How to Paint an Outdated Kitchen

Select a color based on the mood of the room. Consider whether you will refinish the cabinets and countertops after or before painting. Try using a dark color to highlight architectural aspects of the kitchen or a light color for kitchens that are small or have limited natural light.

Pick a few paint sample cards of the colors you are considering. Hold each sample card up against different walls in the kitchen with the lights turned on and off to see how the color will look. Select colors that are available in semigloss latex-based paints, since this is the finish recommended for kitchen walls and surfaces.

Prepare the kitchen for painting by moving furniture that rests against the walls and removing items from the countertops. Use painter’s tape to tape off where the ceiling and countertops meet the wall, around the cabinets and around the trim. Place a dropcloth over the countertops and furniture that remain to prevent splatters or spills.

Wash the walls using a mixture of warm water and trisodium phosphate. Purchase TSP in the paint department of the local hardware or paint supply store. Dip a sponge in the cleaning solution and wring it out before using it to wash the walls. Do not oversaturate the walls or trim. Allow the surfaces to dry completely before painting.

Apply a thin coat of primer to the walls to help the new paint color stick and to prevent over-application of the top coat.

Paint the trim of the room using a 2-inch trim paintbrush. Paint in one direction to prevent streaks or uneven paint lines.

Paint the walls using a paint roller and the desired top coat color. Place a small amount of paint into the paint tray’s reservoir and roll the roller into the paint. Evenly coat the roller by rolling it against the flat surface of the tray.

Roll the paint onto the wall working in a 3-foot section. Create a W shape on the wall, keeping the roller against the surface at all times. Continue to paint over the wall moving vertically the entire time. Allow the first coat of paint to dry before applying a second coat, if needed.