Tips: Using Custom Paint for Kitchen Cabinets in Atlanta Homes

Painting kitchen cabinets is one of the easiest ways to update the look of your kitchen without doing a complete remodel. It’s cost-effective and takes less time than replacing cabinets. In many Atlanta homes, especially older ones, custom cabinet painting has become a go-to solution for freshening up a space.

With so many color options and paint finishes available today, you can easily match your kitchen to the rest of your home. But cabinet painting is not just about picking a color and brushing it on. To make your cabinets look good and last longer, you need to follow the proper process.

Here are some practical and professional tips for using custom paint for kitchen cabinets, especially designed for homeowners in the Atlanta area. 

Expert Tips from Peach Paint Co. on Custom Paint for Kitchen Cabinets in Atlanta Homes

1. Choose Cabinet Colors That Fit Your Whole Home

Atlanta homes often blend traditional Southern charm with modern touches. So, it’s important to pick cabinet colors that work well with the rest of your space. In kitchens with a lot of natural light, soft white or warm gray works well. If your kitchen connects to a living or dining room, keeping the cabinet color neutral helps everything flow better.

Popular options in Atlanta homes:

• Off-white and ivory for classic looks

• Greige (gray + beige) for soft contrast

• Muted green or blue for calm, cool tones

When in doubt, test sample colors in natural and artificial light before making your final decision.

2. Take Time to Prep Cabinets the Right Way

One of the most important steps in cabinet painting is preparation. Cabinets may look clean, but they often have grease, dirt, or product buildup that paint won’t stick to.

Here’s what you should do:

• Remove all doors, drawers, and hardware

• Clean all surfaces with a degreasing cleaner

• Sand lightly to dull the old finish

• Use a primer made for cabinets

Skipping prep might save time at first, but it will lead to problems like peeling paint or uneven color later.

3. Choose the Best Finish for a Busy Kitchen

The finish you choose affects how the cabinets look and how they hold up. In kitchens, satin or semi-gloss finishes are best. They are easy to wipe clean and can handle moisture and stains.

Here’s a quick guide:

• Satin finish – smooth, not too shiny, easy to clean

• Semi-gloss finish – more shine, very durable

• Matte finish – soft look, but not as easy to clean

Avoid flat or chalky finishes in kitchens. They may look trendy but don’t work well in high-traffic, messy areas.

4. Invest in High-Quality Paint Products

Not all paint is the same. For kitchen cabinets, regular wall paint won’t work. You need paint that sticks well, dries evenly, and resists daily wear.

When applying custom paint for kitchen cabinets, always use products designed for trim or cabinetry. These types of paint don’t yellow over time and are made to resist moisture and stains.

High-quality paint might cost more upfront, but it saves you from having to repaint sooner. And the finish will look smoother and more professional.

5. Decide Between Spray Painting or Brush and Roll

There are two main ways to apply cabinet paint: spraying and using a brush and roller.

• Spray painting gives a smooth, factory-like finish. It’s best for large projects and is usually done by pros.

• Brushing and rolling work for small projects or DIY jobs. But you’ll need to take your time to avoid streaks or brush marks.

A common approach is to spray the doors and drawers off-site while brushing the cabinet frames at home. This combo gives great results while keeping the mess under control.

6. Try Two-Tone or Accent Painting for a Custom Look

A full kitchen of one color can sometimes feel flat. A growing trend in Atlanta kitchens is using two tones or adding accent colors.

Examples of this include:

• White upper cabinets with gray or blue lowers

• Painting just the island a bold color like navy or forest green

• Adding color to the inside backs of glass-front cabinets

These small choices can make a big difference, especially when you want custom paint for kitchen cabinets without going overboard. You get color, personality, and style without repainting everything.

7. Don’t Forget About Curing Time

After painting, your cabinets need time to cure not just dry fully. Paint may feel dry in a few hours, but it takes days or even weeks to harden completely.

During that time:

• Avoid slamming doors or drawers

• Don’t scrub the surfaces

• Be careful with heavy pots, pans, or sharp objects

Letting your paint cure properly will keep it from chipping or getting scratched too early. It’s one of the last but most important steps in getting a long-lasting finish.

Summary!

Using custom paint for kitchen cabinets is an innovative, affordable way to update your kitchen without a complete renovation. From choosing the right color and prep steps to selecting the best products, every detail counts.

For homeowners in Atlanta who want a clean, long-lasting finish, working with a professional makes the process much easier. Peach Paint Co. has helped many families in Northern Atlanta turn outdated kitchens into fresh, beautiful spaces. If you're ready to start your kitchen update, their team is prepared to guide you every step of the way.