How to Paint Wood Cabinets to Look Like Metal

Painting wooden cabinets to look like metal is an easy and affordable way to give your kitchen a modern, industrial vibe without the hefty price tag. With the right paint, prep work, and technique, you can transform the look of your cabinets in just a weekend. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to paint wood cabinets to look like metal.

Supplies Needed

• High-adhesion primer – Like Zinsser’s Bulls Eye 1-2-3
• Metallic spray paint – Krylon or Rustoleum work well
• Paintbrushes
• Sandpaper – 220 grit
• Tack cloth
• Painter’s tape
• Drop cloths

Prep the Cabinets

Proper prep is crucial for the metallic paint to adhere correctly and look smooth.

• Remove cabinet doors and drawers from the frames and lay them on drop cloths. Remove all hardware like knobs and hinges.
• Lightly sand the doors, frames, and drawers with 220 grit sandpaper to rough up the surface for the primer to grip.
• Wipe away all dust with a tack cloth.
• Use painter’s tape to mask off areas you don’t want painted, like glass panes or countertops.

Apply Primer

The high-adhesion primer will help the paint stick tightly.

• Apply a coat of primer to all cabinet surfaces using a paintbrush. Allow to dry fully.
• Lightly sand again with 220 grit sandpaper to smooth any drips or bumps.
• Wipe clean with a tack cloth.

Spray on Metallic Paint

Work in a well-ventilated area like outside or in a garage.

• Shake the metallic spray paint vigorously for at least 60 seconds.
• Hold the can 6-8 inches from the surface and spray in smooth, even strokes. Overlap passes slightly.
• Apply 2-3 thin coats rather than one thick coat, allowing proper drying time between coats. The coverage should look smooth and even.
• Allow the paint to cure for at least 24 hours before reassembling and installing the cabinets. The paint will be fully hardened in 5-7 days.

Tips for the Best Results

• Choose a metallic paint with a bronze, pewter, silver, or gunmetal finish. Matte or satin finishes look most realistic.
• Remove doors and hardware to spray separately for easier handling.
• Always prime before painting for maximum adhesion.
• Apply multiple thin coats of paint rather than one heavy coat.
• Allow proper drying time between coats.
• Slightly overlap spray passes to ensure even coverage.
• Spray in a dust-free area or tent off the spraying area.
• Use steady, even motions with the spray can about 6-8 inches from surface.
• Allow paint to cure fully before reinstalling hardware or handling doors.

Common Questions

What kind of primer should I use?

For the best adhesion, use a high-bond primer specifically made for plastic, metal, and glossy surfaces, like Zinsser’s Bulls Eye 1-2-3.

Should I remove the cabinet doors and hardware before painting?

Yes, you’ll get more even coverage if you remove the doors and hardware to paint separately. It also protects the hardware from drips.

How long does the metallic paint take to dry between coats?

Allow at least 1-2 hours drying time between metallic paint coats. Test a small area to ensure it’s dried before adding another coat.

What sheen should I use for a metal look?

Matte or satin metallic finishes look the most realistic. High-gloss will look too shiny.

Can I use a paintbrush instead of spray paint?

You can use a paintbrush, but spray painting provides a smoother, more even metallic finish. Make sure to work in a well-ventilated area.

How long should I let the paint cure before using the cabinets?

Allow the metallic paint to cure for at least 24 hours before reinstalling doors and hardware. Full hardness takes 5-7 days.

Conclusion

Transforming wooden cabinets with metallic spray paint is an easy, inexpensive way to get a high-end industrial look. Proper preparation and application technique will ensure the paint adheres tightly. Always prime first, apply light coats, overlap passes, spray evenly, and allow proper cure time. In just a weekend, you can change the entire look of your kitchen with metal-looking cabinets.