How to Chalk Paint a Metal File Cabinet

Chalk painting furniture is a popular DIY trend that allows you to transform pieces with a distressed, vintage look without the need for sanding or priming. It’s an easy technique, but painting metal comes with some unique considerations compared to wood pieces. Follow these steps to successfully chalk paint a metal file cabinet.

Supplies Needed

To chalk paint a metal file cabinet, you will need:

• Chalk paint – Look for paint marketed specifically for chalk painting. The thick, matte formula adheres well to slick surfaces like metal.
• Wax or sealant – Chalk paint has a matte finish that requires a top coat for protection. Use a clear furniture wax or polyurethane sealant.
• Sandpaper – Lightly sanding helps the paint adhere. You’ll need a fine grit sandpaper.
• Tack cloth – This is used to remove dust between sanding and painting.
• Paintbrushes – Angled brushes work well for cutting in edges. A brush with dense, rounded bristles is good for applying paint.
• Paint tray and roller – These make it easy to apply the chalk paint evenly.
• Drop cloth – Protect your floors from drips and splatters.
• Cleaning supplies – For wiping down the cabinet prior to painting.

Prepping the Metal Cabinet

Proper prep is crucial when painting metal. Here’s how to get your file cabinet ready for chalk paint:

• Clean the surface thoroughly with a degreaser or mild soap and water. Rinse and let dry completely.
• Lightly scuff the surface using a fine (220 grit) sandpaper. This helps the paint adhere better.
• Wipe away all dust with a tack cloth. Make sure the metal is perfectly clean and dry before painting.
• Remove the drawers and hardware (handles, hinges). Set these aside to paint separately later.
• Place the empty cabinet on a drop cloth in a well-ventilated area. Have your paint and supplies nearby.

Applying the Chalk Paint

Follow these steps for flawless application:

• Stir the chalk paint well before using. Pour some into a paint tray.
• Use a dense brush to cut in around the edges and corners. Let the paint coat the bristles well.
• Use a roller for large flat surfaces, rolling in different directions to get full coverage. Apply in thin, even coats.
• Chalk paint dries very fast. Work in small sections and maintain a wet edge.
• For inside the cabinet, use a brush to coat all edges and the cabinet back.
• Once fully coated, let the paint dry completely for 24 hours before moving the cabinet.
• Do 2-3 thin coats for best results, lightly sanding between coats.

Distressing and Waxing

For a vintage look:

• Once fully dry, lightly sand edges or use a damp rag to rub away some of the paint. Distress as desired.
• Apply wax with a clean rag. Rub in circular motions to build up a silky luster.
• Buff off excess wax with a soft cloth once dry. Apply a second coat of wax if desired.
• Consider a clear topcoat if you want more durability. Apply polyurethane over the wax and allow to fully cure.

Painting the Drawers and Hardware

Don’t forget about the rest of the cabinet!

• Thoroughly clean and dry all hardware and remove any caked on grease or grime with a degreaser.
• For the drawers, scuff lightly with sandpaper and clean before painting just like the main cabinet.
• Use a small art brush to paint the hardware and drawer pulls. Allow to dry fully before reattaching.
• Paint the sides and fronts of each drawer using a brush or mini foam roller.
• Once the main cabinet is waxed, you can reattach the newly painted hardware and drawers!

With some simple preparation and these easy chalk painting steps, you can give a metal file cabinet a fresh, trendy new look. The distressed chalk paint finish will make it look like a vintage find!

Frequently Asked Questions About Chalk Painting Metal

Here are answers to some common questions about this painting technique:

What type of paint adheres best to metal?

Chalk paint specifically formulated for furniture painting adheres best to slick surfaces like metal. The thick, matte formula provides great coverage.

Do you have to sand metal before painting?

Lightly sanding with a fine grit sandpaper opens up the surface for better paint adhesion. Make sure to wipe away dust before painting.

What causes chalk paint to chip on metal?

If chalk paint is chipping, the surface wasn’t properly cleaned and prepared. Painting over grease or failing to remove dust can cause paint to chip away.

Can you use chalk paint on rusty metal?

For rusty spots, thoroughly scrub the area with sandpaper or steel wool, wipe clean, then apply a rust inhibiting primer before painting with chalk paint.

How do you get an antiqued look with chalk paint on metal?

After fully drying, you can lightly sand edges or use a damp rag to rub away some of the paint to achieve a worn, antique look. Applying dark wax also helps age the finish.

What sheen is best for chalk paint – matte, satin, or gloss?

Chalk paint is formulated to have a matte, velvety flat finish. If you apply a topcoat like wax or polyurethane in a gloss or satin sheen, you can adjust the look.

Conclusion

With a little bit of elbow grease, chalk paint can give a dated metal file cabinet an easy makeover. Prepping the surface properly helps the paint adhere for a long lasting finish. After painting, distressing and waxing provide that trendy vintage look. Just be sure to paint the drawers and hardware separately for a cohesive final look. With the right supplies and techniques, you can turn salvaged office furniture into stylish storage pieces. Chalk painting makes it simple to refurbish metal cabinets on a budget.