kitchen with furniture and appliances

Cabinet Revamp Guide

Revamp kitchen cabinets on a budget with paint, new hardware, and pro DIY techniques — and give your kitchen a fresh new look without the cost of a full remodel.

Tools & Materials

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Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Remove Cabinet Doors & Hardware
    Label doors and hinges for easy reassembly. Use a screwdriver or drill to remove handles and hinges.
  2. Clean Thoroughly
    Use a degreaser or heavy-duty cleaner to remove oils, grime, and residue.
  3. Lightly Sand the Surfaces
    Use fine-grit sandpaper or a sanding block to dull the sheen and help paint stick. Wipe clean.
  4. Apply Primer
    Use a bonding primer for slick surfaces like laminate. Apply thin, even coats and let dry fully.
  5. Paint the Cabinets
    Use a small foam roller for flat areas and an angled brush for corners and details. Apply 2-3 thin coats. [Need help brushing and rolling like a pro? Checkout our Painting Guide for step-by-step help.]
  6. Let Cure Completely
    Allow cabinets to dry and cure fully (24-48 hours) before reattaching doors or hardware.
  7. Add New Hardware
    Install updated handles, knobs, or pulls to complete the transformation.

Pro Tips for a Flawless Finish

Label everything — Put tape on cabinet doors and drawers with numbers so you know exactly where each one goes.

Don’t skip the degreasing — Cabinets in kitchens collect hidden grime that can ruin paint adhesion.

Use cabinet-specific paint — These are designed to resist chips, stains, and moisture.

Let each coat dry fully — Rushing between coats can lead to tackiness or streaks.

Upgrade your hardware — Even budget knobs or pulls can make the entire cabinet feel brand new.

Take Your Kitchen to the Next Level

New cabinet color? Let’s finish the look. Add style and splash protection with our Tile Backsplash Guide — the perfect next step.

Your Kitchen, Your Way

This cabinet revamp is just the beginning. Explore more DIY guides and learn how to transform you space without breaking the bank.

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Cabinet Painting Must-Haves

These tools deliver pro-level results at a fraction of the cost — perfect for any beginner looking to revamp kitchen cabinets on a budget.

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