What Type of Primer to Use on Enamel Kitchen Paint

Availability

• Enamel undercoat primer is available at your local hardware, home improvement and paint stores/outlets. The primer is also available from online hardware and paint stores and outlets. Purchase the same amount of primer as paint -- you don’t want to run out halfway through the priming process. If you purchase 2 gallons of enamel paint, purchase 2 gallons of enamel undercoat primer.

Cleaning

• Wipe the kitchen surface with a soft, damp cloth or rag to remove any dust, dirt and debris. Use a soapy water-soaked or degreaser-soaked cloth or rag to remove any caked-on debris. Wear latex gloves to keep your hands clean and dry. Dry the surface with a clean cloth or rag.

Sanding

• Purchase a package of 220-grit or higher sandpaper and sand the surface thoroughly until smooth. Use a new piece of sandpaper when the old piece becomes too soiled or smooth. Use a 220-grit or higher sanding sponge for areas you can’t reach with sandpaper. Wipe the kitchen surface with a clean, wet cloth or rag to remove any sand dust and debris. Dry the surface with a large towel. Sandpaper and sanding sponges are also available at hardware, home improvement and paint stores as well as online outlets.

Applying

• Use a paint roller or brush to apply one coat of enamel undercoat primer evenly on the kitchen surface. Let the primer dry according to the recommended time on the primer’s container. Do not let the paint roller or brush run dry -- this will cause streaks and uneven layers of primer on the kitchen surface. Apply a second coat once the first coat is dry. Work in a well-ventilated area and wear a nose mask to keep from inhaling the primer and paint fumes.