Looking to refresh your kitchen's look without breaking the bank? Painting your kitchen cabinets can be an affordable and transformative project. But how much does it cost to paint kitchen cabinets when you do it yourself?

In this article, we will guide you through the process, costs, materials needed, and some pro tips to make your cabinets look like they are straight out of a home decor magazine.

FrontStory / Looking to paint your kitchen cabinets? Here is how much it will cost you if you do it yourself.

How Much Does It Cost to Paint Kitchen Cabinets?

The first thing you might wonder is, "How much does it cost to paint kitchen cabinets?" In general, if you are taking on the project yourself, budget between $30 and $60 per linear foot of cabinetry. For a kitchen with 20 linear feet of cabinets, this means your costs could range from $600 to $1,200.

But what exactly does this cost cover? Let's break it down.

What Materials and Tools You Will Need?

To get started, you will need the right supplies. Here is a typical shopping list for painting kitchen cabinets:

Paint

Kitchen cabinets typically do well with a semi-gloss or gloss finish that is easy to wipe down. Depending on the quality and brand, a gallon of paint will cost between $30 and $50 and can cover up to 400 square feet.

Primer

A good primer will help the paint adhere better and last longer. Expect to spend about $20-$30 per gallon.

FrontStory / To paint your kitchen cabinets, you would want to invest in primers and other essential tools apart from paints.

Here are other ‘minor’ essentials you will need:

• Sandpaper: Essential for prepping your cabinets, a pack of sandpaper will run you around $10.
• Painter's Tape: To protect your walls and countertops, you will need painter's tape, which generally costs about $7-$10 per roll.
• Brushes and Rollers: Invest in high-quality brushes and rollers for the best finish. These can cost between $10 and $40, depending on what you choose.

However, do not forget items like drop cloths ($10-$20), paint trays ($5), and possibly new hardware ($2-$10 per piece) if you decide to update the knobs and pulls.

Step-by-Step DIY Process

Now that you have your materials, let's walk through the steps to paint your kitchen cabinets:

• Preparation: Remove all hardware and clean your cabinets thoroughly. Sand them lightly to roughen up the surface for better paint adhesion.
• Priming: Apply a coat of primer to all surfaces you intend to paint. Allow it to dry completely.

FrontStory / Before you apply the first coat of paint, make sure to prepare and prime the cabinets.

• Painting: Now, apply the first coat of paint. Be sure to let it dry fully before applying a second coat for a more polished finish.

Once the paint has dried, reattach the hardware and admire your refreshed cabinets!

What Additional Costs You Should Consider?

While the basic materials will make up the bulk of your expenses, there are a few additional costs to consider:

• Time: Your time is valuable! While it is hard to put a price on it, remember that this project might take several weekends to complete.
• Unexpected Supplies: You might find you need additional supplies once you get started, such as more paint or cleaning products.
• Wear and Tear: Tools and brushes wear out, and you might need to replace them if you encounter a particularly tough job.

So, if you are wondering, "How much does it cost to paint kitchen cabinets?" the answer can vary. While the upfront cost of materials can range from $600 to $1,200 for a typical kitchen, the real value comes from the satisfaction and personal touch you add to your space.

With some planning, a bit of elbow grease, and the right materials, you can give your kitchen a whole new look on a budget.