Removal of Hardware

• Remove all the drawers from the cabinets. You may need to tip them forward or back to release them from any existing hardware. It is a wise idea to use a pencil to number the drawers and cabinet doors upon removal. This helps you put them back in the correct order. Remove the hinges and screws that hold each door in place. Place all the hardware into a zipper-style plastic bag so that you won't lose it. Use a screwdriver to remove door handles and any drawer pulls. Remove any other hardware or adjustable shelving.
  
  

Preparation of the Cabinet Surfaces

• Wash the kitchen cabinets. This allows the paint to adhere better to the surface. Use trisodium phosphate mixed with warm water and a sponge to clean the cabinets. It is effective in removing grease and food residue from the surfaces. You can find this cleaner at hardware, discount and home-supply stores. Rinse the cabinets with a clean, damp sponge and allow them to dry. Fill in any dents or deep scratches in the cabinets with a drywall compound or wood filler. Sand the cabinet surfaces with a 120 grit sandpaper. This helps the paint bond to the surface. Use masking tape in areas you don't want to get any paint splatters on, or that are close to surfaces you don't want to paint.
  
  

Primer Application

• If you are making a dramatic change in the color of your kitchen cabinets or trying to paint over a dark shade of paint, use a quality primer to cover all areas first. Use a mini paint roller to prime the interior of the cabinets. This makes it less difficult to get into the corners. Use a small paint brush to coat small areas, such as the back of the drawer face and door edges. Do not remove any masking tape until the primer is dry. Full-size paint rollers make priming and painting the cabinet doors a quick process. A quality trim brush is useful in painting the inside and outside frame of the cabinets. Allow the primer to dry thoroughly before continuing with the paint color.
  
  

Painting the Color

• Latex acrylic or enamel paints are useful in painting kitchen cabinets since they wash well with soap and water. Paint the cabinets with the color using the same method as the primer. Allow the paint to dry thoroughly according to the directions on the can. It may be necessary to use two or three coats of paint, particularly if you are making a dramatic color change. Replace all the existing hardware as you mount the doors and replace the drawers.