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February 2, 2021
TRANSFORM YOUR KITCHEN WITH FUSION MINERAL PAINT: A DETAILED GUIDE FOR A STUNNING CABINET MAKEOVER
It’s often said that paint has the power to completely transform a space, and nowhere is this more true than in your kitchen.
For a cost-effective yet impactful update, painting your cabinets with Fusion Mineral Paint is a project that delivers remarkable results.
With a little planning, attention to detail, and the right techniques, you can refresh your kitchen without the stress or expense of a full renovation.
A Kitchen Makeover Story
When my mother-in-law decided it was time for a kitchen update, she wanted to maintain the integrity of her space while modernizing its aesthetic.
Her cabinets, crafted from solid oak by a skilled local artisan in the 1980s, were in great shape but needed a color refresh.
After updating other elements like flooring, countertops, and furniture, she turned to Fusion Mineral Paint to complete her transformation.
She selected two beautiful tones:
Little Lamb, a medium gray with warm, wooly undertones, for the perimeter cabinets, and Soap Stone, a rich, dynamic charcoal gray, for the kitchen island.
The result? A sophisticated, cohesive look that made her kitchen feel brand new.
If you’re ready to tackle your own kitchen cabinets, here’s a detailed guide packed with helpful tips and techniques for achieving professional results with Fusion Mineral Paint.
Why Choose Fusion Mineral Paint?
Fusion Mineral Paint is one of the best choices for cabinets because it’s specifically designed for durability, beauty, and ease of use.
Here’s what makes it a standout:
Built-in Top Coat:
Its unique formula includes a built-in top coat, making it long-lasting and ideal for high-traffic areas like kitchens.
Self-Leveling:
Fusion’s smooth application minimizes brush marks, giving you a sleek, professional finish.
Low VOCs:
Safe for indoor use, with minimal odor.
Exceptional Durability:
The paint bonds well to surfaces, ensuring it holds up to daily use and cleaning.
Diverse Color Range:
From soft neutrals to bold tones, Fusion offers a palette to suit any style.
Step 1: Choose Your Colors Thoughtfully
One of the most exciting parts of painting your cabinets is selecting the colors that will define your kitchen’s new look.
While Fusion offers a range of stunning hues, choosing the right shade for your space is all about seeing how it looks in your unique lighting conditions.
Test Before You Commit
Fusion Mineral Paint offers tester sample pots in all colors, allowing you to try out shades before making a final decision. We love using small canvas boards from the dollar store to test colors.
Paint a few boards in your chosen shades, then move them around your kitchen throughout the day.
This lets you see how the colors look in natural and artificial light, helping you make the perfect choice.
Colours used here:
Little Lamb:
This soft, medium gray from Fusion’s Tones for Tots Collection is incredibly versatile.
Its neutral undertones pair well with virtually any color scheme, creating a timeless look.
Soap Stone:
A popular deep gray with subtle blue or purple undertones that shift depending on lighting.
It’s bold enough to make a statement yet subtle enough to complement a variety of other design elements.
Step 2: Prep Your Cabinets Like a Pro
Preparation is the foundation of a successful paint job.
Skipping or rushing this step can lead to poor adhesion and a less durable finish.
Majority of the time, If the Paint isn't working, it mean proper prep wasn't given!
Clean Thoroughly
Start by removing grease, oils, and residue that can build up over time.
Use Fusion’s TSP Alternative, a gentle yet effective cleaner designed for this purpose.
Unlike traditional TSP, it doesn’t require extensive rinsing, saving you time while ensuring the surface is ready for paint.
Sand and Scuff
Sanding your cabinets helps create a surface that the paint can grip.
Use 220 grit sandpaper for light scuffing.
You don’t need to sand down to bare wood—just enough to dull the existing finish and remove any gloss.
Apply Ultra Grip for Challenging Surfaces
If your cabinets are particularly slick (e.g., laminate or heavily varnished surfaces), apply a coat of Ultra Grip.
This product enhances adhesion on difficult surfaces, ensuring the paint stays put for years to come.
Let Ultra Grip dry for 12-24 hours before painting.
Step 3: Paint Your Cabinets
With preparation complete, it’s time to start painting.
Tools You’ll Need
High-quality synthetic brushes for precision
Small micofiber rollers for smooth application on flat surfaces
Drop cloths and painter’s tape to protect surrounding areas
Technique Tips
Start with the backs:
Paint the backs of the cabinet doors first.
This way, if they stick slightly during drying, it won’t affect the visible surface.
Thin, even coats:
Apply the paint in thin, even coats to prevent drips and ensure a smooth finish.
Fusion’s self-leveling properties will help reduce brush strokes.
Work systematically:
Paint in sections—upper cabinets first, then lowers, then the island.
This keeps the workflow organized and prevents missed spots.
Allow 4-6 hours of drying time between coats.
Most cabinets will require minimum of 2 coats for full coverage, depending on the original finish and color contrast.
Step 4: Add Extra Protection with a Top Coat
While Fusion Mineral Paint includes a built-in top coat, kitchen cabinets endure heavy use and frequent cleaning, so an additional layer of protection is a smart choice.
Fusion’s Gel Stain - Patina:
This product serves as a durable top coat, adding a layer of toughness to your cabinets.
It’s easy to apply and ideal for high-traffic areas like kitchens.
When to Apply:
Allow the final coat of paint to cure for at least 24 hours before applying the top coat.
Use a clean, lint-free cloth or brush for application.
Step 5: Reassemble and Admire
Once the paint has fully cured (this can take up to 21 days for maximum hardness), reattach the cabinet doors, hinges, and handles.
Take care during reassembly to avoid scratching or chipping the fresh paint.
Additional Tips for Success
Organize Your Workspace:
Label each cabinet door and its corresponding hardware before removing them.
This will make reassembly easier.
Allow Adequate Time:
Painting cabinets isn’t a quick project—it’s best to plan for a week to complete the job properly.
Rushing can lead to uneven coats or damage.
Practice Patience:
Let each coat of paint and top coat fully dry before moving on to the next step.
Experiment First:
Use tester sample pots to try out colors and practice your painting technique before committing to the whole project.
The Reward: A Kitchen You’ll Love
Transforming your kitchen with Fusion Mineral Paint is more than just a budget-friendly upgrade—it’s a creative process that brings new life to your space.
By investing the time to properly prep, paint, and protect your cabinets, you’ll achieve a stunning, professional finish that lasts for years.
Whether you’re drawn to the soft sophistication of Little Lamb or the bold elegance of Soap Stone, Fusion Mineral Paint offers endless possibilities to customize your kitchen to match your unique style.
So, grab your paintbrush, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to fall in love with your kitchen all over again!
Happy Painting!
xo Christa
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