Find Out: Can You Paint A Kitchenaid Stand Mixer Guide

Yes, you absolutely can paint a KitchenAid stand mixer! Giving your mixer a new coat of paint is a fun way to refresh its look, cover up scratches, or simply make it match your kitchen style better. It takes time and effort, but a new color can make an old or plain mixer feel brand new.

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Why Give Your Mixer a New Color?

Lots of people think about changing their mixer’s color. Why do they do it?

• It looks old: Your mixer might have scratches, chips, or just look worn out after years of use.
• You want a change: Maybe you are tired of the standard color or want something unique.
• Match your kitchen: You redecorated, and now your mixer color doesn’t fit anymore.
• It’s cheaper than buying new: Painting is much less expensive than getting a brand new mixer, especially if yours works perfectly.
• Make it special: Painting lets you pick any color you want. You can make your mixer truly yours. It’s a great way to refurbish kitchenaid mixer you already own.

Painting your mixer is a big project, but seeing the finished result can be very rewarding.

Is Painting This Project For You?

Before you start, know that painting a KitchenAid mixer is not super quick or easy. It takes time and care. You need to:

• Have a place to work that is clean and well-aired.
• Get the right tools and supplies.
• Be patient through many steps.
• Feel okay about taking apart your mixer.

If you like hands-on projects and want a custom mixer, this could be perfect for you. If you want a fast change, painting might be more work than you expect.

Getting Ready: The Right Stuff You Need

Painting your mixer needs more than just a can of paint. Getting the right things before you start helps a lot. Here is a list of main items:

Tools and Materials Table

Item	Why You Need It	Notes
Screwdrivers	To take the mixer apart.	Need different sizes, maybe flat and Phillips head.
Safety Glasses	Protect your eyes from dust, paint.	Always wear these when sanding or spraying.
Face Mask/Respirator	Breathe safely while sanding and painting.	A paint respirator is best for spray paint.
Gloves	Keep hands clean and safe from chemicals/paint.	Nitrile gloves work well.
Drop Cloths/Plastic Sheeting	Protect your work area from dust and paint.	Cover everything you don’t want messy.
Degreaser/Cleaner	To clean the mixer surface very well.	Simple Green or a similar strong kitchen cleaner.
Rags/Microfiber Cloths	For cleaning and drying.	Have plenty on hand.
Sandpaper	To smooth the surface and help paint stick.	Need different grit levels (e.g., 220, 320, 400 grit).
Sanding Blocks/Pads	Make sanding easier and more even.	Helps get into curves.
Painter’s Tape	To cover parts you don’t want painted.	Get good quality tape that seals well.
Primer	Makes paint stick and covers the old color.	Use a primer for metal surfaces.
Paint	The new color for your mixer.	Use appliance paint or high-quality spray paint.
Clear Coat (Optional but good)	Protects the paint and adds shine.	Choose one for metal or appliances.
Small Brush/Detail Sprayer	For small areas or touch-ups (optional).	Not always needed, but can be useful.
Work Stand/Platform	To hold the mixer parts while you work.	Makes it easier to reach all sides.
Container for Screws	Keep track of all the small parts.	A small box or magnetic tray works well.

Taking Apart Your Mixer: Kitchenaid Mixer Disassembly

To paint your mixer right, you should take it apart. Painting over screws or connections gives a messy look. Taking it apart lets you paint each piece well and protect parts that should not get paint on them.

Taking apart a KitchenAid mixer is a bit tricky. The exact steps can be different based on your mixer model. Older models might be simpler than newer ones.

Here are the general steps:

1. Unplug the mixer: This is the first and most important step for safety. Make sure it is not plugged in at all.
2. Remove outer covers: Look for screws, usually under trim bands, on the head, or under the base. Remove them carefully. Keep screws in a labeled container so you know where they go back.
3. Separate the head: You might need to remove pins or screws that hold the head to the stand. Be careful, the head is heavy.
4. Take off motor cover: There is usually a cover over the motor inside the head. Take this off gently.
5. Remove other parts: Take off things like the speed control knob, the hub cover where attachments go, and any trim pieces. Note how they come off.
6. Separate housing pieces: The metal body might be made of a few pieces screwed together. Carefully separate these.

Important Note: Look for guides or videos online that show how to take apart your specific KitchenAid model. Search for “[Your Mixer Model Number] disassembly”. This can save you lots of time and help you avoid breaking parts. Take pictures as you go. This will help you remember how to put it back together later. Don’t force parts. If something isn’t moving, check for a hidden screw or clip.

Taking the mixer apart lets you clean, sand, and paint each metal piece well. It also lets you mask off inner parts or wires that must not get paint on them.

Getting the Surface Ready: The Most Important Step

Painting over dirt, grease, or a shiny surface is a recipe for bad results. The paint will not stick well and will chip off easily. Proper surface prep is the key to a lasting paint job. This involves cleaning and sanding kitchenaid mixer parts.

Step 1: Deep Cleaning

Even if your mixer looks clean, it likely has unseen grease and oil from the kitchen.

1. Wash all the metal parts you will paint.
2. Use a strong degreaser or kitchen cleaner. Mix it as the bottle says.
3. Scrub every part well with a brush or cloth. Pay attention to edges and corners where gunk hides.
4. Rinse all parts with clean water. Make sure all cleaner is gone.
5. Dry the parts completely. Use a clean cloth and let them air dry fully. Any water left can cause rust under the paint later.

Make sure the parts are perfectly clean. Any dirt or grease will stop the paint from sticking.

Step 2: Sanding the Surface (Sanding Kitchenaid Mixer)

Sanding does two main things:
* It removes the old shiny finish, giving the new paint something to hold onto.
* It smooths out small scratches or bumps.

This is a dusty job, so do it in your protected work area. Wear your safety glasses and mask.

1. Start with a medium grit sandpaper: Use something like 220-grit sandpaper. This is good for taking off the gloss and smoothing minor flaws. Sand every surface you plan to paint. You don’t need to remove all the old paint, just scuff up the shiny surface.
2. Use finer grit sandpaper next: Move to 320-grit, then maybe 400-grit. This smooths out the scratches left by the coarser paper. The smoother the surface is after sanding, the smoother your final paint finish will look.
3. Get into tight spots: Use smaller pieces of sandpaper or sanding pads to reach curves and corners.
4. Check your work: Run your hand over the surface. It should feel smooth and dull, not shiny. If you see any shiny spots, sand them more.
5. Fill dents or deep scratches (Optional but recommended): If there are any dents or deep gouges, you can fill them with a bit of automotive body filler (like Bondo) or a metal-rated epoxy putty. Follow the product directions to apply and let it dry. Once dry, sand the filled area smooth and even with the surrounding metal.
6. Clean off dust: After sanding, there will be lots of dust. Use a clean, dry brush or compressed air to remove as much dust as possible. Then, wipe everything down with a tack cloth (a special sticky cloth for picking up dust) or a microfiber cloth slightly damp with rubbing alcohol. Make sure all dust is gone before priming. Dust under paint looks bad.

Step 3: Masking

Now that the parts are clean and sanded, cover any areas you don’t want paint on. This includes:

• Inside surfaces that hold the motor or gears.
• Any labels or badges you want to keep.
• Screw holes (you can put screws back in a little bit, or cover the holes with rolled-up tape).
• Edges of the mixer head or base that connect to other parts.

Use good quality painter’s tape. Press the edges down firmly so paint doesn’t sneak under.

Laying Down the Base: Primer for Metal

Priming is a step you should not skip when painting metal appliances. Primer does several things:

• It helps the paint stick much better to the metal surface. It grabs onto the tiny scratches from sanding.
• It gives a smooth, even color base for your paint. This is extra important if you are painting a light color over a dark one.
• Some primers offer protection against rust. This is good for metal appliances that might be near steam or water.

Choose a primer made for metal surfaces. An automotive primer or a strong appliance primer works well. Many primers come in spray cans, which makes applying them easy.

1. Shake the primer can well: Mix the primer completely as the can tells you.
2. Apply thin coats: Spray the primer in light, even coats. Don’t try to cover everything in one thick layer. Thick layers can run or take forever to dry.
3. Hold the can at the right distance: Usually about 8-12 inches from the surface.
4. Use sweeping motions: Move the can back and forth smoothly across the part. Start spraying off the part, move across, and stop spraying after you pass the other side.
5. Let each coat dry: Wait as long as the primer can says between coats. This is usually 10-15 minutes for spray primers.
6. Apply enough coats: Two thin coats are usually enough for good coverage and sticking power. You want a nice, even base color over all the sanded areas.
7. Let the primer cure: Once the last coat is on, let the primer dry completely. This is called curing. The can will give a time for this, often several hours or even overnight. The primer needs to be hard before you paint over it.
8. Lightly sand the primer (Optional but recommended for best finish): Once the primer is fully dry and hard, you can very, very lightly sand it with super fine sandpaper (like 600 grit or higher). This smooths out any tiny bumps in the primer coat. Clean off all dust again with a tack cloth.

Having a solid primer coat is crucial for how well your final paint job lasts and looks.

Putting on the New Color: How to Paint Kitchenaid Mixer

Now comes the exciting part: adding the color! When painting metal appliances like a stand mixer, you want a tough paint.

Choosing the Best Paint for Stand Mixer

• Appliance Paint: This paint is made for things like fridges and stoves. It is very durable and made to stick to metal. It often comes in spray cans and dries to a hard finish. This is a good choice.
• Automotive Paint: Car paint is also very tough and comes in many colors. It’s designed to handle bumps and temperature changes. It can be more expensive and might require a clear coat specifically made for it.
• Epoxy Spray Paint: Some spray paints are epoxy-based. These are very durable and chip-resistant once fully cured. Read labels carefully to see if they are good for metal appliances.

Spray paint kitchenaid mixer parts is usually the easiest way to get a smooth, factory-like finish at home. Using a brush often leaves brush marks.

Applying the Spray Paint

Make sure you are in a well-aired place, away from flames, and wearing your mask and safety glasses. The temperature and humidity can affect how spray paint dries, so check the can for the best conditions.

1. Shake the paint can well: Shake for at least a minute after you hear the mixing ball. Shake often while you paint.
2. Do a test spray: Spray on a piece of cardboard first. This lets you check the color and how the spray comes out.
3. Apply thin coats: Just like with the primer, apply many thin coats instead of one thick one. This prevents drips and runs and gives a smoother finish.
4. Keep the can moving: Spray in smooth, sweeping motions, overlapping each pass slightly. Keep the can the distance the instructions suggest (usually 8-12 inches).
5. Let coats dry tacky: Wait for the paint to dry until it is just slightly sticky (tacky) before applying the next coat. This lets the new layer stick to the one below without lifting it. Check the can for the wait time, often 15-30 minutes.
6. Apply enough coats for full color: Keep applying thin coats until the color looks solid and even. This might take 3-5 coats or more, depending on the color and paint type.
7. Let the paint dry completely: Once the last color coat is on, let it dry fully. The can will give a “dry to touch” time and a “dry to handle” or “dry to recoat” time. Wait for the longer time before moving on to the clear coat.
8. Lightly sand between color coats (Optional for smoothness): For a super smooth finish, some painters lightly sand the dried paint between coats with very fine sandpaper (like 800-1000 grit). This removes any tiny dust bumps. If you do this, clean off all dust perfectly before the next coat.

Painting is about patience. Rushing the drying time between coats is the easiest way to mess up the finish with runs or drips.

Adding Protection: Clear Coat Kitchenaid Mixer

Putting a clear coat over your paint adds a layer of protection. It helps prevent scratches and chips. It can also give your mixer a nice finish, like glossy or matte.

Choose a clear coat that is compatible with your paint. An automotive clear coat or an appliance clear coat is a good choice. Like the paint, it often comes in a spray can.

1. Make sure the color paint is fully dry: The paint must be cured enough as directed on the can before applying clear coat.
2. Shake the clear coat can: Shake it well before starting.
3. Apply thin coats: Just like with paint and primer, thin coats work best. Thick clear coat can look cloudy or run.
4. Use smooth strokes: Apply the clear coat with even, sweeping motions.
5. Let coats dry tacky: Wait the recommended time between coats.
6. Apply enough coats: Two to three thin coats of clear coat usually give good protection and a nice look.
7. Let the clear coat cure fully: This is the longest drying time. Clear coat needs to get very hard to protect well. This can take 24 hours, 48 hours, or even longer, depending on the product and conditions. Read the can carefully! Do not handle the parts roughly until the clear coat is fully cured.

Once the clear coat is dry and hard, you can optionally polish it with fine rubbing compound and then polish for an extra deep shine, but this isn’t necessary.

Putting It All Back Together

After all the paint layers are dry and fully cured, it is time to put your mixer back together. This is where those pictures you took during disassembly really help.

1. Gather all your parts and screws: Make sure you have everything ready.
2. Reverse the disassembly steps: Follow the steps you used to take it apart, but do them in reverse order.
3. Be gentle: Don’t scratch your new paint job while putting it back together. Use soft cloths to rest parts on.
4. Tighten screws carefully: Tighten screws just enough to be snug. Do not overtighten, especially on plastic parts, as they can crack the new paint or the part itself.
5. Reattach covers and knobs: Put all the outer pieces back in their place.
6. Test everything: Once it is back together, test the mixer. Plug it in (carefully!) and try the different speeds. Make sure the head locks properly and the attachment hub works.

Putting it back together can be a bit challenging, but take your time and look at your pictures if you get stuck.

Caring for Your Newly Painted Mixer

Now that your mixer has a beautiful new coat, you want to keep it looking good.

• Clean gently: Use a soft, damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers, which can scratch the paint or clear coat.
• Avoid bumps: Be careful not to hit the mixer with bowls or other hard objects. Chips happen most often on edges and corners.
• Don’t let liquids sit: Wipe up spills right away, especially things like oil or acidic foods, which could potentially damage the paint over time.

With good care, your new paint job should last for many years.

Tips for Getting a Great Finish

Here are some extra tips to help you get the best possible result when painting metal appliances like your mixer:

• Work in a clean space: Dust is the enemy of a smooth paint finish. Paint in an area where dust is not flying around.
• Good ventilation is key: Spray paint fumes are strong and bad for you. Work near an open door or window, or use fans to move air. An outdoor covered space on a calm day is ideal.
• Check the weather: High humidity or very cold/hot temperatures can mess up spray paint drying. Check the paint can for the best temperature range.
• Read the instructions: Every primer, paint, and clear coat product is a little different. Read the directions on the cans for specific drying times and application tips.
• Be patient: This project takes time, mostly waiting for things to dry between steps. Don’t rush it. Rushing leads to mistakes.
• Warm the spray cans slightly: Spray paint sprays better and smoother when it is not cold. You can warm cans gently in a sink of warm (not hot) water for a few minutes before use. Do NOT use hot water and never heat cans with a flame.
• Practice first: If you are new to spray painting, practice on some scrap metal or cardboard before painting your mixer parts. Get a feel for the spray pattern and how fast you need to move the can.

Following these steps carefully will help you successfully refurbish kitchenaid mixer and give it a fresh new look.

Common Problems and How to Fix Them

Sometimes things don’t go perfectly. Here are some common issues when painting and what to do about them.

Runs and Drips

What it is: Thick lines of paint running down the surface.
Why it happens: Applying the paint too thickly in one coat, holding the can too close, or moving the can too slowly.
How to fix it:
* If wet: Wipe off the run carefully with a cloth with a little paint thinner (check what kind is right for your paint) or paper towel, then lightly respray the area or the whole piece if needed.
* If dry: Let the paint dry completely. Sand the run smooth with fine grit sandpaper (like 400 or 600 grit), clean off dust, and apply another thin coat of paint.

Orange Peel Texture

What it is: The paint surface looks bumpy, like the skin of an orange.
Why it happens: Spraying too far away, not applying enough paint for it to flow out smoothly, or temperature issues.
How to fix it: Let the paint dry completely. Lightly sand the textured area smooth with fine grit sandpaper (600 grit or higher), clean off dust, and apply another thin coat of paint, making sure to spray at the correct distance and get slight overlap between passes.

Paint Chipping Easily

What it is: Small pieces of paint coming off after drying.
Why it happens: Poor surface preparation (not sanding or cleaning well), using the wrong type of paint or primer for metal, or not letting the paint cure long enough before handling.
How to fix it: This is the hardest problem to fix without starting over. For small chips, you might be able to touch up the spot with a tiny brush. For large areas, you might need to sand the whole piece back down to the metal or primer and start the painting process over again, focusing extra hard on cleaning and sanding. Make sure you are using a proper primer for metal and a durable appliance paint or similar.

Paint Doesn’t Stick

What it is: The paint rubs off easily, sometimes even when dry.
Why it happens: Surface was not cleaned or sanded well enough. The old shiny surface or grease stopped the paint from bonding. Using paint not meant for metal.
How to fix it: You usually have to remove all the new paint. Use paint stripper or sand it all off. Then, clean and sand the metal surface very thoroughly. Make sure to use the right primer and paint for metal.

Taking your time on the prep steps – cleaning and sanding kitchenaid mixer parts – is truly the best way to avoid these problems.

Frequently Asked Questions About Painting a Mixer

Here are some common questions people ask about this project.

h4> Can I use regular spray paint from a craft store?

You can, but it’s not the best choice for durability. Craft spray paint is usually not designed for hard use or metal surfaces. It might chip or scratch easily. Appliance paint or automotive paint is much better for a stand mixer because they are made to be tougher and stick well to metal.

h4> How long does the whole painting process take?

It takes several days, mostly because of drying and curing times. Disassembly and prep might take a few hours. Applying primer, paint, and clear coat involves multiple thin layers, with drying time between each layer. The final cure for the clear coat can take 24-72 hours. So, plan for at least 2-3 full days, maybe even a week, from start to finish.

h4> How durable is the paint job?

If you use the right materials (primer for metal, appliance paint, durable clear coat) and do the surface preparation (sanding kitchenaid mixer parts well) correctly, the paint job can be quite durable. It won’t be exactly like the factory finish, which is often powder coating (a very tough baked-on finish), but it should hold up well to normal kitchen use. It might get small chips over many years, especially if bumped hard.

h4> Is the paint food safe once dry?

Most spray paints for appliances or cars are safe once they are fully dried and cured, meaning all the solvents have gone away. However, the paint should only be on the outside of the mixer body. No painted surface should ever touch food. When painting, make sure you protect the inside parts of the mixer housing and anywhere food could go. The paint is safe on the outside surface you touch, but it is not meant to be in contact with food itself. Always check the product labels for specific safety information.

h4> Can I paint plastic parts on the mixer?

Some KitchenAid mixers have plastic trim pieces or base parts. You can often paint these, but you need to use a primer made for plastic, followed by your chosen paint. Some paints might not stick well to plastic, or the solvents in the paint could damage certain types of plastic. It’s best to test on a hidden area or check the paint product details for use on plastic. Sanding plastic needs to be gentle so you don’t melt it or scratch it too deeply.

h4> What if I don’t want to take the mixer completely apart?

You can try to paint it without full disassembly, but it’s hard to get a good, lasting finish. You would need to mask off the motor vent, cord, speed knob area, attachment hub, and anywhere the head attaches very carefully. You won’t be able to sand and clean the edges or inside parts as well, which means the paint might not stick as well in those spots. Taking it apart gives a much cleaner, more professional, and more durable result.

Final Thoughts

Painting your KitchenAid stand mixer is a project that requires care and time, but it is definitely possible. By taking the mixer apart, cleaning and sanding kitchenaid mixer parts well, using the right primer for metal and a quality appliance paint or spray paint kitchenaid mixer parts with, and adding a protective clear coat kitchenaid mixer surface, you can give your mixer a beautiful new life. It’s a great way to refurbish kitchenaid mixer you own and create a custom piece for your kitchen. The key is patience and following the steps carefully. Good luck!