How to Spray Paint Metal Filing Cabinet

Spray painting a metal filing cabinet can give it a fresh, updated look without having to buy a new one. With some preparation and the right paint, you can easily transform the look of your old filing cabinet. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to properly spray paint a metal filing cabinet to get professional looking results.

Gather Your Supplies

Before starting to spray paint, make sure you have all the necessary supplies:

• Spray paint designed for metal surfaces – Look for paint specifically made for metal, such as Rust-Oleum. For best results, choose satin, semi-gloss, or gloss sheens.
• Paint primer – A primer will help the paint adhere to the surface better. Use a metal primer.
• Sandpaper – Lightly sanding helps paint adhere. Get fine grit sandpaper.
• Painters tape – To mask off areas you don’t want painted.
• Drop cloths – To protect floors and surroundings from paint drips.
• Paint brush – For corners and edges. Get a high-quality bristle brush.
• Rags – For wiping away dust after sanding. Old t-shirts work well.
• Painter’s mask – To avoid inhaling paint fumes.

Prepare the Filing Cabinet

Proper preparation is crucial for getting good results when spray painting metal. Follow these steps:

• Clean the surface thoroughly with soap and water to remove any dirt, oil or grease.
• Lightly sand using fine grit sandpaper. This helps the paint adhere to the metal.
• Wipe away all dust with a tack cloth or rag.
• Apply painter’s tape around hinges, handles or any areas you don’t want painted.
• Lay down drop cloths in the area you’ll be working in. Cover floors and any surfaces around the cabinet.
• Take cabinet doors off if possible to make spraying easier.

Apply Primer

Priming the metal ensures better paint adhesion and provides a base layer for more even coverage.

• Use a spray primer formulated for metal surfaces. Shake the can for 60 seconds before spraying.
• Hold the can 6-8 inches from the surface and apply light, even coats using a side to side sweeping motion.
• Let the primer dry completely. Check the can for exact drying times.
• Once dry, lightly sand again with fine grit sandpaper and wipe away any dust with a tack cloth.

Spray on Paint

Now you’re ready to apply the spray paint. Work in thin coats, building up to the recommended thickness.

• Shake spray paint can vigorously for at least one minute.
• Hold can 6-8 inches from the surface. Keep can in motion and overlap strokes.
• Apply 2-3 thin coats rather than one thick coat, allowing proper drying time between coats.
• Start spraying off the object, press spray button and then sweep across in a steady motion.
• Be sure to get into crevices and underside of cabinet top for full coverage.
• Allow each coat to dry completely before adding another. Check the can for exact drying times.
• Finish with smooth strokes in one direction to avoid blotchiness.

Finish Cabinets and Reassemble

Once the final coat is dry, you can complete cabinets and put them back together.

• For doors and handles, use a small paint brush to carefully paint around hinges and edges.
• Remove any painters tape and touch up edges if needed.
• Allow paint to cure fully before reattaching doors and hardware. Check can for cure time.
• Once cured, reattach doors, handles, and any hardware using a screwdriver.
• Return contents to the newly painted cabinet and enjoy your updated look!

Proper preparation, priming, and applying thin coats creates a smooth, professional spray painted finish on metal filing cabinets. Follow these tips and take your time for best results. The new paint will give life to your old filing cabinet.

Frequently Asked Questions About Spray Painting Metal Filing Cabinets

How long does spray paint take to dry on a metal filing cabinet?

On average, spray paint will dry to the touch in 30 minutes to an hour. However, drying times can vary based on humidity, temperature, and ventilation. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations and allow each coat to dry thoroughly between applications for best results.

What kind of primer should be used?

It’s best to use a primer formulated specifically for metal when spray painting a metal filing cabinet. Metal primers help prevent rust and deterioration, while providing maximum paint adhesion.

What sheen of spray paint works best?

For a metal filing cabinet, satin, semi-gloss, and gloss paint sheens work best. They are durable and easy to clean. Flat or matte finishes may show imperfections in the metal surface.

Should the filing cabinet be sanded before painting?

Lightly sanding with fine grit sandpaper before priming helps the paint better adhere to the metal surface. Be sure to wipe away dust with a tack cloth when done.

How do you get a smooth finish when spray painting?

Applying multiple thin coats and allowing proper drying time between coats will create the smoothest finish. Keep the spray can about 6-8 inches from the surface and keep the can moving while spraying.

What kind of spray pattern should be used?

For broad surfaces like filing cabinets, use a wide spray pattern to cover the area more efficiently. The spray nozzle on the can can be adjusted for different spray patterns.

How long does it take for spray paint to fully cure?

Most spray paints take 24-48 hours to fully cure. Do not reattach doors or handles until the paint has completely cured to avoid sticking. Check the manufacturer’s cure times.

Conclusion

Upgrading kitchen cabinets with a fresh coat of spray paint is an affordable way to update the look of your kitchen without undertaking a full renovation. The key is proper preparation, priming, applying thin even coats, and allowing proper drying time between coats. With some simple steps, and these spray painting tips, you can achieve a smooth, professional looking finish. Spray painting provides a budget-friendly way to give your outdated cabinets new life.