This article provides step-by-step instructions on prepare, prime and paint a metal storage cabinet. Get your cabinets looking new for a small cost and some elbow grease! Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
Prepare for Painting
1. If possible, take the cabinet apart for easy painting. Label the pieces with masking tape and create a diagram to remember reassemble the cabinet.
2. Use the paint scraper to remove any large, flaking pieces of paint.
3. Use the orbital sander with a fine-grit sandpaper or a piece of fine-grit sandpaper to lightly buff the surface. You do not need to sand all of the existing paint off, just create a buffed surface so the paint has a better surface to adhere to.
4. Use the rag and bucket of water to clean the cabinet of paint debris after sanding. Make sure the cabinet is completely free of dust and completely dry before priming.
Prime and Paint
5. Apply metal primer to the cabinet. The primer does not need to be applied liberally. Apply a thin coat and let dry completely. For the motivated, after drying completely, finely sand the primed surface and clean from debris. This will ensure that the surface is very smooth so the final coat of paint looks truly professional.
6. After completely dry, apply the metal paint. Again, do not apply an excessive amount of paint on the first coat for complete coverage. Allowing the first coat to dry and adding a second for complete coverage will render better results.
7. Let paint dry for the recommended time per the paint's instructions in a well-ventilated area before reassembling or using the cabinet. Drying times will vary; paint should not be tacky after ample drying time.
8. Reassemble your cabinet or begin filling with your items. Following the instructions above will allow for a professional and quality paint job to last years to come!
Tags: cabinet paint, complete coverage, fine-grit sandpaper, first coat
