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How to Reface a Cabinet With Satin Enamel

Refacing your kitchen cabinets is a less expensive alternative to replacing them. Whether you are on a tight budget or you just want a quick kitchen renovation, try painting the cabinets with satin enamel paint. The paint leaves a glossy finish to the cabinets, which makes the room look and feel new again. Refacing a cabinet with satin enamel paint requires stripping the original paint or stain from the cabinets.

Things You'll Need

  • Screwdriver
  • Newspapers
  • Paint stripper
  • Paint scraper
  • Rags
  • 220-grit sandpaper
  • Primer
  • Short paint roller
  • Paintbrush
  • Satin enamel paint
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Instructions

    • 1

      Take off the cabinet door from the cabinet by removing the hinges with a screwdriver then set it on a pile of old newspapers. Apply a thin layer of paint stripper to the cabinet door and let sit according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Scrape off the paint or stain from the door with a paint scraper. Depending on how many coats of paint are on the cabinet door, you may need to repeat the process several times.

    • 2

      Wipe the cabinet door down with a damp rag to remove any paint residue. Rub a dry rag over the cabinet door to remove any dry residue or paint scrapings. Sand down the surface of the cabinet door with 220-grit sandpaper. Wipe off any sawdust with a dry rag.

    • 3

      Apply an even coating of primer to the cabinet door with a short paint roller and paintbrush. The primer creates a smooth surface for the paint and reduces the need for multiple coats. Use the paintbrush for areas with raised or carved designs.

    • 4

      Paint the cabinet door with satin enamel paint. Apply one coat with the paint roller and use the paintbrush for decorative areas. Wait for the paint to completely dry before applying a second coat.

    • 5

      Repeat the process on the other areas of the cabinet, including the sides and edges on the wall. Sand and paint the insides of the cabinet and the back of the cabinet door. Once the paint dries, reattach the cabinet doors.