How to Spray Paint Metal File Cabinet

Spray painting a metal file cabinet can completely transform the look of your office or workspace. With a fresh coat of paint, you can update a boring, outdated cabinet into something stylish and modern. Painting metal furniture may seem daunting, but it can actually be a pretty straightforward DIY project if you follow some key steps. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to successfully spray paint a metal file cabinet, from proper preparation to applying finishing coats. Arm yourself with the right supplies, take the time to properly prep your cabinet, and you’ll be amazed by the dramatic results.

Why Spray Paint a Metal File Cabinet?

There are many great reasons to give your old metal file cabinet a fresh makeover with spray paint:

• Update the look – Over time, metal cabinets can start to look worn, scratched or just plain outdated. A new coat of spray paint in a modern, stylish color provides an instant facelift.
• Match your décor – Spray painting allows you to customize your cabinet so it coordinates with your office or workspace design scheme.
• Camouflage flaws – Painting can mask dents, scratches, stains and other imperfections in the metal.
• Protect from rust – Fresh paint seals and protects the metal from rust and corrosion.
• Self-expression – Turn your utilitarian filing cabinet into a statement piece by getting creative with paint techniques and colors.
• Cost effective – Spray painting a cabinet is an affordable and dramatic update compared to buying a brand new one.

So if your filing cabinet has seen better days, grab a can of spray paint and give it new life! The transformation will likely inspire you to tackle more DIY projects around the home or office.

Supplies Needed to Spray Paint a Metal File Cabinet

Spray painting requires more supplies and tools than simply using a paint brush. Here are the essential items you’ll need:

Paint and Primers

• Primer – Primer creates a uniform surface for paint to adhere to. For metal, use a rust-inhibiting primer.
• Spray paint – Any brand of all-purpose spray paint formulated for metal will work. Choose satin, semi-gloss or gloss sheen.
• Clear sealer – A clear acrylic sealer spray helps protect the finish.

Supplies for Prepping and Painting

• Sandpaper – For sanding smooth any rough spots on the cabinet.
• TSP substitute – Also called Trisodium Phosphate. Helps remove grease and residue.
• Rags – For wiping down the cabinet while prepping it.
• Painter’s tape – For masking off areas you don’t want painted.Blue tape works best.
• Drop cloths – To protect floors and other surfaces from drips and overspray.
• Painters plastic – To isolate your workspace from the rest of the room.
• High quality brush – For applying primer and paint to hard-to-reach crevices.
• Paint tray – For holding primer/paint when brushing details.
• Stir sticks – For mixing up cans of paint/primer.
• Rags & tack cloth – For wiping away dust nibs between coats.
• Gloves & respirator – For protecting your hands and lungs.

Tools

• Orbital sander – To quickly sand off rust and rough texture, if needed.
• Sanding blocks – For hand sanding smaller areas.
• Utility knife – For cutting painter’s tape.
• Painters tool/5-in-1 – For scraping off loose paint.
• 150-220 grit sandpaper – For sanding metal prior to priming.
• Masking tape – For covering hardware, handles, etc.
• Rags & tack cloth – For wiping away dust between sanding and painting.

How to Prepare a Metal File Cabinet for Spray Painting

Prepping your file cabinet is the most important step to ensure the paint adheres properly and delivers a smooth, long-lasting finish. Here’s how to prep metal for a flawless spray painted finish:

1. Empty the File Cabinet

Remove all folders, contents and hanging file frames so interior surfaces can be fully prepped and painted.

2. Disassemble Drawers

Use a Phillips head screwdriver to detach any handles and hardware so drawers and doors can be removed. Removing them makes prepping and painting the cabinet much easier.

3. Clean Surfaces

Give the cabinet a thorough cleaning using a degreasing cleaner like TSP substitute mixed with warm water. This helps remove dirt, grease and oil that can interfere with paint adhesion.

4. Lightly Scuff the Metal

Use 150-220 grit sandpaper to scuff and rough up the surface just enough for paint to grasp onto. Wipe with a tack cloth after sanding to remove dust.

5. Sand Rough Areas

If there are areas of significant rust, scratches or flaking paint, use more vigorous sanding to smooth and prepare these spots so they’ll blend with the newly painted finish. Wipe clean after sanding.

6. Remove Cabinet Hardware

Unscrew any handles, hinges or other hardware. Set screws aside in a labeled bag so you can easily reattach later.

7. Clean and Dry

Give the fully prepped cabinet a final wipedown with a clean, damp rag. Let dry fully before applying primer.

Thorough prep removes any barrier between the raw metal and your primer/paint so they bond tightly. Now the cabinet is ready for painting!

How to Spray Paint a Metal File Cabinet

Follow these steps for a smooth, professional-looking spray painted finish on your metal file cabinet:

1. Mask Off Areas

Use painter’s tape to mask off any areas you don’t want painted, such as the interior of drawers or cabinet. Remove drawers and doors completely for easiest access.

2. Apply Primer

It’s crucial to start with a coat of primer formulated especially for metal. This helps the paint adhere tightly. Lightly sand glossy primers before painting.

3. Spray the First Coat

Working in a well-ventilated area, hold the can 6-8 inches from the surface and spray using light, even strokes. Let dry completely before spraying again.

4. Sand Lightly

Once fully dry, you can give the primer a very light sanding with fine sandpaper to smooth any drips or rough spots. Wipe clean.

5. Spray Second Coat

Apply a second complete coat of your chosen spray paint color, using the same spraying technique. Let dry fully.

6. Apply Third Coat

For maximum durability and a rich finish, apply a third and final coat of spray paint.

7. Remove Tape and Reattach Hardware

Once thoroughly dry, carefully remove all painter’s tape. Reattach any hardware you removed using a screwdriver.

8. Apply Protective Clear Coat (Optional)

For extra shine and protection, finish off your painted cabinet with 1-2 coats of acrylic clear sealer spray.

Take your time with each step, allowing sufficient drying time between coats for best results. The effort pays off in a gorgeously updated filing cabinet!

Tips for Spray Painting Metal Furniture

Follow these handy tips as you spray paint metal filing cabinets, desks, shelves and other furniture:

• Always read and follow the paint can directions. Pay attention to dry time, recommended coats, proper surface prep, etc.
• Work outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. Wear a respirator to avoid inhaling paint vapors.
• Remove drawers and doors to make spraying easier. Use painter’s tape to mask off areas as needed.
• Use light, even passes with the spray can, holding it 6 to 8 inches away. Avoid holding the nozzle too close or you risk drips.
• Apply thin coats and allow proper drying time between layers. Rushing the job can cause drips, runs and uneven coverage.
• When spraying the fronts of cabinets and furniture, spray side to side rather than up and down to avoid drips.
• Sand lightly between coats for a super smooth finish. Always wipe away dust before spraying again.
• Spray painting in warm temperatures (70-90°F) provides the best results. Avoid cold, humid days.
• Work carefully around corners, hardware and ornate details. Use a small brush for hard-to-reach areas.
• Finish off with a clear acrylic sealer for added protection and sheen.

With attention to detail at each stage, spray painting can totally transform plain metal furniture. Take your time and don’t rush the process. The end results will be well worth it!

Common Questions About Spray Painting Metal Furniture

Still have some questions about giving your metal file cabinet or other furniture a makeover with spray paint? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

Can I spray paint over rust?

For best results, sand away all rust and prime the metal before painting. The primer helps protect against future rust. If there’s extensive rust, use a rust converter primer before painting.

What sheen of spray paint works best?

Satin, semi-gloss and high-gloss spray paints all perform well on metal. Consider where the piece will live and your own preference. Satin is versatile for many spaces.

Do I need to use primer?

Always prime metal before painting! Primer helps the paint adhere tightly. For metal, use a rust-inhibiting primer made specifically for metal.

How long does spray paint take to dry?

Most spray paint dries to the touch in 30 minutes to 1 hour. But allow the full drying time stated on the can (often 24-48 hours) before use or applying another coat. Insufficient drying can ruin the finish.

Can I use spray paint on plastic file cabinets?

Yes, you can use it on plastic filing cabinets but be sure to select paint formulated specifically for plastic. Scuff up glossy plastic before priming for better adhesion.

How do I avoid drips when spray painting?

Work in light, even strokes and don’t hold the can too close to the surface. Apply thin coats. Allow proper drying time between coats. Spray side-to-side rather than up-and-down.

What’s the best way to spray paint the interior?

It’s best to remove drawers completely and spray the cabinet interior outdoors if possible. If not, carefully tape off the edges and spray lightly to avoid drips.

With the right tools, preparation and technique, spray painting metal file cabinets delivers stunning results! Take your time and don’t try to rush through the process. The investment of effort pays off in a revamped cabinet and office space you’ll absolutely love.

Conclusion

Spray painting metal file cabinets and furniture is an easy, cost-effective way to give them an instant facelift. Proper preparation is crucial to ensure the paint adheres smoothly and lasts over time. Sand, clean, prime, and apply multiple thin coats of spray paint for the best results. Using high-quality primer and paint combined with attention to detail leads to a gorgeous spray painted finish. With a little time and effort, you can transform the look of your workspace without spending a fortune. So get creative with spray paint and give those worn filing cabinets a stylish new look!