Can You Paint a Metal Cabinet With Chalk Paint?

Painting metal cabinets can transform the look of your kitchen or bathroom. With the right preparation and painting technique, chalk paint is an excellent option for giving metal cabinets a fresh, updated look. Here is a detailed guide on using chalk paint to paint metal cabinets.

Overview of Chalk Paint

Chalk paint, also known as mineral paint, is a highly pigmented paint made using chalk as the main ingredient. The chalk gives the paint a matte, velvety finish that works well for a distressed, vintage look.

Some key benefits of using chalk paint on metal cabinets include:

• Chalk paint adheres well to slick surfaces like metal and glass. No need for sanding or priming.
• It provides excellent coverage, often only requiring one to two coats.
• The matte finish hides imperfections well.
• Chalk paint can be easily distressed for an antique, worn look.
• It’s available in a wide range of colors from bold to muted tones.

Brands like Annie Sloan and Country Chic are popular options, or you can make your own chalk paint using unsanded grout, chalk powder, and latex paint.

Preparing Metal Cabinets for Chalk Paint

Proper preparation is key to getting chalk paint to adhere correctly to metal. Here are the steps:

Clean the Cabinets

Remove grease and dirt using a degreasing cleanser or mineral spirits. Scrub well and rinse thoroughly. Allow to fully dry.

Sand Glossy Spots

Lightly sand any exceptionally glossy areas to dull the shine and help the paint adhere.

Remove Rust

Sand down areas of rust until smooth, then apply a rust-neutralizing primer. Rust-Oleum and Krylon make reliable options.

Clean Again

Give the cabinets another wipe down to remove any dust or debris after sanding.

With the right prep, you can often get away with skipping priming when using chalk paint on metal. But for the best adhesion and rust protection, a primer is recommended.

How to Chalk Paint Metal Cabinets

Follow these steps for a smooth, lasting chalk painted finish:

1. Apply First Coat

Stir chalk paint well before using. Use a high-quality brush to apply a generous first coat in your chosen color. Work in sections and maintain a wet edge as you go. Let dry 2-4 hours.

2. Lightly Sand and Apply Second Coat

Gently sand the first coat to smooth any brush marks or bumps. Wipe away dust, then apply the second finish coat of chalk paint. Let dry completely.

3. Distress and Seal (Optional)

For a distressed look, lightly sand edges and corners once fully dry. To protect and enhance the matte finish, apply a sealant like clear wax or polyacrylic sealer.

4. Change Hardware

Swap out old hardware for new knobs, pulls, and hinges. This finishing touch completely transforms the look of your cabinets!

Tips for Achieving a Flawless Chalk Paint Finish

Follow these tips for getting the most durable, professional results:

• Use high-quality brush designed for chalk paint. Oval brushes work well.
• Maintain a wet edge and work in sections to prevent lap marks.
• For full coverage, wait the recommended recoat time before applying second coat.
• Sand very lightly between coats using fine 220-320 grit sandpaper.
• Always seal chalk paint for enhanced protection and color.
• Prime for best adhesion if paint rubs off easily after drying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you use chalk paint on metal cabinets without sanding or priming?

In most cases, yes. Chalk paint is formulated to bond well to slick surfaces, so sanding and priming are often optional. However, light sanding of any glossy areas can help chalk paint grip better. Priming also provides an extra layer of protection against rust.

Does chalk paint work on stainless steel?

Yes, chalk paint can be used to refinish stainless steel cabinets or appliances. Be sure to scuff up the surface properly first so the paint can adhere.

What sheen is chalk paint?

Chalk paint has a signature matte, velvety finish described as a chalky, flat sheen. The look is more matte than eggshell or satin paints.

Can you use chalk paint in bathrooms?

Chalk paint is not formulated to be a bathroom paint, as it is more porous than enamels made for high humidity areas. But properly sealed chalk paint can work well in powder rooms or other low-moisture bathrooms. Use an oil-based polyurethane as the sealant.

How do you apply two coats of chalk paint?

After the first coat has dried 2-4 hours, gently sand to smooth out brush strokes. Dust off and wipe clean. Then apply the second finish coat of chalk paint in the same color. Let dry completely before distressing or sealing.

Transform Your Cabinets With Chalk Paint

Chalk paint delivers a smooth, long-lasting finish on metal cabinets that can be distressed for vintage appeal. With proper preparation and painting technique, you can use chalk paint to give metal cabinets and other surfaces a fresh, updated look. Experiment with different colors and finishes to find your perfect style.