Custom Paint – What’s the Process?
When ordering a custom paint on the cabinets, what is your process?
Here’s a quick overview of how we handle custom paint at KCD:
- Surface Prep:
- We sand the factory topcoat to help the new paint adhere.
- Priming:
- One coat of primer is applied, then lightly scuffed once dry for better paint grip.
- White primer is used for lighter colors and gray primer is used for darker colors.
- Painting:
- Typically, we apply 1–2 coats of paint, depending on the finish quality achieved.
- Dry Time:
- Panels are allowed to fully dry. Timing can vary based on humidity and temperature.
- Panels are allowed to fully dry. Timing can vary based on humidity and temperature.
💡 Paint Mixing Details:
- We use a post-catalyst conversion varnish paint that requires a catalyst to be added to the paint for activation before application.
- The ratio of paint to catalyst depends on environmental factors such as temperature and humidity, and it is best to contact the paint/catalyst manufacturer for recommendations.
- Occasionally, a reducer is added to thin the paint for spraying.
- We use M.L. Campbell products, though most brands behave similarly.
📦 Leftover Paint:
Yes, we can send leftover paint upon request! It will ship without catalyst, so you will need to purchase catalyst from an outside supplier and mix it before applying the paint.