Best Paint Finishes for Cabinets: A Quick Guide by That 1 Painter Northern Minneapolis
That 1 Painter is the fastest-growing painting company in the world. Painting your space can be complicated, but with our expertise, we make the process easy and stress-free for homeowners. With franchises across the nation, we have helped tens of thousands of homeowners make the best choices for their homes without sacrificing quality, and we are here to show you how.
Best Paint Finishes for Cabinets: A Quick Guide by That 1 Painter Northern Minneapolis
Cabinets do more than store your belongings. They are the centerpiece of your kitchen or bathroom. The right paint finish can elevate them into a stunning design feature while protecting them from daily wear. A quality finish also makes cleaning easier and helps cabinets last for years.
We’ve seen it all in homes across North Minneapolis, Minnesota. One frustrated homeowner reached out after a DIY paint job left their cabinets dull and worn. Our team stepped in, applying a satin finish that delivered the sleek, modern look they wanted. The finish was durable enough to withstand their busy household.
Choosing the perfect finish is important for homeowners in Minnesota. With the help of That 1 Painter, you can achieve stylish and functional cabinets.
Why Cabinet Paint Finishes Matter: A Key to Durability and Style
Each paint finish has its own benefits. Glossy finishes are sleek and durable, reflecting light to make small spaces look bigger. Matte finishes, in contrast, have an understated, elegant look perfect for cozy designs. Satin and semi-gloss finishes are practical and stylish. They resist scratches, fingerprints, and stains—ideal for busy households.
Combining Durability and Style
Cabinets go through daily wear from spills, moisture, and frequent use. That’s why homeowners in North Minneapolis, Minnesota trust That 1 Painter to provide durable finishes. Our process includes careful preparation and using premium paints for a flawless, long-lasting result.
Types of Paint Finishes for Cabinets: Gloss, Satin, Matte, and More
Choosing the right finish is just as important as picking a color. Each finish changes how cabinets look and are cared for. At That 1 Painter, we help Minnesota homeowners find the best finish for their style and needs.
Paint Finishes Comparison Table
| Finish | Appearance | Best For | Benefits | Considerations |
| Gloss | High shine, reflective | Modern kitchens, small spaces | Easy to clean, durable | Shows imperfections and fingerprints |
| Satin | Smooth with subtle sheen | Versatile styles, bathrooms, kitchens | Elegant, hides imperfections, durable | Slightly less reflective |
| Matte | Soft, non-reflective, modern | Contemporary or cozy spaces | Hides imperfections, warm aesthetic | Harder to clean, less stain-resistant |
| Semi-Gloss | Moderate shine | High-traffic areas, trim, and doors | Durable, easy to clean | Slightly more reflective than satin |
| Eggshell | Mild sheen, soft, balanced look | Living areas, less busy kitchens | Smooth finish, hides minor imperfections | Less durable than satin or gloss |
When to Use Each Finish
- Gloss: Ideal for modern kitchens or smaller spaces where light reflection can make the room look bigger and brighter. It’s also durable and easy to clean, perfect for areas prone to grease or fingerprints.
- Satin: The most versatile option, satin, is perfect for cabinets in kitchens and bathrooms. Its subtle sheen offers a refined look while hiding minor imperfections.
- Matte: A great choice for creating a contemporary or cozy feel. They hide flaws well but are less stain-resistant, making them better for low-traffic areas.
- Semi-Gloss: The go-to for high-traffic spaces like kitchens and bathrooms. It combines the durability of gloss with the understated charm of satin.
- Eggshell: A softer alternative to satin, eggshell works well for living spaces or cabinets that don’t see heavy use. It offers a smooth look with minimal sheen.
For an in-depth look at cabinet paints, check out our guide on Cabinet Paint + the Best Paint for Trim and Doors.
How to Choose the Right Finish Based on Cabinet Material
Paint finishes must also suit the cabinet material. Wood, MDF, and laminate each have unique requirements for durability and adhesion.
At That 1 Painter, we’ve worked with a variety of materials,
helping Minnesota homeowners get beautiful and long-lasting results.
Tips for Choosing the Right Finish by Cabinet Material
| Cabinet Material | Recommended Finish | Why It Works | Special Considerations |
| Solid Wood | Satin, Semi-Gloss, or Gloss | Enhances natural grain, provides durability | Requires sanding and priming |
| MDF | Satin or Semi-Gloss | Hides imperfections, smooth finish, durable | Must be sealed and primed properly |
| Laminate | Satin or Gloss | Sleek, modern look, resists wear | Needs adhesion-promoting primer |
Material-Specific Techniques
- Solid Wood: Wood is versatile and works with most finishes, but preparation is important. Sanding smooths imperfections and a high-quality primer ensures even paint application. Satin or semi-gloss finishes are ideal for highlighting the wood’s natural beauty.
- MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard): MDF provides a smooth surface but is highly porous. Sealing and priming are critical to prevent the material from absorbing paint unevenly. Satin or semi-gloss finishes work best for a polished and long-lasting appearance.
Laminate: Laminate surfaces are non-porous, making adhesion a challenge. We use a special adhesion primer before applying the paint to ensure lasting results. Gloss or satin finishes are excellent for creating a modern, durable look.
Top Sherwin Williams Paints for Cabinets in 2024
Using high-quality products is key to professional results. At That 1 Painter, we recommend Sherwin Williams Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel for its durability and smooth finish.
Why Sherwin Williams Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel Stands Out
- Durability: Creates a hard, smooth surface that resists wear.
- Color Stability: Avoids yellowing over time.
- Adhesion: Works seamlessly on wood, MDF, and laminate.
- Low VOCs: Minimal odor, ideal for interior projects.
Popular Cabinet Colors for 2024
Paint quality goes hand-in-hand with choosing the right color. Here are some of the top Sherwin-Williams cabinet colors trending this year:
- Soft White or Cream: Timeless shades that brighten your kitchen and create a clean, airy look.
- Warm Greige: A versatile neutral tone that blends warmth and sophistication.
- Moody Navy: Adds depth and luxury, pairing beautifully with brass accents.
- Forest Green: Earthy and calming, perfect for nature-inspired designs.
- Charcoal or Black: Bold and modern, ideal for creating a striking contrast.
Trust That 1 Painter for Expert Cabinet Painting
As the best professional painters in North Minneapolis, Minnesota, we combine high-quality products like Sherwin Williams Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel with meticulous craftsmanship to deliver stunning results. Whether modernizing your kitchen or refreshing your bathroom, we’re here to help you achieve the perfect look.
Why Hire Professional Painters for Your Cabinet Painting Project
Cabinet painting requires expertise, tools, and techniques to achieve flawless results. Here’s why hiring That 1 Painter is the smart choice:
- Superior Results: Our skilled team delivers smooth, streak-free finishes with meticulous attention to detail.
- Time Efficiency: Save time and avoid DIY challenges with our efficient process.
- Stress-Free Service :From preparation to cleanup, we handle everything while keeping your space spotless.
Trust our expertise and contact That 1 Painter at (763) 280-3736 for a free consultation!