Prepare the work surface by lying out a drop cloth where the cabinet doors and drawers will be painted and in the kitchen to cover any areas where paint can drip. Use a thin strip of painter's tape on the joint where the wall and kitchen cabinet meets to prevent paint from getting on the kitchen wall.
Remove any hardware such as knobs and hinges from the doors, frames and cabinet drawers.
Use 80-grit sandpaper on the surface of the cabinets to remove the glossy coating protecting the fiber board. Continue sanding until the glossy coating has been completely removed.
Wipe down the cabinets with a damp washcloth. Make sure to remove all dust and debris particles, otherwise these will show up in the wood after painting.
Use a small paint roller equipped with a 3/8-inch nap roller to apply a thin coat of primer to the surface of the cabinets. Use a nylon brush for tight corners and areas where the roller cannot reach. Allow the primer to dry overnight.
Apply a thin coat of top coat using a latex-based semi-gloss in the desired color. Semi-gloss is more resistant to mold and mildew and will provide easier cleanup for grease and dirt stains. Allow the first coat to dry completely and apply a second coat, if needed.
Wait for the cabinets to dry overnight before replacing hardware and reinstalling the cabinets.