How to Paint a Kitchen: A Step-by-Step Guide
Materials You’ll Need
Equipment / Tools:
- 1 paintbrush, 2 1/2-inch
- 1 roller frame
- 3 roller covers
- 1 paint tray
- 3 paint tray liners
- 2 canvas drop cloths
- 1 dust mask or respirator
- 1 shop vacuum
- 2 tack cloths
- 2 soft, clean cotton rags
Materials:
- 2 gallons interior acrylic-latex paint, satin or eggshell
- 1 gallon primer
- 4 packs masking film
- 1 roll painter’s tape
- 1 box TSP (tri-sodium phosphate) or alternative
Step 1: Determine the Area to be Painted
Calculate the square footage of your walls to determine the amount of paint you need. For new construction, multiply the wall height (typically 8 feet) by the length of each wall and add the results. Subtract the area of windows and doors for a more precise figure.
Tip: Consider purchasing slightly more paint than calculated to account for touch-ups and wastage.
Step 2: Choose the Kitchen Paint
Select paint colors that complement your kitchen cabinets and flooring. Consider the kitchen’s usage and choose a paint finish that is durable and easy to clean, such as eggshell, satin, or semi-gloss.
Step 3: Clean Most Surfaces to Be Painted
For areas with grease buildup, use a degreaser like TSP (tri-sodium phosphate) mixed with warm water. Remove dust and cobwebs from trim with a vacuum and damp cloth.
Step 4: Let the Kitchen Dry
Allow the surfaces to dry completely before painting. Open windows or use a fan to circulate air.
Step 5: Mask and Cover the Kitchen
Protect floors, cabinets, appliances, and other surfaces with canvas drop cloths, plastic sheeting, or masking film.
Tip: Canvas drop cloths offer better grip and can be reused.
Step 6: Apply Painter’s Tape
Apply painter’s tape to trim and areas that should not be painted. Press firmly to prevent paint bleed-through.
Step 7: Apply Primer
Primer is necessary for unpainted drywall, bare wood, and painted surfaces in poor condition. Use a roller for large areas and a brush for smaller areas.
Tip: Use a roller or sprayer for unfurnished kitchens. For furnished kitchens, use a brush for small areas.
Step 8: Roll the Large Areas
Pour a small amount of paint into the tray and soak the roller cover. Roll out excess paint. Apply the paint to walls in a W-pattern, starting about an inch from the painter’s tape.
Step 9: Brush the Paint
After the paint has dried for a few hours, use a brush to paint areas the roller could not reach. Avoid drips by applying minimal paint and re-brushing only recently painted sections.
Step 10: Apply Additional Coats
For a richer color and durability, apply two or three coats of paint. Allow each coat to dry for at least two hours before re-rolling or re-brushing.
Troubleshooting: When to Call a Professional
Painting a kitchen is generally within the skillset of DIYers. However, consider hiring a professional painter if your kitchen has a large or complex layout, high ceilings, or unusual geometry.