Decorating metal kitchen cabinets can transform the look of your kitchen while adding style and personality. With some thoughtful planning and clever techniques, you can create an attractive, inviting space. Here are some tips for decorating metal kitchen cabinets.
Remove Grease and Grime
Before decorating, it’s important to thoroughly clean the cabinets. Built-up grease and grime will prevent paints and glazes from properly adhering. Clean cabinets with a degreasing cleaner made for kitchen use. Rinse and allow to fully dry before attempting to decorate.
Sand Down Surfaces
Lightly sanding metal cabinets gives paints and glazes a surface to grip onto. Use fine grit sandpaper (220 grit or higher) to gently scuff the cabinets. Pay close attention to any scratched or damaged areas. Wipe away dust with a tack cloth after sanding.
Prime Cabinets
Applying primer is a must before painting metal cabinets. Primers allow topcoats to bond properly. Look for a metal primer made specifically for use on galvanized steel, aluminum and other smooth metals. Apply in thin, even coats allowing proper drying time between coats.
Paint Cabinets
There are several effective options for painting metal kitchen cabinets:
- Enamel paint – Offered in gloss or satin finishes, enamel paints provide a smooth, durable coating.
- Acrylic paint – Dries fast and is easy to apply. Best for smaller metal projects.
- Epoxy paint – Extremely durable two-part paint system perfect for high-traffic areas like kitchens.
No matter the type, use thin applications of paint. Thick coats tend to bubble and crack. Allow proper drying times between coats.
Add Color with Glazes
Glazes are lightly colored transparent finishes that add subtle hues over a base coat of paint. They provide depth and dimension. Mix glaze colors to create custom tints. Softly blend the glaze over the base paint using a paintbrush or rag. Seal with a clear topcoat.
Consider Tin Ceiling Tiles
Tin ceiling tiles lend a retro-chic vibe to kitchens. Self-adhesive tin tiles easily apply to cabinet surfaces. Choose solid colors or stylish patterns. Use tin tiles sparingly on select areas or cover entire cabinet surfaces.
Add Molding for Detail
Affix trim pieces to cabinet frames to add architectural detail. Look for decorative moldings made from polyurethane or polystyrene that offer flexibility and long-lasting durability. Self-adhesive types are ideal for quick and easy application.
Utilize Contact Paper
Contact paper offers an inexpensive and temporary way to change the look of metal cabinets. Choose patterns like faux wood grain, marble, stone, or metallics. Carefully measure and cut contact paper to fit cabinet surfaces. Smooth onto cabinets removing bubbles and wrinkles.
Consider Chalkboard Paint
Transform cabinet fronts into handy chalkboard space. Use chalkboard paint or turn standard latex paint into chalkboard paint by adding unsanded tile grout. Write grocery lists, post recipes, leave messages, or allow kids to create colorful artwork.
Decorating metal kitchen cabinets opens up many possibilities. With preparation and creativity, you can easily customize your space to match your personal style.
Frequently Asked Questions About Decorating Metal Kitchen Cabinets
Can I paint over the existing finish on metal cabinets?
Yes, metal cabinets can be painted but the surface needs proper preparation first. Clean with a degreaser, lightly sand, and apply a bonding primer before painting. Always refer to the paint manufacturer’s specific instructions.
What special considerations are there for painting aluminum cabinets?
Aluminum has a smoother surface than steel so proper sanding and priming is a must. Use sandpaper with 220-400 grit. Wipe any residue with tack cloth. Apply 2-3 thin coats of high adhesion primer before painting.
How do I get a smooth finish when painting metal cabinets?
Use thin coats of quality primer and paint, allowing proper drying time between coats. Sand lightly with fine sandpaper between coats to smooth the surface. Finish with a high-gloss enamel for the smoothest result.
Should I remove cabinet doors and drawers before painting?
It’s best to remove doors, handles, and drawers prior to painting or glazing cabinets. This allows for easier access to all cabinet surfaces and prevents paint buildup in hardware joints. Reinstall hardware after the paint has fully cured.
Can I apply contact paper directly over existing cabinet surfaces?
Lightly sanding provides better adhesion for contact paper applied directly to cabinet surfaces. Clean thoroughly and wipe away any residue that could prevent the contact paper from sticking. Apply carefully, smoothing out all bubbles and wrinkles.
How do I prevent glaze or paint from rubbing off painted cabinets?
Properly preparing surfaces and using compatible primer and paint ensures best adhesion. Once fully cured, apply a clear polyurethane over painted finishes. Use satin or semi-gloss clear coats on cabinets for added protection.
Should I decorate the interior of cabinets as well as the exterior?
The interiors can be painted, wallpapered, or contact papered to match the outer decor if desired. Just be aware that untinted clear coats are best for interiors since pigments may bleed into food over time.
Decorating metal kitchen cabinets brings personality into the heart of the home. With so many options for customizable and budget-friendly makeovers, you can easily transform the look of your kitchen.
Conclusion
Updating metal kitchen cabinets provides an opportunity to add color, texture, and interest to your kitchen. Preparing surfaces properly and selecting appropriate paints, glazes, tiles and paper finishes allows for a successful transformation. Decorative accents like molding, chalkboard paint, or contact paper offer inexpensive and creative ways to make cabinets unique. Use these tips to turn plain metal cabinets into a focal point that reflects your personal style.