Refitting a kitchen can be costly and stressful, but if you’re happy with the layout and your cabinets are sound, why not consider painting what you’ve got? If you do the work yourself, there may even be money spare to splash out on new handles or worktops.

How to paint kitchen cabinets
You’re less prone to runs and drips if you paint your doors on a flat surface. Lack space or can’t remove them? Just cover the hinges with masking tape, taking care to conceal all the metalwork and paint in situ. Always remove the handles, and put dust sheets or newspaper on the floor to protect it.

Do I need to prep them?
Cleaning is essential to remove kitchen grime. Use a specialist degreaser like Zep Commercial All Purpose Cleaner & Degreaser if needed. Next, key the surface with a light sandpaper – 150-250 grit is fine – to help the paint grip. Wipe dust 
off with a damp cloth and allow to dry.

How about primer?
Primers create a base for paint, and stop knots showing through. Pick a primer suited to the surface you’re painting, or go for a universal primer like Ronseal’s One Coat All-Surface Primer and Undercoat. Wood primer is only for bare, unpainted wood. Some furniture-specific paints don’t require primer, this will be clearly stated on the tin.

What paint should I use?
It depends on the door type and your desired finish. On laminates, the safest option is to buy a specialist multipurpose paint designed for wood, melamine and MDF. Any eggshell or interior wood paint will work on wooden or painted kitchen doors. Chalk paints are suitable for kitchen units, but you’ll usually need to seal the top coat with wax or varnish.

Take your time this is no afternoon makeover project. It’s tempting to slap the paint on thickly and quickly but you’ll regret it when the slightest scuff chips 
a whole chunk of paint off. Allow at least five to seven days to build up the paint 
in thin layers, lightly sanding and wiping off dust between coats. Allow a minimum of four hours’ drying time for primer, and 24 hours for all other coats. Expect to apply at least two coats of colour.