Introduction

Spray painting metal cabinets can completely transform the look of your kitchen or bathroom. With a fresh coat of paint, old, worn cabinets can look brand new again. While the process may seem daunting, spray painting metal cabinets is actually quite simple with the right materials and techniques.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know to spray paint metal cabinets like a pro. We’ll cover preparation, materials, spray painting techniques, troubleshooting tips, and how to finish your painted metal cabinets to protect them. With a little time and effort, you can upgrade your space with beautiful, custom spray painted cabinets.

Preparing Your Metal Cabinets for Painting

Proper preparation is crucial for ensuring the new paint adheres properly and delivers a smooth, durable finish. Here are the key steps to prep your cabinets:

Clean the Cabinets Thoroughly

Make sure the cabinet surfaces are clean before starting. Use a degreasing cleaner or dish soap and warm water to remove any grease, grime, or residue. Pay extra attention to areas around knobs and pulls. Rinse and let dry fully.

Remove Cabinet Doors and Hardware

Detach all doors, drawers, shelves, and hardware (knobs and pulls) using a screwdriver. Remove doors/drawers carefully to avoid damaging them. Set aside hardware in a safe area.

Sand Down Surfaces

Lightly sand cabinet boxes, doors, sides etc with 120-150 grit sandpaper. This helps the paint adhere better. Don’t strip down to bare metal. Just scuff up the finish. Wipe away all sanding dust.

Clean and Degrease Again

Give the sanded cabinets another clean with degreasing cleaner or soap and water. Rinse and allow to dry fully. Your cabinets should now be clean and lightly sanded.

Fill Any Holes and Imperfections

Use wood filler, spackle, or putty to fill any holes, scratches or imperfections. Allow filler to dry fully and sand smooth. Thoroughly wipe away dust.

Apply Primer

For best results, use a high-quality primer made for metal. Primer helps the paint stick to slick metal surfaces. Fully coat all cabinet surfaces, nooks, crannies etc. Allow primer to dry per manufacturer’s directions before painting.

Your cabinets are now prepped and ready for spray painting!

Materials Needed for Spray Painting Metal Cabinets

Gather these supplies before starting your spray paint project:

• High-quality primer made for metal
• Paint – enamels, acrylics, or oils designed for metal
• Sandpaper – 120 to 220 grit
• Cleaning supplies – degreaser, soap, rags
• Paint sprayer – HVLP spray gun or airless sprayer
• Drop cloths – canvas, plastic sheeting, or tape
• Masking tape and painter’s tape
• Paint solvent – mineral spirits, acetone
• Stainless steel scrub pads and scouring sponges
• Sanding blocks
• Tack rags to remove dust
• Disposable gloves, safety goggles, respirator
• Paint stir sticks

Choose the right latex or oil-based spray paint for long-lasting, protective finish on metal. Enamel, acrylic, and industrial paints work well for household use. Buy high-quality brushes, rollers, and other applicators. Gather all materials before starting.

How to Spray Paint Metal Cabinets

Follow these key steps when spray painting your cabinets:

Set Up Your Workspace

Work in a well-ventilated area. Cover floors and any nearby surfaces with drop cloths. Have your materials and supplies ready to go. Insert painter’s tape in gaps or edges to prevent paint bleeding.

Adjust Your Spray Gun

Prepare and adjust your paint sprayer per manufacturer’s directions. Adjust the width/spread of the spray pattern. Get a feel for the trigger pressure and how the gun sprays.

Apply Primer Coat

If priming, apply an even primer coat on all cabinet surfaces using steady back and forth motions, 6 to 8 inches from surface. Let dry then lightly sand with fine sandpaper.

Paint Cabinets in Sections

Start with the cabinet frames/boxes. Hold spray gun 6 to 8 inches away pointed perpendicular to surface. Apply color coats in steady, even motions left to right then top to bottom.

Paint Doors Laying Flat

Lay doors on sawhorses or blocks. Spray horizontally first then flip and spray other side. Check for drips and missed spots. Allow to dry fully before reattaching.

Apply Multiple Thin Coats

Apply 3 to 5 thin coats for full coverage, allowing proper dry time between coats. Thinner coats are better than one thick coat. Sand lightly between coats if needed.

Spray Inside Cabinet Boxes

Tape off any areas you don’t want painted inside cabinets. Carefully spray paint the interior surfaces. Remove tape before paint fully dries.

Check for Consistent Coverage

Ensure paint coats are even with no heavy drips or thin spots. Apply additional light coats if needed for full, uniform coverage.

Remove Tape and Reattach Doors/Hardware

Once fully dry, remove all tape. Reattach doors, hardware, and any other components removed before painting using a screwdriver.

Voila! Your metal cabinets are now beautifully spray painted.

Tips for Spray Painting Cabinets Like a Pro

Follow these tips and techniques for getting optimal spray painted results:

• Always read and follow all safety directions for your paint products and spray equipment. Wear protective gear.
• Tape off any nearby walls, counters, appliances etc that you don’t want painted. Use painter’s tape for crisp paint lines.
• Apply multiple thin coats rather than one heavy coat. Thin coats dry faster and result in a smoother finish.
• Keep spray gun perpendicular to the surface and maintain consistent distance while spraying back and forth.
• When spraying cabinet frames, spray horizontally first then vertically for complete coverage in corners and crevices.
• Start spray strokes off the surface and end spray strokes off the surface to avoid drips.
• Work in sections and allow proper dry time between coats. Rushing can ruin the paint job.
• Spray paint has a high spread. Cover surrounding areas to control overspray.
• Check for drips and runs after each coat dries. Sand and recoat any drips before moving on.
• Stir paint frequently while spraying. Thin with solvent if spraying becomes difficult.
• Always spray paint in a well-ventilated area. Wear a respirator if spraying oil-based paints.

Troubleshooting Spray Painted Cabinets

Here are some common spray paint problems and how to fix them:

Drips or Runs in Paint: Allow paint to dry fully, then sand drips smooth before applying next coat.

Paint Not Covering Well: The surface may not have been cleaned, sanded and primed properly. Scuff sand and re-prep area before respraying.

Brush Marks or Textures in Paint: Your spray gun technique may need improvement. Hold spray gun closer to surface and spray in one direction.

Paint Peeling or Chipping: Cabinet surface was likely not primed or prepared properly. Scrape off peeling paint, sand, clean, prime and repaint.

Streaks or Paneling: Paint coats dried at different rates. Wet sand using fine sandpaper to smooth, then respray.

Overspray Texture: Paint droplets dried before reaching the surface. Improve spray technique, thin paint if needed, and spray lighter coats.

Uneven Sheen: Apply additional thin finishing coats on areas that look dull, avoiding drips.

Finishing and Protecting Spray Painted Cabinets

Properly finish your spray painted cabinets for added protection and durability:

• Allow paint to cure fully, up to 2 weeks, before use.
• Clean cabinets with mild soap and water only once fully cured. Avoid harsh cleaners.
• Apply cabinet wax or sealant for added protection and sheen if desired.
• Replace all hardware, tighten hinges, test doors fully before restocking cabinets.
• Touch up any problem paint spots like chips or scratches.
• Keep cabinets dry to prevent moisture damage of painted finish.
• Limit direct heat exposure on cabinet surfaces from appliances like stoves.
• Clean painted cabinets gently using soft cloth and mild cleanser. Avoid abrasives.

Now relax and enjoy your beautiful new spray painted metal cabinets!

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of spray paint is best for metal cabinets?

Enamel, acrylic, and industrial paints formulated for metal work best. Opt for oil-based paint for the most durable finish. Latex acrylics also provide good adhesion on slick metal surfaces.

How long does spray paint take to dry on cabinets?

Depending on paint type, humidity and temperature, spray paint can dry in as little as 30 minutes up to a few hours between coats. Fully curing and hardening can take 1 to 2 weeks.

Can you spray paint cabinet hardware?

Yes, cabinet hardware like knobs and hinges can be spray painted using the same metal paint spray just like the cabinet bodies. Remove hardware and spray separately for best results.

Should I sand cabinets before or after priming?

For best adhesion, it’s best to scuff sand the cabinets before applying primer. This helps the primer grip. Lightly sanding between primer and paint coats also helps.

How do you prepare metal cabinets for painting?

Clean, degrease and sand metal cabinets before painting. Apply at least one coat of a metal bonding primer to ensure the paint adheres properly.

What sheen is best for spray painted cabinets?

A satin or semi-gloss sheen provides a nice subtle shine for cabinets. High-gloss can look too reflective. Matte or flat finishes may show imperfections.

How do I get a smooth finish when spray painting?

Use high quality paint, apply multiple thin coats, allow proper drying time between coats, maintain consistent spray distance, and sand lightly between coats for the smoothest results.

What should I spray paint first, the doors or cabinet boxes?

It’s usually best to spray the cabinet door and sides separately before doing the cabinet boxes. This allows doors ample dry time laying flat.

How do I avoid drips when spray painting cabinets?

Start and end spray strokes off the surface. Don’t overload paint. Apply thinner coats. Hold spray gun closer to surface and perpendicular to cabinet.

Conclusion

Upgrading your worn metal cabinets with a fresh spray painted finish can make a huge difference in the look and feel of your kitchen or bathroom. While spray painting cabinets takes some time and effort, the results are well worth it. Follow the techniques outlined to properly prepare, prime, spray, and finish your metal cabinets like a pro for a durable, smooth, beautiful finish that makes old cabinets look brand new.

How to Clean Spray Paint from Metal Cabinets

Cleaning up spray paint drips or overspray on metal cabinets can be challenging. However, with the right cleaning methods, you can safely remove spray paint without damaging the metal surface underneath. Here are some effective tips for cleaning spray paint off metal cabinets:

Use Paint Solvents

Paint solvents are designed to dissolve and remove paint. Mineral spirits, paint thinner, acetone, or other strong solvents can help cut through and dissolve dripped or over-sprayed paint on metal. Dip a cloth into the solvent and gently rub the paint spot until it begins softening and lifting. Take care not to spread the paint around. Wipe clean with a dry cloth. Test solvents in an inconspicuous spot first.

Scrape Away Paint Drips

For thick, dried drips or runs in the paint, use a plastic paint scraper to gently lift the hardened paint off the metal. Scrape at an angle parallel to the cabinet surface to avoid scratching the metal. Avoid using razor blades or metal scrapers which can gouge the metal.

Use an Abrasive Scouring Pad

For stubborn dried paint, gently rub a stainless steel scouring pad or abrasive sponge over it to remove the paint. Rub lightly and take care not to scratch the metal underneath. Clean the area well when finished. Only use on small areas, not the entire cabinet.

Try Sandpaper

To remove paint drips from large flat areas like cabinet doors or panels, gently sand the dripped paint using 120 grit sandpaper. Use light pressure and sand only until the paint is removed. Be sure to sand just the paint and not the bare metal underneath. Wipe away paint dust when finished.

Use a Heat Gun

A heat gun can soften and lift paint drips and overspray by warming it just enough to loosen the bond. Pass the heat gun slowly over the paint, about 6 inches away. Once softened, gently scrape paint away and wipe clean. Be very careful not to overheat the metal.

Scrub with an Eraser

For light overspray, rub the area using a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser or similar cleaning pad. The mild abrasion can help scrub off the soft paint overspray without damaging the metal surface. Rinse the eraser pad frequently to remove paint residue.

Clean with TSP Substitute

For oil-based paints, a TSP substitute cleaner can be effective for removing paint and greasy residue. Mix according to label and scrub paint spots gently with a nylon bristle brush. Rinse cabinet thoroughly. Use painter’s gloves and proper ventilation.

Be patient when cleaning spray paint from metal, and gentle to avoid scratching the surface. With these cleaning methods, you can safely restore the appearance of your beautiful metal cabinets!

How to Get an Even Spray Paint Finish on Metal Cabinets

Achieving a perfectly smooth, even finish when spray painting metal cabinets takes skill and technique. Here are some tips for getting the best results:

Use High Quality Spray Paint

Invest in a paint designed specifically for metal like enamel, acrylic, or industrial coatings. Cheap paint often has poor coverage and can dry unevenly. Good paint will spray on smoothly.

Prime Cabinets First

Priming ensures paint bonds evenly to slick metal. It also gives the topcoats a uniform base to adhere to, preventing uneven absorption. Use a metal primer for best results.

Properly Adjust Spray Gun

The right spray pattern and pressure ensures even distribution. Adjust nozzle size, pressure, and fan width according to the spray gun manual. Do test sprays first on cardboard.

Maintain Consistent Distance & Speed

Holding the spray gun at an ideal 6 to 8 inches from the surface and moving at a constant speed results in the smoothest coverage. Rushing or inconsistent distance causes uneveness.

Apply Thin, Even Coats

Thinner paint coats create a more uniform, professional looking finish. Heavier coats tend to show texture and are prone to drips. Allow proper drying between 3 to 5 thin coats.

Vertical First, Then Horizontal

When spraying cabinet sides and fronts, apply paint vertically first. Then follow with a pass horizontally for corners. This prevents thin edges and uneven paint buildup.

Check Coverage & Sand if Needed

Inspect prior coats before adding more paint. Lightly sand any imperfections smooth using fine sandpaper between coats to ensure subsequent coats apply evenly.

Control Temperature & Humidity

Paint dries unevenly in cooler damp conditions. Warm, dry environments allow for smooth, consistent drying. Avoid painting on extremely hot surfaces or in direct sun.

Spray, Don’t Brush or Roll

It’s nearly impossible to achieve a flawless finish using a brush or roller on cabinets. Only spray painting provides the control needed for perfectly uniform coverage.

With the right spray paint products and some practice with technique, you can achieve a beautifully smooth, professional spray paint finish on metal cabinets. Take your time and don’t rush the process. The results will be worth it!

Common Problems When Spray Painting Metal Cabinets

Spray painting metal cabinets can yield beautiful results but also presents some challenges. Here are some common spray paint problems and tips to avoid them:

Drips and Runs

Drips form when too much paint accumulates and gravity takes over. Avoid this by spraying thin coats, moving the gun at a steady speed, and keeping the nozzle perpendicular to the surface.

Textures and Brush Marks

Paint textures can occur when paint is applied too thick and dried unevenly. Use high quality paint, hold the spray gun closer to the surface, and use proper spraying motions.

Overspray Texture

Overspray texture forms when paint droplets partially dry before reaching the surface. To prevent this, use optimal spray technique, adjust pressure, thin paint if needed, and apply lighter coats.

Streaking or Paneling

Streaks arise when some areas dry faster than others. Wet sand using fine sandpaper to smooth and feather out unevenness before respraying.

Poor Adhesion

Paint not properly bonding to the metal indicates improper surface prep. Always clean, sand, and prime metal surfaces prior to painting for proper adhesion.

Uneven Sheen

Variations in paint sheen mean the coats did not cure evenly. Apply additional thin finishing coats on dull spots to even out sheen.

Cracking or Chipping

Cracking or paint chips flaking off is likely due to inadequate primer, compromised paint, or applying too thick a coat. Proper metal prep and quality paint prevents this.

Bleeding Under Tape Lines

Paint bleeding under taped edges happens when the tape doesn’t adhere tightly. Only use high quality painter’s tape and press it firmly to metal edges for crisp paint lines.

Discoloration

If the original paint color changes after drying, the metal was not properly cleaned and primed first. Yellowing occurs on slick metals without primer.

Slow down and take time with each step when spray