Time
3+ Days
Cost
High
Difficulty
Intermediate
  1. 1

    Remove Doors and Hardware

    First, remove the cabinet doors and all the hardware.

  2. 2

    Prep, Sand* + Prime

    After removing the hardware, we recommend that the cabinets be thoroughly cleaned with a good cleaner degreaser to remove all grease and oils that normally buildup on kitchen cabinetry over time. Once cleaned, we recommend applying a test sample of Extreme Bond Primer in an inconspicuous area.


    Testing - after preparing the surface, apply a test area of Extreme Bond, allow to dry properly and test for adhesion. Because of the exceptional adhesion of this product, sanding may not be necessary for most clean, paintable surfaces.


    Once you have established good bonding/adhesion, you can prime the entire surface. Keep in mind that any surface prep short of clean, dry & dull or adhesion is poor, may compromise the service length of the system used. A quality wood filler/putty should be used to patch holes or imperfections in the surface.

    Tip: Extreme Bond Primer is recommended because of its excellent adhesion, cover and ease of use.

  3. 3

    Sand Again

    Let the primer dry at least 24 hours and sand again using a "very fine" grit sandpaper. Gently smooth out the primer coat, then wipe the primed cabinets with a damp cloth to remove any debris before applying your first coat of paint.

  4. 4

    Apply First Coat

    Using a 1" or a 1½" angled brush, first apply paint to the recessed or detailed areas of the cabinet door. Avoid getting brush marks on the flatter and smoother areas. Next, immediately paint the remaining flat areas of the door using a mini roller. Gently roll over any overlapping brush marks or paint drips to smooth the surface.

    Tip: Emerald® Urethane Trim Enamel, Gloss, Semi-Gloss or Satin Sheen is a perfect choice for top coat paint because it has excellent flow and leveling characteristics, which means a smooth and durable finish on cabinets, doors and trim. As for brushes and rollers, the Purdy® ClearCut® brush and White Dove™ Jumbo roller are recommended.

  5. 5

    Apply Second Coat

    Let your first coat dry for about 24-48 hours, then apply a second coat in the same manner. Again, wait 24-48 hours and once the second coat is dry, you can reinstall your existing hardware, or add new hardware to complete the makeover.

Project Overview

Open up the possibilities of your kitchen cabinets. Updating your kitchen cabinets has never been easier with Sherwin-Williams Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel. Get started with these easy-to-follow instructions!

Supplies For This Project

Colors We Used

  • Get started on this transformation. Place an order for curbside pickup when you sign in or sign up for PaintPerks®.

    Shop now
Sue Wadden

 

Sue Wadden, Sherwin-Williams' Director of Color Marketing, says…

"Right now, painted cabinets are the trend – specifically whites and grays. Here are some timeless choices for cabinet colors…"

Shop Products

Discover More