DIY Matte Black Kitchen Cabinet Hardware Refresh
Welcome to DIY Matte Black Kitchen Cabinet Hardware Refresh. I just recently did this project and it was one of the easiest, most cost-efficient and rewarding projects so far. What a simple Matte Black Can of spray paint can do is amazing. Let’s dig in!
If you’re anything like me, you probably spend a lot of time in your kitchen. It’s the heart of the home, where we whip up everything from midnight snacks to holiday feasts. So why not give it a bit of a facelift?
One of the easiest ways to refresh your kitchen is by updating your cabinet hardware. And let me tell you, matte black is all the rage now and not going anywhere anytime soon! It’s sleek, it’s stylish, and guess what? You can do it yourself with just a can of spray paint. I’ll show you how.

Choosing the Right Spray Paint
First things first, we need to talk about spray paint. Not all spray paints are created equal, especially when it comes to hardware. You’ll want to choose a metal-friendly formula that’s durable and long-lasting. Matte black finishes are my personal favourite for a modern and sleek look.
My recommendation? Rust-Oleum’s Matte Black Spray Paint. This is the paint I used for this project. It’s specifically designed for metal, dries quickly, and gives a smooth finish. Plus, it’s rust-resistant!
When selecting paint, remember these factors:
- Durability: Your kitchen hardware sees a lot of use, so you’ll want a paint that can withstand the wear and tear.
- Finish: Matte, glossy, satin – each finish will give a different look. Choose one that matches your kitchen’s vibe.
- Drying Time: The quicker it dries, the sooner you can reattach your hardware.

Preparing the Cabinet Hardware
Now that we’ve got our paint, it’s time for prep work. This step is crucial for a smooth, lasting finish. Here’s what you need to do:
- Remove the Hardware: Take off all the knobs, pulls, and hinges from your cabinets. Keep the screws safe – you’ll need them later!
- Clean: Kitchen hardware can get greasy. Clean each piece with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Make sure they’re completely dry before moving to the next step.
- Sand & Prime (Optional): If your hardware is super glossy or has a lot of old paint, give it a light sanding to help the new paint adhere better. A coat of primer wouldn’t hurt either.

Applying the Paint to the Cabinet Hardware
Alright, the prep work is done and it’s game time! Now we’re moving on to the fun part – applying the paint. This is where your cabinet hardware starts to transform.
But remember, even though it’s fun, we still need to be methodical to ensure we get an even, smooth finish. Let’s dive in and start spraying! Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting that flawless finish:
- Set Up Your Space: Spray paint can get messy. Set up a well-ventilated area and protect surfaces with newspapers or a drop cloth.
- Shake that Can: Shake your paint can for about a minute to mix the paint.
- Test Spray: Do a test spray on a piece of cardboard to check the spray pattern and pressure.
- Time to Paint: Hold the can about 10-12 inches from the hardware. Apply the paint in a steady back-and-forth motion, slightly overlapping each stroke. Remember, multiple light coats give a better finish than one heavy coat.
- Let it Dry: Allow the paint to dry between coats. Check your paint can for the recommended drying time.

Drying and Reattaching the Cabinet Hardware
Patience is essential here. Allow your painted hardware to dry fully. This might require a little bit of waiting, but trust me, it’s worth it.
The last thing you want is to smudge your freshly painted knobs and pulls. Consult the back of your spray paint can for the recommended drying time, but don’t rush it – when in doubt, give it a bit more time.
Once they’re good and dry, it’s time to reattach the hardware to your cabinets. Be gentle here – you don’t want to scratch your new paint job.
Using the screws you kept safe from the beginning (told you we’d need them!), carefully reassemble everything.
And voila, you’ve successfully revamped your kitchen cabinet hardware! Step back and admire your work.
This simple DIY project may not seem like much, but it can make a huge difference in the overall ambiance of your kitchen. So, go ahead and give yourself a pat on the back – you’ve earned it!

Before and After Cabinet Showcase
I bet you can’t wait to see the transformation. Here are some before and after shots from my kitchen refresh.
You can see how the matte black instantly updates the look and adds a classy yet modern touch to the entire kitchen. Easy and Simple refresh.

Conclusion
And there you have it – an easy and affordable DIY Matte Black Kitchen Cabinet Hardware Refresh. Not only does this minor change make a major impact, but it also allows you to add a personal touch to your kitchen.
I hope this guide inspires you to roll up your sleeves and try out this project. Remember, the best part about DIY is that you can always paint it back if you don’t like it – although I suspect you’ll love the results as much as I do!
Share your DIY journey in the comments below or tag me on Instagram. Can’t wait to see your refreshed kitchens!
Check out our post on Decluttering your kitchen here!

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