Can I Spray Something on My Cabinets to Give Them a Glazed Look?

Spray-Only Glazes

• Most glazing techniques are done with brushes and rags, but there are some that can be done with spray techniques. Spray-only glazes cannot be applied by hand because they dry so quickly that hand application will not work. They must be applied with a paint sprayer/air compressor combo. These glazes are made with the color pigments and a solvent-like acetone that dries exceptionally fast. This speed of drying means they have limited uses.

  These glazes can be bought already mixed or created from pigments and clear glaze base. Adding additional base to premixed glazes allows for better control of the color. They can be used on wood that has been prepainted/stained or just sealed and sanded. After spraying on the glaze, remove the excess with the synthetic scouring pad and blow off the dust with an air compressor. Brushing it off leaves striations, so don't do this unless that is the look preferred. After glazing, spray with a clear topcoat and let dry.

Aerosol Spray Glaze

• Because of the desire to control the application pressure and ratio of pigment to glazing base, aerosol cans of premixed glaze were not available until recently. If the person spraying the product does not use uniform pressure on the sprayer, there is a possibility of uneven coating. Plus, an aerosol spray would have more of a tendency to run than products applied with a sprayer/compressor. However, people wanting to use a spray product but not buy an air compressor created a demand that marketers decided to supply.

The Brush-on Method

• The brush-on method for glazing is easier to learn and does not require an air compressor. It is also slower because it is done by hand. The basic method is to mix the glaze and thinner, then apply a small amount with a brush and wipe it off. Work on only one cabinet door at a time until it is finished. This method is more forgiving and better for beginners to try.

Work With Someone Who Knows

• If all of these methods seem overwhelming, maybe the best method is to call a professional to do the job instead. Not everyone is meant to be a do-it-yourselfer. Some people are meant to use the telephone and have the job done right the first time.