Clean and Prepare the Cabinets
Before decorating, it’s important to thoroughly clean the metal cabinets inside and out. Use a degreasing cleaning solution and scrub away any grime or residues. Rinse and let dry completely. Also address any scratches, chips, or flaws in the metal finish. Fill small dents with metal filler, sand them smooth, and repaint if needed. Proper prep ensures decorations adhere well.
Add New Hardware
One of the easiest ways to update metal cabinets is by replacing the old hardware. Swapping out tired knobs and pulls for new ones can give cabinets a modern or vintage feel. Opt for brushed nickel or oil-rubbed bronze hardware for a contemporary look, or go for crystal, porcelain, or glass knobs for a touch of elegance. Make sure the scale is right – oversized hardware looks best on larger cabinets.
Install Lighting
Lighting inside or around the cabinets creates brilliant display options. LED puck lights, strip lighting, or even neon tubes under cabinets cast a glow and highlight decor. For glass-front cabinets, install lighting inside to illuminate and showcase favorite dishware. Sconces or directional lighting above the cabinets also help.
Add Fresh Coat of Paint
Painting metal cabinets transforms their look instantly. First, remove doors and hardware. Clean surfaces thoroughly and lightly sand to rough up the finish. Apply 2-3 thin coats of cabinet-appropriate enamel spray paint for a smooth, durable finish. Pick a color that complements your overall kitchen or bath design. Beyond basic colors, try a metallic paint for a glamorous accent.
Display Decorative Accents
Once the cabinets are spiffed up, it’s time to style and decorate the interiors. Displaying collections creatively personalizes the space. For kitchens, mount a hanging pot rack inside an upper cabinet. Or arrange vintage cookie jars or colorful dishes on open shelves. In bathrooms, neatly organize rolled towels, soaps, and candles. Accent with baskets, trays, and decorative bowls.
Add Glass Doors
Installing glass-paneled doors provide both display and protection for cabinet contents. They maintain visibility while keeping out dust. For open shelving, secure glass panels along the front edge to prevent items from falling. Or insert glass shelves to securely stagger collectibles. Glass instantly makes metal cabinets feel less utilitarian.
Use Removable Decals and Contact Paper
Removable vinyl decals and contact paper let you customize cabinets without permanent changes. Decals come in every style from florals to geometrics. Apply them to cabinet doors or sides for pops of color and texture. Use white or colored contact paper to cover counters for a faux stone or marble look. Both are easy DIY upgrades.
Questions and Answers
How do I know what hardware will fit my cabinets?
- Take one of your existing knobs or pulls to the hardware store. The staff can help you find replacements in the same screw size and placement. Cabinet hardware is standardized, but measuring yours ensures an accurate fit.
What kind of paint is best for metal cabinets?
- Enamel spray paint formulated specifically for metal surfaces works best. It provides maximum adhesion and a hard, scratch-resistant finish that stands up to cleaning. Avoid latex or oil-based paints that won’t adhere well.
Should I remove doors and drawers before painting cabinets?
- Yes, you should remove all hardware and doors to paint cabinets thoroughly. Taking them off enables spraying or brushing paint into all crevices and corners for a seamless finished look. Lay doors on sawhorses to paint.
What is the most cost effective way to update cabinets?
- Replacing the hardware is typically the most budget-friendly option for a cabinet makeover. New knobs and pulls can completely change the look but are relatively inexpensive to buy. Painting is another low-cost option for refreshing cabinets.
How do I decorate glass-front cabinets?
- Install lighting inside glass cabinets to highlight contents. Then artfully arrange dishes, collectibles, or pantry items by category or color. Use risers, dividers, or containers to stagger items for better visibility. Keep things dust-free with regular cleaning.
Can I hang wallpaper inside cabinets?
- Yes, using removable wallpaper or self-adhesive wallpaper inside cabinets is a great option. Just clean the surfaces thoroughly before application. Trim wallpaper to fit the back panel and shelf edges for a seamless look. Change patterns whenever you want easily.
Conclusion
Decorating metal cabinets makes them eye-catching features in any room. With imagination and a few simple upgrades like new hardware, strategic lighting, freshly painted finishes, and decorative accents, you can transform the look completely. The results will be stunning cabinets that reflect your personal style.