Can I Paint Metal Cabinet Hardware?

Painting metal cabinet hardware is a great way to update the look of your kitchen or bathroom without a full renovation. With some preparation and the right paint, you can easily transform dated brass, chrome, or other metallic hardware into a fresh new look. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to paint metal cabinet hardware.

Should You Paint Metal Cabinet Hardware?

Painting metal hardware is an affordable DIY project that allows you to:

• Update the look – Painting hardware is an easy way to update the style of your cabinets to on-trend brushed nickel, matte black, brass, or any other color you like. This small change can make your kitchen or bathroom feel brand new.
• Match your decor – Paint the hardware to match your fixtures, backsplash, countertops, or wall color. Matching hardware ties the whole room together.
• Cover worn finishes – Painting can hide chips, tarnish, and wear on old hardware. It’s a quick fix to make hardware look new again without replacing.
• Express your personality – Paint the hardware a fun, bold color like emerald or cobalt to add an unexpected pop of color.

The only downside is that painted hardware is not as durable as raw metal and the paint may chip over time. But it’s easy to touch up or repaint when needed.

How to Prepare Metal Hardware for Painting

Proper preparation is crucial for getting a smooth, long-lasting paint finish on metal hardware. Follow these steps:

Remove the Hardware

Use a screwdriver to remove all hardware pieces like knobs, pulls, and hinges from cabinet doors and drawers. Set the hardware on a protected work surface.

Clean the Hardware

Wash hardware in warm, soapy water to remove dirt, oil, and residue. Dry thoroughly.

Use a scrub pad to remove any loose paint or rust. Wipe clean.

Degrease the hardware with rubbing alcohol to help the paint adhere.

Lightly Sand the Hardware

Lightly scuff metal hardware with fine grit sandpaper. This helps the paint grip the surface.

Focus on any areas with glossy or shiny finishes. Be careful not to overly scratch polished finishes.

Wipe hardware with a tack cloth after sanding to remove dust.

Use Primer

It’s best to use a primer when painting metal to help the topcoat of paint stick and prevent future rusting.

Spray paint with built-in primer or a separate metal primer spray paint both work well. Let the primer fully dry before painting.

Selecting the Right Paint for Hardware

The type of paint you use impacts the finished look and durability. Consider these options:

• Spray paint – This is the easiest type of paint to use on small hardware pieces like knobs and hinges. Look for spray paint formulated for metal that provides good adhesion and a smooth finish.
• Enamel paint – For a glossy, durable finish, use oil-based enamel paint. It provides a glass-like surface that hardens fully over 7-10 days.
• Acrylic craft paint – If you want a matte finish or to paint with bold colors, acrylic craft paint works well. You’ll need to apply a sealant like polyurethane over it for protection.
• Chalk paint – This provides a trendy matte chalk-painted look. Apply wax over it for light distressing.
• Metallic paint – Choose metallic spray paint for a shiny brass, bronze, nickel, or copper finish.

How to Paint Metal Cabinet Hardware

Follow these steps for flawless painted hardware:

1. Lay Out Newspaper

Cover your work surface with newspaper to protect it from drips and overspray. Place the disassembled hardware pieces on the paper.

2. Apply Primer

For metal hardware, primer helps prevent future rust and makes paint stick. Spray the primer over the entire surface and edges of each hardware piece. Allow to fully dry.

3. Apply Paint

Follow the instructions on your selected paint for best application and drying time. In general:

• Shake the paint can for 1 minute before spraying.
• Hold 10-12 inches from the hardware when spraying.
• Use light, even coats rather than one thick coat.
• Let dry fully between coats.
• Apply at least 2 coats or more until you achieve the desired coverage and color intensity.

4. Add Clear Coat (Optional)

For added protection, apply 1-2 coats of a clear acrylic sealer spray over the final paint layer. Let dry fully between coats.

5. Reinstall the Painted Hardware

Once fully dry, mount the newly painted hardware back onto the cabinets using a screwdriver. Admire your updated cabinets!

Painting Metal Hardware Maintenance Tips

• Allow the paint to cure fully for at least 5-7 days before use. Oil-based enamel takes even longer to harden completely.
• Hand-wash painted hardware to clean. Avoid using harsh scrub pads or abrasive cleaners which can chip the paint.
• Reapply paint as needed if the finish gets scratched or damaged over time. Lightly sand before repainting.
• For brass and bronze finishes, apply a metal sealant spray yearly to prevent tarnishing and maintain the metallic appearance.

Painting metal cabinet hardware like knobs, pulls, and hinges is an easy DIY update. With proper preparation, paint selection, and application, you can give your cabinets a quick facelift. Take your time with the process for furniture-like beauty that will last.

Frequently Asked Questions About Painting Metal Hardware

Can I use spray paint to paint hardware?

Yes, spray paint formulated specifically for metal works great for painting hardware. Look for paint that provides maximum rust prevention, adhesion to metal, and durability.

What kind of primer should I use?

A primer made for metal is best for hardware. It blocks rust and helps paint stick. All-in-one spray paint and primer products are also convenient options.

How do I get a smooth finish on painted hardware?

Apply light coats, avoid running or dripping, and use fine grit sandpaper to smooth out any brush marks. Finishing with a clear coat helps too.

What paint sheen should I use – gloss, satin, or matte?

Gloss and satin enamels are most durable for high-use hardware. Matte is trendy but can show marks more easily. Satin is a good compromise with some shine but not too glossy.

Can I use chalk paint on hardware?

Yes, chalk paint can give hardware a trendy matte finished look. Be sure to apply a sealant like wax or polyurethane over chalk paint to protect the finish since it’s porous.

How long does painted hardware take to dry and cure?

Most spray paints dry within 1 hour. Oil-based enamels take up to 24 hours to dry. Allow 5-7 days for paint to fully cure before using hardware.

Conclusion

Painting metal cabinet hardware allows you to easily and affordably change the style of your cabinets. With the right preparation, paint selection, and application techniques, you can achieve furniture-quality painted finishes. Invest the time in proper prep work and apply multiple thin coats of a high-quality metal paint for a smooth, durable finish. Paint your hardware to match your kitchen or bathroom decor or just to add a pop of color. With painted hardware, you can update your cabinets in an afternoon.