How To Touch Up Painted Cabinets

Touching up painted cabinets is a great way to refresh their look and extend their lifespan. Here’s a general guide to get you started:

Gather your supplies:

• Touch-up paint: Ideally, you’ll have leftover paint from the original cabinet painting project. If not, you can try to find a matching color or use a multi-surface touch-up paint. Here are some examples of available products:
• Spates Original Multi-Surface Cabinet – Trim – Door Paint Touch Up
  Colors: Swiss Coffee or White Color

  

  

  Order Small Job 1oz Touch Up Paint – $11.99

  

Spates Original Cabinet Touch Up-Paint Color Kit.
Larger Jobs – Cleaner, sandpaper, brush and touch up paint

 

• Paint brush: A small, fine-tipped brush is ideal for precise application.
• Sandpaper (optional): If you’re dealing with chipped or scratched paint, you’ll need sandpaper to smooth out the area before touching up.
• Putty (optional): For larger chips or gouges, you can use a small amount of putty to fill in the gap before painting.
• Rag or tack cloth: This will help you clean the cabinet surface before painting.

Prepare the surface:

1. Clean the area: Wipe down the area around the damage with a damp rag or tack cloth to remove any dirt, dust, or grease.
2. Fix chips and gouges (optional): If you have any chipped or gouged paint, use a small amount of putty to fill in the gaps. Let the putty dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions, then sand it smooth with fine-grit sandpaper.

Apply the touch-up paint:

1. Shake or stir the paint: Ensure the touch-up paint is mixed well.
2. Dab the paint: Use a gentle dabbing motion with your brush to apply the paint to the damaged area. Don’t brush back and forth, as this can make the touch-up more noticeable.
3. Apply multiple thin coats: It’s better to apply several thin coats of paint than one thick coat. This will help the paint adhere better and prevent drips.
4. Allow drying time: Let each coat of paint dry completely before applying the next.

Tips:

• Apply painter’s tape around the damaged area if you’re concerned about getting paint on the surrounding cabinet surface.
• If you’re unsure about the exact paint color, test the touch-up paint in an inconspicuous area first, such as the inside of a cabinet door.
• For best results, use a light touch and take your time. It’s always easier to add more paint than to remove excess paint.