that: ### Oil Or Latex Cabinet Paint? Oil-based paint offers a durable and smooth finish, but it can be challenging to work with due to longer drying times and strong fumes. Latex paint is water-based, making it easier to clean up and providing a low-odor option. However, it may not be as durable as oil-based paint. ### Brush or Spray Paint? A brush allows for better control over wet paint and is more affordable, but may leave brush strokes. A paint sprayer can provide a smoother, more even finish but requires more skill and can be messy. ## First Things to Do Before You Paint Kitchen Cabinets ### Assess Your Cabinet Doors & Hardware First, inspect your cabinets for any signs of damage, warping, or peeling. Make sure the structure is stable, and consider repairing or replacing any damaged parts before painting. Remove all hardware, such as handles, cabinet doors and drawers, and hinges; don’t forget to label each piece to make reassembly easier! ### Clean the Wood After a thorough cleaning and sanding, wipe down the wood with a tack cloth or damp rag to remove any sanding dust and debris. ### Fill Unwanted Holes, Dents, and Dings If your cabinets have any holes, dents, or dings, fill them with wood filler, then sand the area smoothly once the filler has dried. This will create an even surface for painting. If you’re worried you won’t get it right yourself, contact Absolute Home Services for help! ## Painting Over Stained Cabinets: A Step-by-Step Guide Wondering if you can paint over stained wood cabinets? The answer is yes! With proper preparation, you can successfully paint over stain and give your cabinets a fresh, new look. Follow these steps for painting kitchen cabinets to ensure a smooth and durable finish: ### Step 1: Sand the Wood Surface Before painting, sand the wood surface with 120-grit sandpaper to remove the glossy top finish coat, and roughen the surface. This will help the primer and paint adhere better to the wood. ### Step 2: Apply a Primer Choose a primer designed to cover stained wood, such as a stain-blocking or bonding primer. Apply a coat of primer to create a solid base for your paint. ### Step 3: Tidy Up the Surface Once the primer is dry, lightly sand the surface with 220-grit sandpaper for an even smoother finish. Wipe the wood with a tack cloth or damp rag to remove any dust. ### Step 4: Paint Your Cabinets Select the paint of your choice, and apply two coats, allowing each coat to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions. This will ensure complete coverage and a smooth finish. ### Step 5: Apply the Finish To protect your paint job and add durability, apply a clear sealer or topcoat. This will also enhance the look of your newly painted cabinets, ensuring a professional result that lasts. ## Repainting The Kitchen Cabinets: A Step-by-Step Guide Repainting your kitchen cabinets can be a cost-effective way to give your kitchen a fresh new look without having to replace all of your cabinets. With a little paint stick, a bit of elbow grease, and some patience, you can transform your kitchen in just a few simple steps. The main thing is to choose the right color that matches the [color of your home's interior](https://www.absolutehomeservices.ca/blog/how-to-choose-paint-colors-for-your-home-interior). In this guide, we will walk you through the process of repainting your kitchen cabinets step-by-step, so you can achieve a professional-looking finish that will last for years to come. ### Step 1. Stripping the Cabinetry If your cabinets have a glossy finish, lightly sand the surfaces with 120-grit sandpaper to help the primer and paint adhere better. Wipe the cabinets with a tack cloth or damp rag to remove any dust. ### Step 2. Applying Primer and Paint Before applying the final coat of paint, use a primer to ensure proper adhesion and coverage. Apply one to two coats of primer, allowing each coat to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions. Once the primer is dry, apply two coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next one. ### Step 3. Finishing Touches for a Professional Look To achieve a polished and professional look, consider these finishing touches after painting your cabinets: 1. **Reinstalling Cabinet Hardware**: Replace your old hardware with new, modern pieces that complement your freshly painted cabinets. Another option is to clean and polish your existing hardware to make it look like new. 2. **Adding Soft-Close Hinges**: Upgrade your hinges to soft-close ones for a high-end feel and to prevent cabinet door from slamming. 3. **Updating Interior Shelving**: While your cabinets are disassembled, take the opportunity to paint or line the interior shelves for a cohesive and finished appearance. 4. **Sealing the Paint**: Apply a clear sealer or topcoat to protect your paint job and ensure it lasts longer. This is especially important if you have chosen latex paint, as it may not be as durable as oil-based paint. 5. **Addressing the Details**: Pay attention to small details such as caulking gaps between the cabinet and wall or adding trim or molding for a more custom appearance. 6. **Installing Lighting**: Enhance the look of your newly painted cabinets by adding under-cabinet lighting or updating existing fixtures. By incorporating these finishing touches, you can elevate the appearance of your cabinet frames in your kitchen and achieve a professional, high-quality result. Decide whether you want a solid color or a faux finish, such as glazing or distressing. Both options can give your cabinets a custom, professional look. ## Leave Stripping & Painting Cabinets To The Professionals! Breathing new life into your kitchen cabinets can be a rewarding and cost-effective home improvement project. By following this guide and using the right materials, you can achieve near-professional-looking results that will enhance the overall look of your kitchen. If you need assistance or prefer to leave this potentially time consuming job to professionals, [contact Absolute Home Services](https://www.absolutehomeservices.ca/contact-us) for a free estimate. [Our experienced team](https://www.absolutehomeservices.ca/) is ready and eager to help you create the kitchen of your dreams! ## Ready To Start Your Project? Absolute Home Services is here to help! Whether you're in need of expert landscaping, handyman services, deck and fence work, or painting, our team has the skills and experience to get the job done right. Don't wait any longer to start creating the home you've always wanted. [Get a Free Estimate](https://www.absolutehomeservices.ca/free-quote) ## Revitalize Your Kitchen with Expert Cabinet Painting! Transform your kitchen with expertly painted cabinets. Reach out today and let Absolute Home Services bring your vision to life. Liz Jonasson CEO /liz-jonasson The founder of Absolute Home Services ## Video Guide: Expert Home Maintenance Tips - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rnltf0w5lfA - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-P3PW9_ZCL8 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ab3GT5NWtEI [Watch Our Videos](https://www.youtube.com/@AbsoluteHomeServices2025) ## Similar Posts [1] Painting [2] Interior Painting [3] Cabinet Painting - Other - Other - [3] Driveway Resurfacing - Driveway Resurfacing - [3] Walkway Installation - Walkway Installation - [3] Budget Planning - Budget Planning - [2] Exterior Planning - Exterior Planning - [2] Hardscaping - Hardscaping - [3] Yard Drainage - Yard Drainage - [3] Wood Fence Installation - Wood Fence Installation - [3] Vinyl Fence Installation - Vinyl Fence Installation - [3] Tree Planting - Tree Planting - [3] Surface Preparation - Surface Preparation - [3] Rotted Board Repair - Rotted Board Repair - [3] Popcorn Ceiling Removal - Popcorn Ceiling Removal - [3] Pool Deck Design - Pool Deck Design - [3] Outdoor Seating Areas - Outdoor Seating Areas - [3] Material Comparison - Material Comparison - [3] Landscape Design - Landscape Design - [3] House Painting - House Painting - [3] Gutter Cleaning - Gutter Cleaning - [3] Front Yard Landscaping - Front Yard Landscaping - [3] Fence Staining - Fence Staining - [3] Fence Repair - Fence Repair - [3] Fence Painting - Fence Painting - [3] Drywall Repair - Drywall Repair - [3] Drainage Solutions - Drainage Solutions - [3] Deck Staining - Deck Staining - [3] Costs - Costs - [3] Contractor Selection - Contractor Selection - [3] Composite Deck Installation - Composite Deck Installation - [3] Color Trends - Color Trends - [3] Ceiling Painting - Ceiling Painting - [3] Cabinet Painting - Cabinet Painting - [3] Backyard Landscaping - Backyard Landscaping - [3] Annual Deck Maintenance - Annual Deck Maintenance - [2] Patios - Patios - [2] Painting Services - Painting Services - [2] Outdoor Living - Outdoor Living - [2] Landscaping - Landscaping - [2] Interior Painting - Interior Painting - [2] Gutters & Drainage - Gutters & Drainage - [2] Fencing - Fencing - [2] Exterior Painting - Exterior Painting - [2] Deck Design - Deck Design - [2] Color Selection - Color Selection - [2] Deck Costs - Deck Costs - [2] Deck Maintenance - Deck Maintenance - [2] Deck Repair - Deck Repair - [2] Decking - Decking - [2] Planning - Planning - [2] Drywall & Plastering - Drywall & Plastering - [2] Cabinets - Cabinets - [1] Painting - Painting - [1] Exterior Remodeling - Exterior Remodeling - [1] Interior Remodeling - Interior Remodeling - by Liz Jonasson - 5/19/2023 - How to Stain a Deck for a Long-Lasting Finish: 5 Deck Staining Steps - Achieve a durable and stunning deck stain with these 5 essential steps. Protect and enhance your deck's beauty for years to come. - by Liz Jonasson - 5/19/2023 - Spring Yard Clean-Up Checklist: Top Spring Cleaning Tasks to Do - Get your yard ready for the new season with this comprehensive spring clean-up checklist. Ensure a fresh and rejuvenated outdoor space. - by Liz Jonasson - 5/19/2023 - 7 Best Landscaping Drainage Techniques: Yard & Lawn Drainage Solutions & Methods - Prevent water accumulation with these 7 proven landscaping drainage techniques. Ensure a well-drained yard and protect your landscape from water damage. --- Absolute Home Services — [https://www.absolutehomeservices.ca/blog/painting-over-stained-wood-cabinets-painted-cabinets-how-to-paint-cabinets-like-a-pro](https://www.absolutehomeservices.ca/blog/painting-over-stained-wood-cabinets-painted-cabinets-how-to-paint-cabinets-like-a-pro)