How to Paint Metal Kitchen Cabinets to Look Like Wood

Painting outdated, worn metal kitchen cabinets can be an affordable way to update the look of your kitchen without the high cost of a full remodel. With the right prep work, paint, and technique, you can make metal cabinets look like new custom wood cabinets. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to paint metal kitchen cabinets to look like wood.

Clean and Prepare the Cabinets

Thoroughly clean all cabinet surfaces with a degreasing cleaner to remove built-up grime and oils. Pay close attention to the inside of the cabinet boxes. Once cleaned, lightly sand the cabinets with 220 grit sandpaper to rough up the surface for better paint adhesion. Wipe away all dust with a tack cloth. Fill any holes or imperfections with wood filler and let dry completely. Lightly sand the filler smooth.

Prime the Cabinets

Choose a high-quality primer specifically made for metal such as Rust-Oleum Professional High Performance Metal Primer. Apply 2-3 thin, even coats allowing proper drying time between coats. The primer coat provides an essential base that allows the paint to properly bond with the metal surface. Proper prep and priming help prevent future chipping or peeling.

Paint the Cabinets

For a realistic wood look, choose a paint color that resembles natural wood tones. Cream, tan, brown, gray, and white work well. A satin or semi-gloss sheen is ideal for cabinets as it is easy to clean and resists marking. Apply the cabinet paint in thin, even coats allowing each coat to fully dry before adding another. 2-3 coats are usually needed for full coverage. For an extra durable finish, use a cabinet-grade enamel paint such as Benjamin Moore’s Advance Paint.

Add Wood Grain Texture

Here are two methods to make metal cabinets look like authentic wood:

Brush Technique

After the base coats have dried, use a dry bristle brush to apply thin streaks of paint slightly darker than the base color. Slightly angle and twist the brush as you lightly apply the paint. Work in sections blending the brush strokes together. Soften and blend more for a subtle look or leave visible streaks for a more noticeable wood grain effect.

Roller Technique

Apply a wood grain texture roller such as Rust-Oleum’s Grain Finish Roller. Load the roller with the graining paint. Roll in different directions lifting the roller as you go to create the wood texture. Lightly go over the finish with a dry brush to enhance and soften the look.

Finish and Protect

Once fully dry, apply 1-2 coats of a clear polyurethane sealer. This helps protect the finish and gives the wood effect a realistic sheen. For added protection, consider applying a clear coat of water-based polycrylic on cabinet exteriors.

With the right materials and technique, you can give outdated metal kitchen cabinets a makeover to look like natural, high-end wood cabinets. Proper prep and primer, wood-toned cabinet paint, grain finish techniques, and a protective clear topcoat are the keys to success.

Frequently Asked Questions About Painting Metal Kitchen Cabinets to Look Like Wood

What type of paint works best for a realistic wood look?

Latex acrylic paints like Benjamin Moore Advance provide the best finish for metal kitchen cabinets. The satin or semi-gloss sheens look most like stained wood.

What’s the difference between brush graining and wood grain rollers?

The brush technique involves manually brushing on paint streaks to mimic wood grain. Grain rollers have a textured surface that applies the wood effect as you roll on the paint.

What sheen should I use?

Satin or semi-gloss sheens look most like wood cabinets. Semi-gloss offers maximum durability while satin gives a softer look. Avoid high-gloss as it shows imperfections.

How do I get an even finish?

Use a high-density foam roller and maintain a wet edge as you paint. Work in sections and avoid drying between coats. Sand lightly between coats for the smoothest finish.

How long does the paint job last?

With proper prep, primer, application and sealing, painted metal cabinets can last 5-10 years before needing touch ups. Proper care and cleaning keeps them looking their best.

Should I spray or brush the paint?

For DIY projects, brush painting usually provides better results than spraying which risks drips and uneven coverage. Invest in good quality brushes.

What’s the ideal drying time between coats?

2-4 hours depending on humidity levels. Test if the coat is dry by gently touching. It should be dry to the touch, not sticky. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Conclusion

Transforming outdated metal kitchen cabinets into wood-grained beauties is a budget-friendly way to update your space. With attention to preparation, primer, technique, and protective sealing, you can achieve a custom, high-end look without the expense of new cabinets. The project does require some time and labor but the potential payoff makes it worth the effort. Just think how great your kitchen will look when those metal cabinets become a thing of the past.