Painting bathroom cupboards can make a dramatic change for little money.
Bathrooms are among the most private of spaces--but they're also on public view whenever we have overnight guests or entertain. If your bathroom cupboards are looking a little shabby or tired, perk them up with a shiny new coat of paint. It's a job you can complete in a weekend and will enjoy for years to come.
Instructions
1. Purchase and primer. If your cupboards are made from knotty wood or have stains that might bleed through your new paint, buy a stain-suppressing or "blocking" primer. You'll have to choose between oil-based and latex paint. Latex paint is an attractive choice because it dries quickly, is mildew resistant, is low odor and cleans up with water. Choose a gloss or satin enamel paint for extra durability.
2. Prepare your work area by laying painting dropcloths or newspapers on the floor and any nearby furniture.
3. Remove all cupboard doors, drawers, shelves and hardware, using a screwdriver.
4. Clean all the surfaces you plan to paint. Most bathroom cupboards will come clean with a general household cleaner. For very dirty or greasy surfaces, you can use tri-sodium phosphate (TSP). TSP is a harsh chemical, so be sure to carefully follow all instructions for use. Rinse all surfaces with water and let them dry thoroughly.
5. Scrape off any loose or flaking paint, using a paint scraper.
6. Fill any deep scratches or dents with wood filler or putty, using a putty knife. Wipe any excess putty away. When the putty is dry, sand the surface smooth with fine sandpaper (180-grit).
7. Sand all surfaces you plan to paint. This will create a "toothed," or rough, surface so the primer and paint will adhere properly. Use 150- or 180-grit sandpaper.
8. Remove all dust from the cupboard surfaces using a tack cloth or damp rag.
9. Tape off any adjoining surfaces or fixtures that you don't want to be accidentally painted.
10. Prime the cupboard doors, shelves and drawers. Apply a thin layer of primer and allow it to dry.
11. Prime the inside of the cabinet, if you are planning to paint it. Allow it to dry.
12. Apply your first coat of paint to the doors, drawers and shelves. Use long, even brush strokes and apply a thin coat of paint. Re-coat once the first paint layer has fully dried.
13. Apply a coat of paint to the inside of the cupboards, if appropriate. Re-coat once dry.
14. Reattach cupboard doors and reinstall drawers, shelves and hardware once the paint has fully cured. Latex paint can take 14- to 30-days to cure fully. Cure times will be listed on your paint can.
Tags: , , cupboard doors, drawers shelves, your paint