Introduction

Kitchen cabinets are the centerpiece of any kitchen. They set the tone for the whole space and make a huge impact on the overall look and feel of the room. For many homeowners, 1940’s metal kitchen cabinets hold a special nostalgic quality. The sleek, retro styling of these vintage metal cabinets is a throwback to a classic age of design. However, over the decades, these cabinets can show their age through faded, chipped paint, rust, and other signs of wear. Thankfully, with some preparation and effort, it’s possible to give these timeless cabinets a fresh new look with a coat of paint.

Painting metal kitchen cabinets requires careful prep work and attention to detail. When done properly, freshly painted cabinets can help transform the entire kitchen into a bright and revived space. The process does take some elbow grease, but the end results are well worth it. This guide will walk through all the steps needed to paint 1940’s metal kitchen cabinets and help you achieve a flawless, renewed finish.

Supplies Needed

Before starting any painting project, it’s important to gather all the necessary supplies. Having the right tools and materials on hand will make the process go much smoother. Here is a list of what you’ll need to paint 1940’s metal kitchen cabinets:

• Paint sprayer – For painting metal cabinets, a paint sprayer is strongly recommended over brushes or rollers. Sprayers allow you to apply thin, even coats across broad surfaces. Look for a sprayer that has adjustable pressure and nozzle settings.
• Paint – For metal cabinets, oil-based or enamel paints are best. They adhere better and provide a more durable finish. Opt for satin, semi-gloss or high-gloss sheens.
• Primer – A quality metal primer will provide extra adhesion on slick metal surfaces. Look for a rust-inhibiting primer made specifically for metal.
• Sandpaper – Coarse 80-120 grit sandpaper removes old paint and rust. 220-400 grit smoothes surfaces between coats.
• TSP substitute – Used for cleaning and deglossing cabinets prior to painting. TSP substitute removes grease, wax and residues.
• Rags & tack cloth – For wiping down cabinets between steps. A tack cloth picks up dust right before painting.
• Painter’s tape – For masking off edges and surfaces you don’t want painted. Use high quality tape that won’t peel off existing paint.
• Drop cloths – Sheets of canvas or plastic to protect floors and countertops from drips and overspray.
• Paint thinner – For cleaning spray equipment after use. Mineral spirits work for oil-based paints.

The right supplies allow you to prep, paint and clean up properly as you revive your vintage metal cabinets. Investing in quality tools helps ensure the new paint job lasts for years.

Preparing the Cabinets

Thorough prep work is absolutely essential before painting metal kitchen cabinets. Taking time to properly clean, sand and prime the cabinets will allow the new paint to adhere and look its best. Rushing through or skipping prep steps can lead to peeling, chipping or uneven paint down the road.

Here are the key steps to prepare 1940’s metal kitchen cabinets for new paint:

1. Empty the Cabinets

The very first thing to do is completely empty out the cabinets. Take out all dishes, food items, shelves and hardware. This gives you full access to all cabinet surfaces. Set aside all removable hardware and label items so you can easily reinstall them later.

2. Clean Surfaces

Give all cabinet surfaces a thorough cleaning using a degreasing agent like TSP substitute. This removes built-up grease, dirt and residue so paint can properly adhere. Dip a rag in the TSP solution and scrub down all interior and exterior surfaces. Then rinse cabinets with clean water and let dry fully.

3. Sand Down Surfaces

Go over all cabinet surfaces with coarse 80-120 grit sandpaper. This roughs up the existing paint and helps the new coat bind better. Pay special attention to any areas of peeling or chipping paint and make sure to sand them smooth. Thoroughly sand any rust spots down to the bare metal.

4. Remove Rust & Prime Bare Spots

For any exposed bare metal, take extra steps to prevent future rust. Wipe these areas down with a cleaner like Krud Kutter to etch the metal. Then apply a rust-inhibiting primer made specifically for metal. Allow primer to dry fully before general priming.

5. Apply Primer

Once cabinets are prepped, apply a quality metal primer to all surfaces. Fully priming metal kitchen cabinets helps the paint bond tightly and prevents future rust. Use steady back-and-forth motions with the sprayer about 6-8 inches from the surface. Allow primer to dry overnight before sanding.

6. Lightly Sand Primer

Use 220-400 grit sandpaper to lightly sand all areas primed. This smooths away any drips or uneven texture so the final paint coat looks its best. Thoroughly wipe sanded surfaces clean using a tack cloth. Cabinets are now ready for topcoat paint.

Thorough prep removes old failing paint, cleans surfaces for better adhesion, inhibits rust and gives paint an optimal surface for long-lasting durability.

Painting Process

With 1940’s metal kitchen cabinets prepped and primed, now the fun part begins – applying fresh new paint! Follow these tips for success painting metal kitchen cabinets:

1. Set Up Properly

Clear the kitchen workspace and cover/mask any surfaces not being painted. Place drop cloths below. Give cabinets 2-3” clearance on all sides to allow for spraying. Set up paint sprayer according to manufacturer instructions. Insert correct nozzle and adjust to recommended PSI for type of paint.

2. Apply Paint in Thin Coats

The key with spray paint is applying multiple thin coats rather than one thick coat. Thick paint drips and doesn’t adhere as well. Position sprayer 6-8” from cabinets and spray in steady back & forth motions, overlapping passes slightly. Apply 2-3 thin coats this way, allowing proper dry time between coats.

3. Paint Inside Cabinets First

Start painting the cabinet interiors first before moving to exterior surfaces. This allows you to get great coverage on hard-to-reach interior corners. Then touch up the insides after exterior paint is applied.

4. Maintain Proper Spray Distance

Holding the paint sprayer too close can lead to drips and uneven coats. Holding it too far reduces control and oversprays paint. Maintain the ideal 6-8” distance for smooth coverage. Use spray painter’s pole extensions for high or hard-to-reach spots.

5. Paint Doors & Drawers Separately

Remove all cabinet doors and drawers to make painting easier. Use painter’s tape to mark door faces from edges. Paint door fronts and sides separately for best coverage. Let doors dry fully before rehanging.

6. Check Coverage & Apply Additional Coats

Examine cabinets closely after each coat. Look for any thin spots and apply an additional coat as needed. Two to three coats generally provides good coverage, but add more if undercoated spots show through. Sand lightly and tack wipe between coats.

7. Avoid Runs & Drips

Applying paint too thickly results in unsightly drips and runs. To fix, wait until drip dries fully, then sand smooth before applying next coat. Maintain proper spray distance and motion to prevent drips in future coats.

8. Allow Proper Dry Times

Oil-based cabinet paints take longer to dry than latex. Check paint can labels and allow for longer dry times between coats. Rushing the process can ruin paint job. Be patient for best results.

Carefully following these painting best practices helps ensure your vintage metal cabinets get a smooth, professional-looking and long-lasting finish.

Achieving Different Finishes

One of the great benefits of spray painting kitchen cabinets is you can choose different paint sheens to match any style. Higher gloss finishes have more shine and depth, while lower sheens have subtle elegance. Consider your overall kitchen decor when choosing a finish.

Satin Finish

A satin sheen has a smooth, low-lustre finish. It’s slightly glossy but doesn’t have a shiny look. Satin works well for a soft, understated style in both traditional and modern kitchens. It hides surface imperfections better than high-gloss.

Semi-Gloss Finish

Semi-gloss has a medium reflectiveness, imparting more shine than satin. It’s a popular choice for cabinets, as it highlights wood grain details. The sleek shine gives cabinets vibrancy. It’s easy to clean but shows more surface defects.

High-Gloss Finish

A high-gloss finish provides maximum light reflection. It has a mirror-like sheen that dramatically improves depth and richness of color. High-gloss looks bold and intense, lending a dramatic flair. Fully smooth surfaces are essential to avoid detracting gloss irregularities.

The finish you choose makes a big impact on the overall kitchen style. Consider the setting and your personal tastes when deciding on satin, semi-gloss or high-gloss sheen.

Achieving a Flawless Finish

Achieving a truly professional, flawless paint finish on kitchen cabinets requires care and precision. Here are some tips to help your painted metal cabinets look their absolute best:

• Maintain a dust-free workspace – Dust particles can stick to drying paint and create blemishes. Keep the work area clean.
• Use high quality painter’s tape – Low tack tape can peel off existing paint when removed. Use premium tapes only.
• Check for drips during drying time – Catch any developing drips and smooth them out before paint dries fully.
• Sand between coats – Light 320-400 grit sanding ensures perfectly smooth finish.
• Clean sprayer nozzles frequently – Clogs and dried paint can spatter and ruin the finish.
• Inspect under lighting – What looks good under regular light may show flaws under bright lighting.
• Take your time – Rushing leads to drips, thin coats and mistakes. Allowing proper dry times is essential.
• Apply finish coat carefully – The final coat is the one that matters most. Apply slowly and methodically.

The small details make all the difference in achieving a truly flawless, professional paint job that makes your cabinets look their very best.

Cleaning Up Properly

Once your cabinets have received their vibrant new coats of paint, it’s important to properly clean up the work area and paint equipment. Follow these steps:

• Wipe down countertops, floors, walls to remove overspray and drips. For oil-based paints, use mineral spirits on a rag.
• Remove all tape and drop cloths. Check surfaces for any tape residue and remove.
• Thoroughly clean paint sprayer following manufacturer’s directions. Flush all hoses, nozzles, and filters to remove paint sediment.
• Place used rags and other waste in sealed containers. Allow rags to fully dry as they can self ignite when soaked with paint.
• Properly store any leftover paint. Seal lid tightly and place in an area where paint won’t freeze.
• Ventilate kitchen well to allow paint fumes to fully dissipate. Run fans, open windows.

Proper cleanup protects your surfaces, keeps paint equipment in good working order, and removes all hazardous materials. Leaving the workspace clean allows you to enjoy your newly painted cabinets.

Conclusion

Giving worn, faded metal kitchen cabinets from the 1940’s a fresh coat of paint can work wonders in revitalizing the look and feel of your entire kitchen. By following the steps in this guide, you can achieve professional-level results and renewed cabinets that will hold up for many years to come. The process requires diligent preparation, care during painting, proper dry times, and attention to details. While it does take some effort, restored vintage metal cabinets provide timeless beauty and quality that enhances any home. With your newly painted cabinets, your kitchen will once again be the pride of your household.

Summary of Key Points:

• Use a quality metal primer to help paint adhere properly to slick metal surfaces
• Completely empty cabinets and thoroughly clean all surfaces prior to painting
• Sand well to rough up existing paint so the new coat can bind tightly
• Apply multiple thin coats of paint using a paint sprayer at the ideal distance
• Paint cabinet interiors first, then exteriors for most effective coverage
• Allow proper dry times between coats as specified by paint manufacturer
• Consider the amount of shine you desire when choosing satin, semi-gloss or high-gloss paint
• Carefully check for drips and flaws under bright light to achieve flawless results
• Clean spray equipment thoroughly after painting to maintain good working condition

Frequently Asked Questions About Painting 1940’s Metal Kitchen Cabinets

What type of paint should I use?

For painting metal kitchen cabinets, an oil-based enamel, alkyd, or urethane paint works best. These paints adhere tightly and provide a durable, scratch-resistant finish. Opt for satin, semi-gloss, or high-gloss sheen.

Do I need to use primer?

Yes, you should always use a primer when painting metal cabinets. Quality metal primer helps paint properly adhere to slick metal surfaces. Make sure to use a rust-inhibiting primer formulated specifically for metal.

How should I clean the cabinets beforehand?

Thoroughly clean all cabinet surfaces using a degreasing agent like TSP substitute to remove dirt, residue and oils. Rinse well and let dry fully before sanding or priming. Proper cleaning allows for the best paint adhesion.

What grit sandpaper should be used?

Use coarse 80-120 grit sandpaper to scuff up existing paint for better adhesion. Then smooth primed surfaces with 220-400 grit paper between coats. Lightly sand for a flawless finish.

How long does it take for the paint to dry?

Oil-based cabinet paints take much longer to dry than latex paints. Check your paint labels and allow for longer dry times between coats. This prevents drips, runs and other problems.

Should cabinets be painted with a brush or sprayer?

For metal kitchen cabinets, a paint sprayer is strongly recommended as it atomizes paint into a fine mist that provides a perfectly smooth finish. Take proper precautions for overspray and drips.

What causes brush marks in the paint?

Applying paint too thickly with a brush or roller can leave unsightly brush marks once dry. Always use a sprayer and apply paint in thin, even coats. Back-brush gently only as needed.

How do I fix paint drips or runs?

Let the drip fully dry, then sand smooth with 400 grit paper. Wipe clean and reapply paint properly in smooth, thin coats while maintaining the correct sprayer distance.

Should I remove doors and drawers before painting?

Yes, remove all doors, drawers, and hardware prior to painting. This allows you to fully access all cabinet surfaces and achieve the most uniform coverage.

Conclusion

1940’s metal kitchen cabinets hold vintage charm but often show their age over the decades. With proper preparation, priming and painting technique, these timeless cabinets can be revived into beautiful focal points that provide many more years of service. This comprehensive guide outlines all the steps involved to achieve stunning results through painting. Follow these best practices and recommendations for successfully transforming the look of your retro metal cabinets with a fresh coat of durable, protective paint in the sheen of your choice. With a little elbow grease, you can reinvigorate your kitchen and restore the handsome, nostalgic quality of antique 1940’s metal cabinets.