I re-used my old kitchen cabinets in the basement. The were built in place in the 1960’s and finished with what I believe is varnish. I would like to paint them, but I don’t want to completely strip them first. IBesides sanding, any ideas for getting paint to stick to the varnish? Would a coat of shellac help?
Thanks.
Paul
Replies
Kitchen cabinets typically have all sorts of gunk on them. They need to be cleaned well. I would use mineral spirits applied with a green scotchbrite pad. Then wipe off all the liguid and gunk using lots of paper towels. Do it twice.
Use a shellac based primer like Zinsser's B-I-N Primer. Now you can apply your topcoats.
Right you are Howard. Cleaning is the most important thing. Mineral spirits and VM&P Naphtha will remove the grease and oils. Also use a little old fashion soap and water to get the rest of the crud. Shellac primer is not necessary if you get a good clean surface but it will help seal in contaminates that could cause problems with the new paint. Use an oil based paint, not a latex water based paint.
Steve Nearman
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A person should be aware that in Canada and other places, naptha is white gas, and is extremely flammable. Be aware of what you are buying.
Ditto on the mineral spirits, but wash with T.S.P. or lye, then damp rinse, and let dry, bone dry. then light sand with 220. and wipe with tack cloth. Prime coat, spakel holes and boo boo's, light sand again. Now your ready for paint.
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