Materials You’ll Need

Equipment / Tools:

• 1 paintbrush, 2 1/2-inch
• 1 roller frame
• 3 roller covers
• 1 paint tray
• 3 paint tray liners
• 2 canvas drop cloths
• 1 dust mask or respirator
• 1 shop vacuum
• 2 tack cloths
• 2 soft, clean cotton rags

Materials:

• 2 gallons interior acrylic-latex paint, satin or eggshell
• 1 gallon primer
• 4 packs masking film
• 1 roll painter’s tape
• 1 box TSP (tri-sodium phosphate) or alternative

Step 1: Determine the Area to be Painted

Calculate the square footage of your walls to determine the amount of paint you need. For new construction, multiply the wall height (typically 8 feet) by the length of each wall and add the results. Subtract the area of windows and doors for a more precise figure.

Tip: Consider purchasing slightly more paint than calculated to account for touch-ups and wastage.

Step 2: Choose the Kitchen Paint

Select paint colors that complement your kitchen cabinets and flooring. Consider the kitchen’s usage and choose a paint finish that is durable and easy to clean, such as eggshell, satin, or semi-gloss.

Step 3: Clean Most Surfaces to Be Painted

For areas with grease buildup, use a degreaser like TSP (tri-sodium phosphate) mixed with warm water. Remove dust and cobwebs from trim with a vacuum and damp cloth.

Step 4: Let the Kitchen Dry

Allow the surfaces to dry completely before painting. Open windows or use a fan to circulate air.

Step 5: Mask and Cover the Kitchen

Protect floors, cabinets, appliances, and other surfaces with canvas drop cloths, plastic sheeting, or masking film.

Tip: Canvas drop cloths offer better grip and can be reused.

Step 6: Apply Painter’s Tape

Apply painter’s tape to trim and areas that should not be painted. Press firmly to prevent paint bleed-through.

Step 7: Apply Primer

Primer is necessary for unpainted drywall, bare wood, and painted surfaces in poor condition. Use a roller for large areas and a brush for smaller areas.

Tip: Use a roller or sprayer for unfurnished kitchens. For furnished kitchens, use a brush for small areas.

Step 8: Roll the Large Areas

Pour a small amount of paint into the tray and soak the roller cover. Roll out excess paint. Apply the paint to walls in a W-pattern, starting about an inch from the painter’s tape.

Step 9: Brush the Paint

After the paint has dried for a few hours, use a brush to paint areas the roller could not reach. Avoid drips by applying minimal paint and re-brushing only recently painted sections.

Step 10: Apply Additional Coats

For a richer color and durability, apply two or three coats of paint. Allow each coat to dry for at least two hours before re-rolling or re-brushing.

Troubleshooting: When to Call a Professional

Painting a kitchen is generally within the skillset of DIYers. However, consider hiring a professional painter if your kitchen has a large or complex layout, high ceilings, or unusual geometry.