How to Paint Paper Covered Cabinets

Co-authored by wikiHow Staff

Last Updated: March 22, 2023

Ready to update your cabinets but aren’t sure what to do about the laminate paper covering the surface? Have no fear! You can easily paint over the laminate paper and completely revitalize their look. You just need to use the right supplies and prepare the surface of the cabinets, and it’s no sweat. To make the job even easier, we’ve answered a few of the most common questions folks have about painting paper-covered cabinets.

Question 1 of 5:

Can you paint paper-covered cabinets?

Yes, you can paint over laminate paper-covered cabinets. Laminate paper is an inexpensive way to cover the surface of cabinets, but eventually, you may decide you want to update the look. You can remove the cabinet hardware, such as knobs, handles, and pulls, and sand the laminate to rough up the surface so the paint will adhere to it. You also need to choose the right primer and paint, but you absolutely can paint your laminate paper-covered cabinets.^{[1]
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Question 2 of 5:

What kind of paint do you use on laminate cabinets?

Use oil-based primer and paint for laminate cabinets. Laminate can be a tricky material for paint to bond to, so it’s important that you choose the right paint to avoid bubbles and clumping. An oil-based primer will lay the foundation for an oil-based paint to properly adhere to the surface of your laminate cabinets.^{[2]
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Question 3 of 5:

Can I paint my laminate cabinets without sanding?

No, you really need to sand the surface so the paint sticks to it. If you have raw, unvarnished wood cabinets, then you could probably get away with not sanding them before you apply your paint. However, laminate is a glossy surface that will affect how the paint and primer adhere to your cabinets. Use medium-grit sandpaper such as 180-grit and lightly sand the surface to prepare it.^{[3]
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Question 4 of 5:

Do I need to prime laminate cabinets before painting?

Yes, you need to prime the surface so your paint bonds to it. After lightly sanding the surface of your laminate cabinets, apply an oil-based primer with a paintbrush. Cover the entire surface of the cabinets with an even layer and allow the primer to dry completely.^{[4]
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- Check the packaging of the primer for specific drying times because they can vary.
- It’s really important that the primer is fully dry before you add your paint.

Question 5 of 5:

How many coats of paint do I need to cover laminate cabinets?

You can use 2 coats if necessary. Use a paintbrush to apply your oil-based paint over the primer coat, making sure to cover all areas of the cabinets evenly. Then, wait for the paint to fully dry. If you’re not satisfied with the coverage, apply a second coat and allow it to fully dry as well.^{[5]
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- Adding too many coats can affect how well the paint adheres to the cabinets.