My Experience Painting Bathroom Cabinets With Chalk Paint
A few months ago, I decided it was time to give my bathroom a little makeover. One of the biggest eyesores in the room were the outdated, dark wood cabinets. I didn’t want to replace them, but I also didn’t want to spend a ton of money on a professional refinishing job. After doing some research, I decided to try painting my bathroom cabinets with chalk paint. Here’s what I learned:
What is Chalk Paint?
Chalk paint is a type of paint that has a matte, chalky finish. It’s popular for DIY projects because it requires little to no prep work and can be used on a variety of surfaces. Chalk paint is also known for its ability to create a shabby-chic, vintage look.
Step-by-Step Guide to Painting Bathroom Cabinets with Chalk Paint
1. Remove all hardware from the cabinets.
2. Clean the cabinets with soap and water, and let them dry completely.
3. Sand the cabinets lightly to remove any rough spots or peeling paint.
4. Apply a coat of chalk paint to the cabinets, using a brush or foam roller. Let the paint dry completely.
5. Apply a second coat of chalk paint, if needed. Let it dry completely.
6. Optional: Apply a clear wax or polyurethane to protect the finish.
7. Reattach the hardware to the cabinets.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Painting Bathroom Cabinets with Chalk Paint
- Choose a light color to brighten up your bathroom.
- Use a primer if your cabinets are dark or have a glossy finish.
- Experiment with different distressing techniques to achieve your desired look.
- Consider replacing the hardware for an updated look.
- Use a foam roller for a smoother finish.
- Apply the paint in thin, even coats.
- Let each coat dry completely before applying the next.
- Use a sanding block to distress the cabinets after the paint has dried.
- Apply a clear wax or polyurethane to protect the finish.
- Don’t be afraid to get creative!
Pros and Cons of Painting Bathroom Cabinets with Chalk Paint
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Requires little to no prep work
- Can be used on a variety of surfaces
- Creates a shabby-chic, vintage look
- Can be cheaper than replacing or refinishing cabinets
Cons:
- May require multiple coats for a smooth finish
- May require a clear wax or polyurethane for protection
- May not be as durable as a professional refinishing job
- May not be the best option for high-traffic areas
My Personal Review and Suggestion
Overall, I was really happy with the results of painting my bathroom cabinets with chalk paint. It was a quick and easy DIY project that made a big difference in the look of my bathroom. However, I did find that the cabinets needed two coats of paint to achieve a smooth finish, and I did have to apply a clear wax to protect the paint. If you’re looking for a cheap and easy way to update your bathroom cabinets, I would definitely recommend giving chalk paint a try!
Question & Answer
Q: Can you paint over existing paint with chalk paint?
A: Yes, you can! You may need to lightly sand the existing paint to create a rough surface for the chalk paint to adhere to.
Q: Can you use chalk paint on laminate cabinets?
A: Yes, you can!
FAQs
Q: Is chalk paint waterproof?
A: No, chalk paint is not waterproof. You will need to apply a clear wax or polyurethane to protect the finish.
Q: Can you distress chalk paint?
A: Yes, you can! You can use sandpaper or a sanding block to distress the paint after it has dried.
Q: How long does chalk paint take to dry?
A: It depends on the brand, but most chalk paint dries within 30-60 minutes.