How to Refinish Metal Cabinet Handles

Refinishing metal cabinet handles can completely transform the look of your kitchen or bathroom. Over time, handles can become dull, scratched, tarnished, or just dated in style. Refinishing them is an easy and affordable way to update the look of your cabinets. With some simple cleaning, sanding, priming, and spray painting, you can make those old handles look brand new.

Supplies Needed to Refinish Metal Handles

Refinishing metal cabinet handles is a relatively easy DIY project. Here are the basic supplies you’ll need:

• Metal paint/primer spray paint – Look for spray paint formulated specifically for metal and labeled as a paint + primer in one. A semi-gloss or gloss sheen usually works best.
• Sandpaper – 220 and 400 grit sandpaper for smoothing the surface.
• Rags – For wiping down handles between sanding and painting. Disposable paper towels or soft cloths work well.
• Painter’s tape – For covering areas you don’t want painted.
• Newspaper or cardboard – To lay down to catch overspray.
• Face mask – To protect from paint fumes.
• Disposable gloves – To keep paint off your hands.
• Q-tips – To reach small crevices and corners.
• Tack cloth – For removing dust before painting.

Optional items that can help are a putty knife for scraping off old paint, steel wool for extra smoothing, and a spray paint handle grip if you’ll be painting a lot of handles.

Removing Cabinet Handles

Before refinishing your metal handles, you’ll need to remove them from the cabinet doors and drawers.

• Locate the screw holes on the backside of the handle. There may be anywhere from 2 to 4 screws.
• Using a screwdriver, remove all the screws and detach the handle from the cabinet door or drawer front.
• Some handles may also have posts or internal screws that you’ll need to remove as part of the handle assembly.
• Set the detached handles aside and be sure to keep the hardware together for reinstallation later.

Cleaning and Prepping the Handles

Now it’s time to clean and prepare the cabinet handles before painting:

• Clean with soap and water – Wipe down all handles with a mild detergent and warm water using a soft cloth to remove dirt, grease, and grime.
• Scrape off loose paint – Use a putty knife to gently scrape off any loose or flaking existing paint. Avoid scraping down to the bare metal.
• Sand lightly – Lightly sand all surfaces of the handles using 220 grit sandpaper. This helps the new paint adhere better.
• Remove dust – Wipe handles thoroughly with a tack cloth to remove all dust particles before painting.

Once cleaned and sanded, the handles are ready for the first coat of metal primer.

Priming the Metal Handles

Primer provides an important base layer for the new paint to stick to.

• Set up an area to paint by laying down newspaper or cardboard. Do this outside or in a well-ventilated area.
• Position the handles on sticks or blocks so you can access all sides.
• Shake the metal primer spray paint vigorously for at least 60 seconds.
• Apply a light first coat of primer, spraying back and forth to evenly cover all handle surfaces. Allow to dry completely.
• Once dry, sand handles again lightly with 400 grit sandpaper.
• Wipe clean with a tack cloth and apply a second coat of primer. Allow to dry fully.

The handles are now ready for the final paint finish coat!

Spray Painting the Handles

Follow these steps for properly spray painting your primed metal handles:

• Shake the spray paint can vigorously for 60-90 seconds to mix the paint.
• Position handles on your cardboard or paper to catch overspray.
• Hold can 6-8 inches from the handle surface. Apply light, even coats using a steady back and forth motion.
• Let the first coat dry completely, then apply a second finish coat in the same manner.
• Allow the final coat to cure fully, at least 24 hours, before reinstalling handles.
• Be sure to cover any areas you don’t want painted with painter’s tape or paper.
• Use quick light coats instead of one heavy coat for best results.
• Add additional finish coats if needed until you achieve full, even coverage.

Tips for a Professional Paint Finish

Follow these tips and techniques to get a smooth factory-like finish on your spray painted handles:

• Keep the can the same distance from the surface as you spray. This prevents drips or thin spots.
• Use short quick strokes, slightly overlapping each pass. Avoid staying too long in one spot.
• Spray using a sweeping motion to coat all sides of dimensional handles. Rotate and turn the piece as you paint.
• Lightly mist handles with paint instead of saturating the surface. Slowly build up coverage.
• Always spray horizontally or vertically, not both. This prevents drips.
• Apply coats in quick succession before previous coats fully dry. This allows paint to bond.
• Work in a dust-free space without gusts of wind or fans blowing. Dust can ruin the final finish.
• Allow each coat to dry thoroughly between applications for smooth results.
• Add more coats to cover any light or thin spots. The handle should have uniform coverage.

How to Refinish Brass Handles

To refinish brass cabinet hardware instead of painted metal handles, a slightly different process is used:

• Clean handles well with mild soap and water using a soft cloth. Rinse thoroughly.
• Remove existing lacquer finish by wiping handles with paint thinner.
• Buff handles lightly with ultra-fine 0000 steel wool. Rinse and dry completely.
• Apply a thin, even coat of clear matte polyurethane spray. Allow to dry.
• Lightly buff handles again if needed using super fine steel wool. Rinse and dry.
• Repeat steps of applying polyurethane, drying, and gently buffing until you achieve an even satin sheen.
• Be sure to work in a well-ventilated area when using paint thinner or polyurethane sprays.

Reinstalling Refinished Handles

Once your cabinet handles are fully dry and cured, you’re ready to reinstall them onto your cabinet doors and drawers.

• Line up each handle over the holes and insert the original screws.
• Tighten screws evenly so handle sits flush against the door. Be careful not to overtighten.
• If the screw holes are stripped, fill holes slightly with toothpicks before reinserting screws.
• For handles with posts on the backside, slide them into place in the holes before tightening screws.
• Attach handles evenly so they sit straight and aligned with cabinet doors or drawers.
• Open and close doors to make sure handles are not interfering or scraping doors.

And that’s it – step back and admire your beautiful refinished metal cabinet handles! With some new finishes, you’ve given your kitchen or bath a whole new look.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you paint over existing finishes on metal handles?

Yes, metal handles can be painted over if the existing finish is intact. Lightly sanding will help the new paint adhere. If the old finish is chipping or peeling, remove all loose paint first before priming and painting.

What kind of spray paint works best?

Look for spray paints formulated specifically for metal surfaces. These provide maximum adhesion and durability on metal hardware. Gloss and semi-gloss sheens give a smooth finished look.

How do you get a smooth finish when spray painting?

Use light misting coats, holding the can 6-8 inches away. Apply multiple thin coats rather than one heavy coat. Allow each coat to dry fully between applications for the smoothest final finish.

Should you remove handles before painting cabinets?

Yes, always remove hardware before painting or staining cabinets. Trying to mask around handles never works well. Remove handles, paint cabinets, then reinstall hardware after the paint has cured.

Can you use a spray paint handle grip when painting hardware?

Yes, these adjustable handle attachments for spray paint cans allow for a better grip and easier handling when spray painting multiple pieces of hardware or cabinets. They help save your fingers!

How soon can I reinstall handles after spray painting?

Allow painted handles to cure at least 24 hours before reattaching. Check the spray paint can for the manufacturer’s full curing timeline before subjecting handles to wear and tear.

What kind of paint do you use to refinish brass?

For refinishing brass hardware, use a clear matte or satin polyurethane spray. Multiple thin coats help build up a protective clear finish. Avoid glossy varnish-like finishes on brass.

Can you mix different metal finishes after painting?

Yes, mixing metal finishes is trendy right now in kitchen and bath design. Go ahead and pair newly painted handles with different finishes like stainless steel, oil-rubbed bronze, or unlacquered brass.

How do I get rid of paint drips when spray painting?

Hold the can the recommended 6-8 inches away and apply light coats only, moving the can constantly. Stop spraying if paint starts to run. Let the coat dry fully before additional applications.

What kind of primer should I use on metal?

A primer formulated specifically for metal will provide maximum adhesion on metal cabinet hardware. Rust-inhibiting metal primers are also a good choice for handles prone to rusting.

Conclusion

Refinishing worn and outdated metal handles is an easy DIY project that can give your cabinets or drawers a brand new updated look. With some simple cleaning, sanding, priming, and spray painting, those handles can look like new for a fraction of the cost of replacing them. Just be sure to thoroughly prepare the surface first and always use metal-specific spray paints and primers for the most durable finish. Follow these steps to transform your old hardware and give your space an updated, pulled-together look.