Drab to Fab

Want to know how to go from this...

To this....

No?

I don't either...because we all want this...

Unfortunately, a "just out of college" rent budget gets you one bar stool from that kitchen...so back to the cabinets.

What you need:

the 8 P's

Permission from your landlord...In writing!
TSP- to clean the grease off of  your cabinets
Plastic To cover the area where you are working

Push pins so your cabinets don't stick to the plastic

Primer If you cabinets are laminates you need to get a "sealer" primer...I used the B.I.N. primer from Zinsser
Paper- 200 grit sand paper
Paint Oil-based or 100% acrylic latex paint

What you need to do:

Prep is the most important step in this entire process...you really should spend more time prepping than painting...but if you are anything like me that is an unrealistic expectation. 

1) Remove all of the doors and hardware (keep your hardware in a plastic bag and set aside)
2) Set up a work area and cover it with plastic.
3) Clean your doors with TSP-it is essential...you can find it at the Depot in the paint department. It is a powerful de-greaser...let dry
4) Lightly sand the doors with 200 grit sand paper- just to roughen up the finish and then wipe down with a damp wash cloth...let dry
5) Use the push pins to raise each door up above the plastic. I didn't take a photo of this...but here is what it should look like

http://www.positivelysplendid.com/2012/01/12-why-didnt-i-think-of-that-tips-by.html

*** I must warn you about brushes. Please buy the best brushes that you can afford. Let's be honest, when the writer of a blog that has "paid with pennies" in the title tells you to spend money you should trust her***

5) Prime all surfaces- 1 coat is all you need. Let dry.

6) Sand again...lightly-Sanded primer is a good thing. Sanding compresses and hardens primer..wipe with a damp cloth. Let dry.

7) Paint-Don't dip your brush more than about an inch or so up the bristles-If you have to stop painting half way through wrap your brush tightly with plastic wrap and store it  in the freezer.

8) Paint again- 2 coats should be plenty...yep, you guessed it...let dry
9) Hang up the doors and re-attach the hardware.