Can You Cover Metal Kitchen Cabinets To Look Cabin Rustic?

Prep the Cabinets

Before you start covering the cabinets, proper prep work is essential. Here are the steps:

• Clean the cabinets thoroughly to remove any grease, dirt or residue. Use a degreaser and then rinse well.
• Sand the cabinets lightly with fine grit sandpaper to scuff up the surface. This helps the new paint adhere better.
• Fill any holes, dents or imperfections with wood filler and sand smooth.
• Prime the cabinets with a high-quality bonding primer designed for metal. This provides a base layer for paint.
• Allow the primer coat to fully dry as per the manufacturer’s directions before proceeding.

Choose a Rustic Paint Color

The right paint color is key to achieving a rustic cabin feel. Some top color choices include:

• Earthy neutrals like beige, tan, cream or mushroom
• Soft sage greens
• Warm rusty reds and deep burgundies
• Charcoal greys
• Crisp whites to contrast darker colors

Opt for matte or flat sheens over gloss for a more natural look. Chalk paints work great to create a distressed finish too.

Apply Cabinet Paint

With the prep work done, you’re ready to paint the cabinets:

• Lightly sand the primed cabinets to scuff up the surface again.
• Clean away any dust with a tack cloth.
• Use high-quality acrylic latex paint in your chosen color and apply 2-3 thin, even coats with a roller and angled brush.
• Allow each coat to dry fully before adding another.
• Gently sand the final coat to distress it and create worn edges if desired.

Add Rustic Hardware

Swap out those modern metal handles and knobs for rustic, vintage-style hardware:

• Galvanized metal with a worn, weathered look
• Antique-style iron pulls with an aged patina
• Rough-hewn wood knobs in a natural stain
• Cast iron hardware with chippy paint accents

Mismatched handles in different finishes also help accentuate the handmade vibe.

Weather and Distress

To make the cabinets look like reclaimed wood from an old cottage, try weathering and distressing techniques:

• Lightly sand edges and corners to simulate natural wear and tear.
• Use a damp cloth to rub away paint in spots to expose the primer below.
• Paint on wood grain streaks with watered-down paint using a stiff brush.
• Hammer small dents and nicks in non-visible spots for an aged look.

Apply these effects sparingly so they look realistic instead of overdone.

Seal and Protect

Once you’ve achieved the ideal distressed rustic look, it’s important to seal and protect the finish:

• Apply 2-3 coats of a clear polyurethane sealer suited for painted cabinets. This prevents chips and scratches.
• Let the sealer cure fully, for at least 24-48 hours before using the cabinets.
• Install the new hardware and hang the cabinet doors back up.
• Fill any crevices and holes with a paintable caulk for extra protection.

With some easy DIY techniques, dated metal kitchen cabinets can be stylishly transformed into charming rustic-chic charmers. Have fun unleashing your inner cabin decorator!

Frequently Asked Questions About Covering Metal Kitchen Cabinets for a Rustic Look

Can all metal kitchen cabinets be painted?

Yes, most metal kitchen cabinets can be painted over to change their look. Exceptions would be if the cabinet surface has a plastic laminate or melamine coating that resists paint adhesion. As long as you prepare and prime the cabinets properly, standard metal cabinets can be painted.

What type of paint works best?

Latex acrylic paints work very well for painting metal cabinets and come in a wide range of color options. Enamel paints are another top choice due to their durable finish. Chalk paint can also be used for a distressed style. Always opt for high quality paints made specifically for metal, cabinetry or furniture.

Should the metal cabinets be sanded before painting?

Lightly sanding the cabinets prior to painting allows for better paint adhesion. Use fine 220-400 grit sandpaper to scuff up the surface so the paint can grip properly. Be sure to clean off dust before priming or painting.

How do I achieve a worn, distressed look?

After fully painting the cabinets, you can distress them by lightly sanding edges, corners and raised details while the paint is still a bit tacky. Also rub off some paint in random spots with a damp cloth to expose the primer underneath. Apply weathering techniques sparingly so they look natural.

What kind of rustic hardware should I choose?

Look for hardware finishes like antique iron, rustic bronzes, weathered galvanized metal, or unfinished wood. Stay away from polished chrome or stainless steel. Mismatched vintage-style pulls and knobs complement a distressed rustic style.

Should I seal the cabinets after painting?

Yes, it’s highly recommended to apply 2-3 coats of a clear polyurethane sealer after painting. Water-based urethane is easy to apply and durable. The sealer protects the finish from moisture damage, grease stains and chipping over time.

Can I turn glossy metal cabinets into a rustic look?

Yes, glossy cabinets can still be adapted to a rustic style. Proper prep and priming provides the base for achieving a flat, non-glossy painted finish in a rustic color. Distressing techniques like sanding, rubbing off paint, and adding wear can also disguise the previous glossy surface.

Conclusion

Transforming dated metal kitchen cabinets into rustic country charmers is an easy and affordable project for DIYers. With the right prep work, paint colors, distressing techniques and hardware, you can give metal cabinets a completely fresh woodsy look and feel. Turn your kitchen into a cozy cabin retreat in just a weekend and on a budget with this simple makeover.