How to repaint built-in cabinet?

Question

I'm wondering what the best primer & paint would be to repaint this built-in cabinet? It's very difficult to remove the sheen from the previous paint, I've tried 60,80,120 grit and cleaned with degreaser.

I tried the Zinsser Bullseye primer but it did not adhere at all, i've end up having to strip the paint off and it returns to the light-blue colour.

Would the Zinsser BIN primer be better?

I have included a picture of the cabinet in its original condition, some great 80s vibes!

EricL · Answer

Hello @mums.can.do.it

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your built-in cabinet.

I propose doing one more rough round of 60grit sandpaper on the surface of the cabinet. I then suggest wiping the surface with

https://www.bunnings.com.au/selleys-sugar-soap-wall-cleaning-wipes-25-pack_p1210330

to remove all the sanding dust and any oil and grease deposits that may have settled on the surface. I suggest using

https://www.bunnings.com.au/dulux-1l-precision-white-maximum-strength-adhesion-primer_p1400848

. This is a primer that has been designed to go onto difficult to paint surfaces including glass. My best advice is to give the primer enough time to cure properly before you apply the topcoat.

For the topcoat, I propose looking at using

https://www.bunnings.com.au/dulux-4l-aquanamel-semi-gloss-white-enamel-paint-4l_p1400051

tinted to your preferred colour. It provides a tough finish and works on doors, architraves, skirting boards, internal and external windows, timber trim and walls and is ideal for bathrooms, kitchens and laundries.

If you happen to know that your cabinetry is covered in melamine or a laminate material, I suggest using

https://www.bunnings.com.au/dulux-1l-renovation-range-primer_p0116494

and

https://www.bunnings.com.au/dulux-1l-ticking-satin-renovation-range-cabinet-doors_p0116486

again, tinted to your preferred colour.

Here is a handy guide:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S9_dMKJTFxQ

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric