How to Paint Over Formica Cabinets

If you are stuck with old, outdated Formica cabinets, you might be wondering just how to reinvigorate them. Replacing them may be expensive, but painting them might do the trick. A quick coat of paint can completely change the look and feel of your Formica cupboards and take them from drab and dingy to renewed and beautiful. Most of the supplies for this project are available at your local home improvement or hardware store.

Step 1

Remove the hardware from the cabinets, including hinges. Place cabinet doors and drawers in a well-ventilated area.

Step 2

Clean the surface of the Formica with clean water and a sponge. Dry completely. Put on your safety goggles.

Step 3

Sand the cabinets with fine-grade sandpaper to rough up the surface. Roughing up the surface of the cabinets allows the paint to adhere properly. Remove all dust with a soft cloth. Tape any areas you don't want painted with painter's tape.

Step 4

Apply one coat of primer paint with a paint roller to all of the cabinet surfaces. Allow to dry completely.

Step 5

Apply a coat of latex paint to the surface of the cabinets and allow to dry thoroughly. Apply one more coat if desired and allow to dry. Once dry, remove the painter's tape carefully.

Step 6

Reattach hardware and hinges to the cabinets. Reattach cabinet doors and drawers to the cabinets.
Skill

Moderately Easy

Things You'll Need

Screwdriver
Water
Sponge
Safety goggles
Fine-grade sandpaper
Soft cloth
Painter's tape
Primer paint
Latex paint
Paint rollers