Paint Kitchen Walls Or Cabinets First: My Personal Experience And Tips

When I decided to give my kitchen a makeover, I was faced with a dilemma – should I paint the walls or cabinets first? I did some research and asked for advice, and eventually came up with a plan that worked for me. In this article, I will share my experience and tips on this topic.

Why is the Order of Painting Important?

The order in which you paint your kitchen walls and cabinets can affect the overall look and feel of the space. If you paint the walls first, you may end up damaging the freshly painted surface when you paint the cabinets. On the other hand, if you paint the cabinets first, you may find it harder to paint around them and end up with uneven wall colors.

Step-by-Step Guide: Paint Kitchen Walls Or Cabinets First

Based on my personal experience and research, here’s a step-by-step guide for painting your kitchen walls and cabinets:

Remove all cabinet doors and hardware, and label them accordingly.
Clean and sand the cabinets to get rid of any dirt, grease, or old paint.
Apply a primer to the cabinets, and let it dry completely.
Paint the cabinets with your desired color, and let it dry.
Once the cabinets are done, cover them with plastic or paper to protect them from wall paint.
Clean and prep the walls, and apply painter’s tape to the edges and corners.
Apply a primer to the walls, and let it dry completely.
Paint the walls with your desired color, and let it dry.
Remove the tape and coverings from the cabinets, and reattach the doors and hardware.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas: Paint Kitchen Walls Or Cabinets First

Here are some tips and ideas to keep in mind when painting your kitchen walls and cabinets:

Choose a color scheme that complements your cabinets and countertops.
Use high-quality paint and tools for a professional-looking finish.
Don’t rush the process – allow each coat of paint to dry completely before applying the next one.
Consider adding a glaze or distressing the cabinets for a unique look.
Use a paint sprayer for a smoother finish on cabinets.
Paint the inside of the cabinets to match the exterior for a cohesive look.
Use a neutral color for the walls to make the cabinets stand out.
Consider painting the upper cabinets a different color than the lower ones for a modern look.
Use a gloss or semi-gloss finish for cabinets to make them easier to clean.
Get inspiration from design blogs and magazines for ideas on color schemes and finishes.

Pros and Cons: Paint Kitchen Walls Or Cabinets First

Here are some pros and cons to consider when deciding whether to paint your kitchen walls or cabinets first:

Pros:

Painting the cabinets first allows you to see the new color in the space and make adjustments before painting the walls.
Painting the walls first ensures that you don’t damage the freshly painted surface when painting the cabinets.
If you’re only painting the cabinets, you don’t have to worry about protecting the walls from paint splatters.

Cons:

If you paint the cabinets first, you may find it harder to paint around them and end up with uneven wall colors.
If you paint the walls first, you may accidentally damage the surface when painting the cabinets.
If you’re painting both the walls and cabinets, the process may take longer and require more prep work.

My Personal Review and Suggestion: Paint Kitchen Walls Or Cabinets First

Based on my experience, I would suggest painting the cabinets first and then the walls. This allows you to see the new color in the space, make adjustments if necessary, and protect the walls from accidental damage. However, if you’re only painting the walls or cabinets, you can skip this step and focus on the surface you’re painting.

Question & Answer and FAQs

Q: Do I need to sand and prime the walls before painting them?
A: It depends on the condition of the walls and the type of paint you’re using. If the walls are in good condition and you’re using a paint-and-primer-in-one product, you may be able to skip this step. However, if the walls are rough or have old paint, it’s best to sand and prime them before painting.
Q: Can I use the same paint for the walls and cabinets?
A: Yes, you can use the same paint for both surfaces as long as it’s suitable for the material and finish you’re painting. However, you may want to use a gloss or semi-gloss finish for cabinets and a matte or eggshell finish for walls.
Q: How long does it take to paint kitchen cabinets?
A: It depends on the size of your kitchen, the number of cabinets, and the type of paint you’re using. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few days to a week to complete the process.