How to Paint Metal Cabinet Handles
Painting metal cabinet handles is an easy and affordable way to update the look of your kitchen or bathroom. With a fresh coat of spray paint, you can transform dated hardware into a modern accent that complements your space. This simple DIY project requires minimal supplies and just a little bit of time.
Introduction
Revamping kitchen or bathroom cabinet hardware is one of the simplest ways to update the style and feel of your space. Swapping out old knobs and pulls for new ones can make cabinets look fresh and modern. But buying all new hardware can get expensive. An alternative is to paint your existing handles and pulls with spray paint. This allows you to inexpensively change the look of your metal hardware.
Painting metal cabinet hardware isn’t difficult, but following a few key steps will ensure the paint adheres properly and provide a smooth, durable finish. This guide will walk through the complete process of how to spray paint metal cabinet handles, from proper prep and taping to applying paint and sealant. With these tips, you can easily add a pop of color or completely transform the style of your current hardware.
Benefits of Painting vs. Buying New Handles
- Cost savings – Painting existing hardware is much cheaper than purchasing all new knobs and pulls. Cans of spray paint cost just a few dollars. New hardware can range from $2-$20 per handle.
- Customization – Spray paint comes in virtually every color imaginable. You can choose a crisp white, bold color like navy or magenta, metallic finish, or a vintage-look patina. New hardware styles are limited to what’s available in stores or online.
- Less waste – Reusing handles eliminates tossing out perfectly functional hardware, avoiding unnecessary waste.
- Easy updates – A new coat of paint allows you to quickly update your space. No need to deal with uninstalling and reinstalling a bunch of hardware.
- Matches décor – Paint can match your kitchen or bathroom décor seamlessly. For example, paint handles to match appliances, countertops or cabinets.
Supplies Needed
Painting kitchen and bathroom cabinet handles requires just a few simple supplies:
- Metal cabinet handles or knobs – The existing hardware you wish to paint. It must be metal, not wood, plastic or glass.
- Spray paint – Specifically designed for metal and available in a variety of sheens and finishes like gloss, satin, metallic, primer, clear top coat, etc.
- Painter’s tape – Used to mask off areas you don’t want painted. Blue painter’s tape works best.
- Sandpaper – Fine grit sandpaper removes residue or gloss from hardware so paint adheres well.
- Paint brush – For hand-painting details or edges spray paint may miss.
- Paper towels, cotton rags – For wiping away dust or overspray.
- Newspaper or drop cloth – Protects your work area from drips and overspray.
- Gloves and face mask – For safely handling spray paint and hardware.
How to Prepare Metal Handles for Painting
Proper prep is crucial for spray paint to adhere correctly to metal hardware. Follow these steps prior to painting:
Step 1: Remove Hardware
- Take off all knobs, pulls or handles from cabinets using a screwdriver. This allows you to thoroughly prep, paint and seal them more easily.
Step 2: Clean Hardware
- Wipe cabinet hardware with a cotton rag and all-purpose cleaner or rubbing alcohol. This helps remove any grease, dirt or residue.
Step 3: Sand Hardware
- Lightly sand each handle using 150 grit sandpaper. Sanding roughens up the surface so paint can grip better.
- Be sure to sand evenly over the entire surface, rotating the handle as you sand.
Step 4: Wipe Away Dust
- Use a dry paper towel or cotton rag to wipe away any dust from sanding. Dust can impact paint’s adhesion if not removed.
Step 5: Tape Off Areas
- Use painter’s tape to cover any cabinet or drawer front surfaces surrounding the hardware holes. This protects areas you don’t want sprayed.
Step 6: Lay Out Newspaper
- Cover your work area with newspaper or a plastic drop cloth to protect it from paint overspray. Spray paint can carry several feet.
How to Spray Paint Metal Handles
Once your handles are fully prepped, you’re ready to apply spray paint. Follow these key tips for getting an smooth, even coat:
Step 1: Insert Hardware for Spraying
- Insert each handle or knob into the hardware hole in a piece of scrap wood or cardboard. This allows you to handle it while spraying.
Step 2: Hang Handles Vertically
- Hang handles from a wire, rod or rack so they are vertical while spraying. This allows paint to cover all sides evenly.
Step 3: Apply Thin Coats
- Hold the spray paint can 6 to 8 inches away from the hardware and apply several thin coats rather than one thick coat. Thin coats help prevent drips and runs.
Step 4: Spray All Sides
- Rotate the handle to spray all sides and angles thoroughly so no areas are missed. Multiple light coats are better than one heavy coat.
Step 5: Allow Proper Dry Time
- Let each coat dry completely according to the spray paint manufacturer’s instructions before applying another coat. This ensures proper adhesion.
Step 6: Inspect for Drips
- Closely inspect for any drips or runs after each coat dries. Use a fine sanding block to smooth them out before applying the next coat.
Step 7: Apply Top Coat (Optional)
- For added protection, apply a clear acrylic top coat after the final color coat. This helps seal the painted finish.
How to Hand Paint Small Details
If your hardware contains small grooves,details or edges that spray paint may miss, hand painting those spots with a small art paint brush ensures full coverage:
- Use the appropriate primer color as a base coat first. Allow to fully dry.
- Dip the paint brush into the color spray paint and gently apply by hand to small areas spray paint can’t reach.
- Take your time painting details and wait for each painted section to dry before moving on to avoid smearing.
- Apply a top coat with brush on hand-painted areas too for added protection.
Dry Times for Painting Metal
Drying times vary by brand, but in general:
- Primer coat: Allow primer to dry 20-30 minutes between coats and 1 hour before painting.
- Paint coats: Follow paint manufacturer’s recommended dry time between coats (usually 1-2 hours).
- Allow the final coat to cure at least 24 hours before reinstalling hardware.
- Cure time continues for 5-7 days. Avoid heavy cleaning during this time.
How to Reinstall Painted Handles
Once your painted hardware is fully dry and cured, it’s time to put it back on your cabinets:
Step 1: Remove Tape
- Carefully remove all painter’s tape from the cabinet surfaces before reattaching handles.
Step 2: Install Handles
- Line up each handle to the correct cabinet hole and attach using the existing hardware. Tighten screws firmly but don’t over tighten.
Step 3: Admire Your Work
- Stand back and admire your freshly painted handles! Enjoy your updated cabinets.
Tips for a Smooth Paint Job
Follow these pointers to ensure your painted hardware turns outstreak-free and smooth:
- Always use painter’s tape to mask off surrounding cabinet surfaces from overspray.
- Thoroughly sand hardware prior to painting so the paint grips well.
- Spray in a dust-free area to keep dirt out of the wet paint.
- When spray painting, keep the can the same distance from the hardware as you spray.
- Apply multiple thin coats rather than one thick, gloppy coat.
- Allow proper dry time between coats according to paint directions.
- Immediately smooth out any drips with fine grit sandpaper.
Painting vs. Using Paint Pens
While spray paint works best for covering large surface areas, paint pens can be used to touch up small details or edges. Consider the pros and cons:
Spray Paint
Pros:
- Delivers smooth, even finish over entire surface
- Available in any color imaginable
- Can be applied to wide range of materials
Cons:
- Requires fully masking off surroundings from overspray
- Needs sufficient ventilation while spraying
Paint Pens
Pros:
- Allow touch ups on small areas spray paint misses
- Easy to control with precision
- Good for small details, corners and edges
Cons:
- Not ideal for large surfaces since requires many coats
- Limited range of color options
- Tip sizes restrict what can be painted
Common Questions
What kind of spray paint works best?
Specialty spray paints made for metal provide maximum adhesion and durability. Look for words like “metal,” “rust-resistant” or “enamel” on the label. Primers made for metal are also essential.
Should I use a clear top coat?
A clear acrylic top coat is recommended to seal and protect the painted finish from chipping or scratching. The top coat helps the color last longer.
Can I use rubbing alcohol to prep?
Yes, wiping hardware down with rubbing alcohol prior to painting cleans and degreases the surface so paint adheres well.
How long does spray painted hardware last?
Properly prepped and sealed spray painted hardware can last for years with proper care. Avoid using harsh cleaners or abrasive scrubbers on painted finishes.
What colors work best?
While any color will work, lighter ones like white, cream or light gray show less wear over time. Darker colors like black or navy may show chips quicker.
Conclusion
Transforming outdated kitchen or bathroom hardware with spray paint is an easy and cost-effective way to update your space. Following the proper steps for prepping, taping, painting and sealing the hardware will help ensure your freshly painted handles and knobs maintain their new look for years to come.
With a few cans of spray paint and some time set aside for the process, you can breathe new life into existing metal hardware. No need to replace drab knobs and pulls with expensive new ones. A colorful coat of spray paint allows you to match any style.
Just be sure to thoroughly clean and sand the existing hardware, properly mask off surrounding cabinet surfaces, apply thin even coats, and seal with a top coat for protection. Approaching the project methodically helps produce professional looking results.
So grab some spray paint, put on your gloves, mask, and newspaper and get ready to easily transform your kitchen or bathroom cabinets with a stunning pop of color!
