Although it may be tempting to get straight to painting your chosen color, priming is absolutely essential and shouldn't be skipped. Primer helps the paint adhere better, provides a smooth surface for painting, and prevents the paint from peeling or chipping down the road. Plus, it gives you an extra layer of protection against stains and water damage.

Just like the pros

We recommend using Benjamin Moore Stix High Adhesion primer or Sherwin-Williams Extreme Bond primer. This stuff is amazing and will make the finished result look and feel professional.

Prime time

Using a high-quality 2" brush, start by painting the primer on the frames. The 2" brush also works great to carefully paint under the countertop, around outlets, and above shoe molding.

Use a mini foam roller or mohair/velour roller naps for larger areas, like on the island and on the cabinet sides. Use a "W" motion in the direction of the grain for the best coverage. Smooth out any ridges left behind by using light pressure with a dry roller.

Depending on the difference between your starting color and your end color, you may need a second coat of primer to help ensure the starting color doesn't show through. Make sure to let the first coat dry completely before moving on.

If you opt for a second coat, sand down the surface with a fine grit sandpaper or scotch brite pad, careful not to sand through on the edges. Clean up any excess dust just like during the prep stage, and then apply the second coat of primer.

Pro Tip: it's always better to do 2 light coats instead of 1 thick coat.

What's on the inside counts

If the inside of your cabinets are in good shape, you don't need to paint them. But if you do choose to paint the insides, start at the back and work your way forward, saving the shelves for last.

Doors and drawers

Your doors and drawers receive the same treatment as the cabinets - clean, sand, and repairs - and then it's time to get them primed!

Cover your work surface with a drop cloth or plastic, and use painting tripods to keep the cabinet doors elevated slightly above the surface. This will help you get to the edges easier and with a bit less mess.

Starting on the backside of the door, use a 2" brush and start on the edges, working with the grain of the wood. Get into all the corners and crevices, being mindful not to lay the primer on too thick. Then, use a small foam roller to coat the larger surface area of the cabinet doors in the same "W" motion as before.

Wait for the back to dry completely before flipping it over and priming the front side.

When painting the drawers, don't paint the sides of the drawer, as this added layer of paint could interfere with the fit and make opening and closing the drawer challenging. Just like the cabinet doors, start on the edges, prime the back, and let it dry completely before doing the front of the drawer last.

If doing a second coat of primer (recommended), let the first coat dry, give it a light sand, wipe clean, then apply the second coat.

Rough start

If you notice any clumps or lumps after the primer has dried, give it a light sanding to smooth things over. Then a quick wipe down to remove the dust.

Supply Checklist

Benjamin Moore Stix High Adhesion primer or Sherwin-Williams Extreme Bond primer, 2” brush, mini foam roller or mohair/velour roller naps, paint tray + liner, paint stick (to stir primer), painting tripods, sandpaper or scotch brite pad (if doing 2 coats), tack cloth or microfiber rags (if doing 2 coats).

 

5. Paint and top coat