Chalk paint has become an increasingly popular choice for DIY furniture makeovers and home decor projects. Known for its matte finish and ability to adhere to surfaces with little to no prep work, chalk paint can give metal cabinets and furniture a completely refreshed look with just a couple coats of paint.

Painting metal cabinets with chalk paint does require some special considerations compared to wood pieces. The slick surface of metal cabinets presents unique challenges that must be addressed to achieve the perfect, long-lasting finish. With the right prep work and painting technique, you can transform dated, worn metal cabinets into a stunning showpiece in your kitchen or bathroom.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to chalk paint metal cabinets like a pro. We’ll cover:

How to Prepare Metal Cabinets for Chalk Paint

• Cleaning and removing grease
• Lightly sanding for better adhesion
• Priming metal surfaces

Chalk Paint Supplies Needed

• Chalk paint colors and brands
• Waxes and top coats
• Brushes and rollers
• Sandpaper
• Drop cloths

Step-by-Step Painting Instructions

• Proper brushwork techniques
• Applying chalk paint evenly
• Drying and curing times
• Distressing for an antique look
• Clear top coat for protection

Achieving Different Finishes with Chalk Paint

• Matte finish
• Distressed look
• Stain and glaze effects
• Colored waxes for accenting

How to Maintain Chalk Painted Metal Cabinets

• Cleaning and care
• Touch ups over time

Let’s get into the nitty gritty details of preparing metal for chalk paint, applying it properly, and sealing it so your painted cabinets look absolutely gorgeous while holding up for years to come. Grab your paint brushes and let’s get to it!

Cleaning and Prepping Metal Cabinets for Painting

Before any paint can be applied, it’s imperative that the surface of metal cabinets be cleaned and prepped properly. This lays the foundation for the chalk paint to adhere securely.

Chalk paint can go on smoothly for a flawless finish, but only if the metal underneath has been cleaned of any grease, grime, or other residues. Here are the steps to prep metal cabinets ahead of painting:

Remove Grease and Built-Up Grime

Kitchen cabinets, in particular, can accumulate layers of oil and cooking grease. These must be removed completely before attempting to paint metal cabinets. An all-purpose cleaner or degreaser can tackle grease and grime so it doesn’t interfere with paint adhesion.

Spray cabinets down with degreaser and let it soak for 5-10 minutes. Scrub all surfaces with a stiff scrub brush or abrasive sponge to lift all grease and residues. Rinse thoroughly and allow to fully dry.

For less soiled cabinets, a mix of warm water and dish soap on a clean rag can remove surface grease and dirt when wiped carefully over all areas.

Lightly Sand Metal for Paint Grip

Once degreased, lightly sanding metal cabinets gives the chalk paint something to grip onto. This is a very important step in getting the paint to bond properly.

Use 120-150 grit sandpaper and give all surfaces a quick once-over sanding. This effectively scuffs up the top layer of slick metal so the chalk paint can adhere better.

Be sure to sand inside cabinets and drawers as well. Wipe away all sanding dust with a dry cloth after this step.

Clean With TSP Substitute

As a final cleaning to remove any oily residue or soap film, use a TSP substitute cleaner. Mix according to package directions and wash all surfaces down.

This phosphate-free cleaner will etch the metal slightly to open the pores and provide a great foundation for chalk paint.

Rinse completely and leave metal to dry fully before priming or painting.

Priming Metal Surfaces

Chalk paint adheres incredibly well to a wide range of materials without primer. But for the smoothest, longest-lasting finish on slick metal, it’s recommended to apply a primer coat first.

The purpose of primer on metal is to give the chalk paint something to bite into for superior adhesion. It also helps cover over any scratches or imperfections.

For best results, use a specifically formulated bonding primer or spray can of Rustoleum metal primer. Apply a thin coat and let fully cure per manufacturer’s directions before painting.

Alternately, a coat of chalk paint diluted with water can serve as a primer. Thin down your top coat paint with a 1:3 ratio of paint to water and apply as a primer. Let dry completely before painting full strength chalk paint.

Supplies You’ll Need to Chalk Paint Metal

Now that you know how to prep metal cabinets for the ideal paint application, gather all the supplies you’ll need for a smooth painting process:

Chalk Paint

Obviously, you’ll need actual chalk paint in your desired shade! Chalk paint is available from many brands including:

• Annie Sloan
• Rust-Oleum Chalked
• Waverly Chalk Paint
• FolkArt Home Décor Chalk
• Country Chic Paint
• Dixie Belle

Stick to a reputable brand of paint formulated specifically for chalk painting furniture and cabinets. The chalk paint will provide maximum coverage and a smooth matte finish.

Choose at least 1-2 quarts of paint depending on the size of your cabinets. Keep in mind that painting metal will require more coats of paint than wood, so factor that into quantity needed.

Lint-Free Rags

Have lint-free cloths on hand to wipe away dust or to fuss with paint drips. Old cotton t-shirts or microfiber cloths work perfectly. Paper towels can leave fibers behind.

Rags are useful for applying top coats and wiping away excess evenly. You’ll need several for each step of the painting process.

High-Quality Brushes

Don’t skimp on brushes for painting cabinets! Good brushes make the application process much easier.

Look for densely packed, 100% natural bristle brushes made for chalk paint. The bristles should be medium-stiff, not flimsy soft. Purdy and Wooster make excellent brushes designed for furniture painting.

Have a couple 2-3″ angled sash brushes for cutting in edges and corners. Wider 4-5” brushes work well for covering large flat areas. Round brushes reach into grooves nicely.

Foam Rollers and Roller Covers

Foam rollers speed up application of chalk paint onto large flat surfaces like cabinet doors and sides. Choose high-density foam rollers with beveled edges.

You’ll also need covers for paint roller frames. Disposable 9” roller covers with 3/8” nap work perfectly to prevent dripping.

Sandpaper

Keep 100-150 grit sandpaper on hand for distressing cabinets after painting if desired. You can create an authentic chippy antique finish by lightly sanding edges and corners.

Also use sandpaper for scuffing up any drips or bumps between coats for a smooth final finish.

Drop Cloths

Protect floors and other surfaces from drips and spills by covering with canvas drop cloths, plastic sheets, or newspapers.

Place drop cloths under and around the cabinets you’ll be painting. Paint can splatter further than you might expect!

Paint Brush Cleaning Tools

To keep brushes ready for reuse, you need supplies to clean them. Have containers of water, paint thinner, and brush cleaner soap on hand.

Brush comb and wire brush tools are also useful for removing chalk paint from brushes so they last through multiple jobs.

Now that you’ve gathered the needed supplies, you’re ready to get down to the painting itself!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Painting Metal Cabinets

Painting metal cabinets with chalk paint takes some finesse to get right. Follow these step-by-step instructions for smooth, flawless coverage:

1. Remove Hardware and Doors

Before painting, remove all hardware including hinges, handles and knobs from cabinets and drawers. Set aside all hardware together so it can be easily reinstalled later.

Also, remove cabinet doors and drawers to make the painting process easier. Lay doors flat on a covered surface for full access to all sides.

2. Shake Paint Well and Pour into Trays

Always shake chalk paint vigorously for a full minute before pouring it into paint trays. This ensures the pigment is distributed evenly for proper color consistency.

Pour just enough paint to coat a section at a time into disposable paint trays. Cover trays between uses to prevent drying out.

3. Apply First Coat with Angled Brush

Using an angled sash brush, apply the first coat of chalk paint around all edges, grooves, and corners. Cut in the paint around hinge holes and hardware mounting plates carefully.

Work methodically from top to bottom, coating all sides of the cabinets with a smooth and even brushstroke. Allow paint to dry fully before proceeding.

4. Roll on First Coat

Once edges and cut-ins are complete, use a roller and extension pole to quickly apply chalk paint to large flat surfaces. Distribute paint in a thin and even layer over doors, sides, tops, and bottoms.

Overlap edges from the angled brushwork to blend seamlessly. Cover all surfaces evenly, rolling in all directions to spread around any drips. Allow paint to dry fully before second coat.

5. Sand Drips and Apply Second Coat

Inspect first coat thoroughly once dry. Use sandpaper to knock down any drips or bumps. Apply the second coat of chalk paint just like the first.

Building up two thin layers of paint gives better coverage on metal than one thick coat. Let the paint dry fully again before final top coat.

6. Apply Protective Top Coat

For added protection from scratches and dings, apply a clear top coat over fully cured chalk paint. A polyurethane or matte varnish works beautifully.

Wipe varnish on evenly using a lint-free rag. Apply thin coats and allow ample drying time between them. Typically 2-3 topcoats does the trick.

The top coat also allows you to achieve various sheens from matte to high gloss.

7. Distress Edges (Optional)

If aiming for a timeworn distressed look, lightly sand corners and edges after top coat using fine grit paper. Remove paint slowly and carefully for an authentic worn look.

Distressing allows some of the original cabinet color to show through attractively at the beveled areas. But be cautious not to overdo it!

8. Reinstall Hardware

Once fully dry, reattach all hardware like hinges, handles, and knobs using a screwdriver. Take care not to scratch the freshly painted cabinets when reinstalling.

Take your time and carefully realign each door and drawer front properly so the cabinets function smoothly again.

Allow Ample Drying Time

It’s crucial to let chalk paint cure fully between coats. Drying times vary based on humidity and thickness, but allow at least 2-4 hours between coats.

Rushing between layers can ruin the previous coat. Let chalk paint dry overnight before distressing or top coating for best results.

That covers the key steps for flawlessly painting metal cabinets using chalk paint. Follow those tips closely for beautiful results that will impress!

Achieving Different Finishes With Chalk Paint

Beyond just a matte solid color, chalk paint can be used to create all sorts of unique finishes:

Matte Finish

The signature look of chalk paint is a velvety matte finish. No top coat is required to achieve this coveted look.

Matte paint reflects less light for a soft look. For a deliberately mattified sheen, apply a matte or flat top coat over fully cured chalk paint.

Distressed Finish

As mentioned, chalk paint can be lightly sanded after drying to reveal some of the original finish underneath. This distressed cottage look is trendy.

Focus distressing on beveled edges, corners, and raised profiles. Remove paint slowly for an authentic timeworn appearance. Seal with a top coat when satisfied with level of distressing.

Stain and Glaze Effects

For more depth of color or contrast, try applying glazes or stains over the chalk paint. Work in thin layers using a rag or brush.

Dark walnut stain or gel stains result in beautiful wood grain effects. Colored glazes like burnt umber or black add definition. Seal with a top coat after applying.

Colored Waxes

Waxes in various hues can be worked into chalk painted surfaces for a mottled accent effect. White wax opens up the undertones, while colored wax adds tint.

Apply colored wax lightly over base paint with a brush or rag. Rub excess off for a muted tone. Finally, seal with a top coat of clear wax for sheen.

Multiple Colors

Don’t limit yourself to just one color! With chalk paint, you can paint different sections different colors for a funky mismatched look.

Try painting the cabinet boxes one color, then use a contrasting tone on the doors. Or paint insides a different hue than outer surfaces.

Caring for Chalk Painted Metal Cabinets

Chalk paint itself is quite durable, especially with a protective top coat applied. But the painted finish does require some care and maintenance over time:

Use Cutting Boards and Hot Pads

To prevent scratching or marring the pretty chalk painted surface, always use cutting boards, trivets, and hot pads on your cabinet tops.

Avoid placing hot pans directly on the surface which could damage the finish over time. Take extra care around the sink.

Clean With Soft Cloth and Soap

Clean painted cabinets by wiping gently with a damp soft cloth and mild dish soap as needed. Avoid harsh cleaners or abrasive pads.

Blot dry immediately after cleaning. Disinfectants and spray cleaners may dull or stain chalk paint over time.

Reseal With Wax Yearly

Reapply a layer of conditioning wax once a year. This maintains the vibrancy of the paint and protects the finish.

Use chalk paint wax, rubbing it gently all over cabinets with a soft cloth. Buff off any haze or excess for an amazing rejuvenated look.

Touch Up Nicks and Scratches

If nicks or scratches do occur in the surface, simply clean the area then brush on a little matching chalk paint to fill it in. Feather out the paint from center.

Small touch ups blend right into the existing finish. Follow up with wax to seal.

With proper care, your painted metal cabinets should maintain their freshly painted look for many years before needing a full redo!

Frequently Asked Questions About Chalk Painting Metal

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about using chalk paint on metal cabinets, furniture, and accents:

Does Chalk Paint Adhere Well to Metal?

Chalk paint can adhere beautifully to metal surfaces with proper prep. Clean and lightly sand metal prior to painting. Apply a bonding primer for max adhesion. The chalk paint will grip well, though several thin layers are ideal for full coverage.

What Sheen Does Chalk Paint Have on Metal?

Straight chalk paint results in a smooth matte finish on metal cabinets. For a bit of sheen, top coat with a satin poly. High gloss is achievable too by finishing with a gloss polyurethane or varnish as desired.

Can You Use Chalk Paint on Rusty Metal?

Light surface rust on metal should be sanded and primed first before applying chalk paint. For heavily rusted metal, it’s best to remove all rust completely with a wire brush or rust treatment solution before attempting to paint.

How Long Does Chalk Paint Last on Metal?

The lifespan of chalk paint on metal can vary based on use and care. With a proper metal primer beneath and protective top coats, it can easily last 5-10 years before needing repainting. Avoid abrasive cleaners and seal yearly with wax to maximize durability.

How Do You Seal Chalk Paint on Metal?

Polyurethane is the best sealer for chalk painted metal cabinets and furniture. Apply 2-3 thin coats with a rag or brush, lightly sanding between each layer. This seals the paint against moisture, grease stains, and scratches. Wax alone does not seal adequately.

So in summary, yes – it is very possible to get an amazing, long-lasting chalk painted finish on metal pieces! Follow the tips above and you’ll achieve stunning powdery soft-finish cabinets that become the focal point of your whole kitchen or bathroom. Chalk paint truly does work wonders on metal with the right prep and application.

How to use Chalk Paint at Home to get Professional Level Finish at a low Cost

Chalk paint has become immensely popular in recent years because it provides an easy way to redecorate and update furniture and cabinets at a low cost. Due to its versatility and ease of application, even beginners can get fantastic results that look professionally done. With a few tips and tricks, you can use chalk paint like a pro right from your home to achieve high-end decorator finishes!

Here is a guide to mastering chalk paint for stunning furniture makeovers on a budget:

Benefits of Chalk Paint for Home Use

There are many advantages to using chalk paint for DIY projects versus traditional paints:

• Goes on smoothly for beginners
• Provides great coverage in thin coats
• No stripping or sanding old finishes required
• Quick drying time between coats
• Produces distinctive matte, velvety finish
• Can create aged, distressed effects easily

Chalk paint is also much more forgiving and fuss-free than other paints. Drips and brush marks blend away easily for a flawless end result. The supplies needed are minimal as well. Overall, chalk paint makes furniture painting highly approachable for non-professionals.

How to Prep Furniture for Chalk Painting

Very little prep work is required prior to applying chalk paint. Just clean the surfaces thoroughly and remove any hardware:

• Wipe away loose dirt, dust and gri