How to repaint melamine kitchen cabinets?

Question

Hi,

I’m planning to repaint my melamine kitchen cabinets (currently white) and have a few questions:

1. My understanding is that I need to use a primer first, followed by enamel paint for the colour. Is this correct?

2. What is the cheapest primer you would recommend that will still give a good, durable result?

3. Once I choose the colour, can the mixed paint and primer be delivered to my home?

4. Can I order custom colour mixing online, or do I need to visit a Bunnings store?

5. How many coats of primer and paint would you recommend for the kitchen cabinets and benchtop?

6. What's the best shin to use?

Thank you for your help.

Regards,

Roberta

JacobZ · Answer

Hi Roberta (@JohnZol),

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community, it is fantastic to have you with us.

The good news is that there are purpose-designed laminate and cabinet painting systems available for exactly this type of project. These are a much better choice than standard wall or trim paint because laminate and melamine are very smooth, non-porous surfaces that can be difficult for conventional coatings to adhere to. Cabinet coatings are also designed to produce a harder, more durable finish that can withstand regular handling, cleaning and the occasional knock.

@projectmumdanni has given you some great advice, and the White Knight Tile & Laminate Paint she used is certainly an option. Another system I'd suggest looking at is the Dulux Renovation Range, which has products specifically designed for painting laminate, melamine and timber cabinetry.

Whichever system you choose, I'd stick with the manufacturer's recommended preparation, primer and topcoat products rather than mixing products from different systems. You might like to have a look at the Dulux Renovation Range information and application guides and White Knight's Laminate Paint information for more detailed instructions on preparing and coating laminate cabinetry.

We also have a handy guide on

https://www.bunnings.com.au/diy-advice/diy-skills/painting/how-to-paint-laminate-kitchen-cabinetry

that gives plenty of helpful information.

We can certainly organise the mixing and delivery of your paint. However, I'd recommend getting in touch with the Paint team at your local store to discuss the specific colour you require. Certain colours need to be mixed using particular paint bases, so it's best to confirm exactly what you're after and ensure the correct products and bases are selected. The team at your local store will then be able to assist you with ordering, payment and arranging delivery.

The number of coats will depend on the system you choose, so I'd follow the manufacturer's instructions rather than applying a generic rule. As an example, the Dulux Renovation Range typically requires a primer followed by at least two topcoats. If you're painting the benchtop, make sure you use the products specifically intended for benchtops and follow the complete system, including any required protective clear coats.

For the sheen, I'd personally lean towards satin. It provides a nice balance between durability and appearance without being as reflective as a high-gloss finish, which can highlight minor imperfections in the surface or application. In saying this, this is a choice based on preference, and you may be looking for something a bit higher in terms of gloss.

You might like to check out these 20 kitchens transformed with paint, for some great examples of these products in use.

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/206065/20-kitchens-transformed-with-paint

Let me know what you think and if you have further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

Jacob

projectmumdanni · Answer

hi Roberta, I’ve previously used the white knight laminate products. The cleaner, primer and satin paint. You can choose from the colors and and order online. Unsure on delivery though. I prefer satin finish to gloss as it’s not as glossy.