Q–After I use a can of paint, I always seal it carefully before putting it away. The trouble is that when I go to use it again I often find that the paint contains many little particles–like flecks of dirt or sand. This makes it almost impossible to get a really smooth finish on the next job. Do you know what could be causing this and what I can do to get rid of these particles?
A–Some of the particles may actually be tiny flecks of hardened or dried paint that accumulated inside the can when you last used it. Some could also be particles of dust or dirt that were picked up by the brush when the paint was last used. This dirt then got into the paint each time the brush was dipped into that can. Either way, you can get rid of the particles by carefully straining the paint before use, with a gauze paint strainer (sold in many paint stores) or with an old nylon stocking or piece of nylon panty hose. Tie this nylon across the top of the can, then pour the paint in the center to strain it through the mesh. While pouring, stir the paint slowly and gently with a brush to help speed up the straining process.
Q–My kitchen cabinets are over 20 years old and made of a dark, molded plastic material with an imitation wood grain. The cabinets are in fairly nice condition, but I would like to make them lighter in color–more like the off-white walls and tile floor. Can this plastic be painted, and if so what is the right procedure?
A–I assume your cabinets are either hardboard or flake board that has been covered with melamine or some other type of plastic veneer. Most such materials can be painted. Scrub all surfaces thoroughly to get rid of wax, grease and soil. Let dry completely, then apply a first coat of B-I-N, KILZ, Bulls Eye 1-2-3, or similar stain killer and sealer (sold in most paint stores). When this prime coat dries, apply two coats of a semigloss enamel in the color of your choice, sanding lightly between coats.
