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Transform a basic cabinet using four simple steps.

This simple cube cabinet had outlived its dark look – but not its usefulness. Still a sturdy piece of furniture, the cabinet was easily transformed using fresh paint and a set of castor wheels. I chose the subtly contrasting Resene Half Duck Egg Blue and Resene Black White.

Update an old cabinet with a fresh coat of paint

You need

2 litres Resene Enamacryl in two colours of your choice (1 litre each)
Medium paintbrush
Resene Smooth Surfaces Microfibre Blend Roller Kit
Dropcloth
4 x castor wheels
Screws and screwdriver

Method

Step 1: Clean all paintable surfaces to remove any dirt or loose material. Lay the cabinet on its back. Progressively pour a little of the paint (Resene Half Duck Egg Blue) into a container, then paint each cube inner. Check for dribbles before leaving to dry.

Step 2: Stand the cabinet upright and recoat as necessary. Allow to dry.

Clean cabinet - Step 1a Step 1a

Paint cabinet - Step 1b
Step 1b

Sand and repaint - Step 2
Step 2

Step 3: Use the second paint colour (Resene Black White) for the outside of the cabinet and front edges of the cube. Use a Resene Smooth Surfaces Microfibre Blend Roller Kit for a quick and easy job and to achieve an extra-smooth cabinet finish. Allow to dry before applying a second light coat.

Step 4: Turn the fully dry cabinet upside down and screw a castor wheel into each corner.

Paint outside of cabinet - Step 3
Step 3

Screw on wheels - Step 4
Step 4

Cabinet painting project finished
Shelf finished detail

Pro tips: Resene Enamacryl is a fantastic product for both professional and do-it-yourself painters. It bonds well to surfaces, is fast-drying and can be used for cabinetry and other projects requiring an extra hard-wearing surface. Unlike traditional solvent-borne enamels, it’s easy to apply and washes up in water.

To tidy up, wash your paint brushes in a bucket. Allow to stand overnight. Pour clear liquid onto a grassed area away from waterways. Allow remaining paint solids to dry and add them to your household rubbish. Recycle empty cans with the Resene PaintWise service at most Resene ColorShops.

Resene Black White

Resene Half Duck Egg Blue

Words and styling Sarah Heeringa. Photography Amanda Reelick. April 2022

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Resene Paints Ltd – www.resene.com