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Learn How To Paint Kitchenaid Mixer: Step-by-Step Guide
Yes, you absolutely can paint your Kitchenaid mixer! Many people choose to paint their Kitchenaid mixers to give them a fresh look, match their kitchen decor, or fix scratches and wear. Painting is a great way to refinish Kitchenaid mixer and make it feel new again. This guide will show you how to customize Kitchenaid mixer easily and get a result you love.
Why Give Your Mixer a New Look?
Kitchenaid mixers are built tough. They last a long time. But over the years, the color can fade. It might get scratches. Maybe you just want a different color. Painting lets you bring back its shine. It’s a great way to restore Kitchenaid mixer. You can choose any color you like. This means you can have a truly unique mixer. Think of it as a Kitchenaid mixer color change. It’s cheaper than buying a new one. And it’s fun to make it your own. It’s more than just painting; it’s a refinish Kitchenaid mixer project that adds value.
Getting Ready to Paint
Good results start with good prep work. Don’t skip these steps. They make sure the paint sticks well. They help it last a long time.
What You Need
You need a few things before you start. Get these ready first.
- Safety glasses
- Breathing mask (like an N95)
- Gloves
- Screwdrivers (Phillips head is common)
- Masking tape (painter’s tape is best)
- Drop cloths or plastic sheeting
- Cleaner (like simple green or rubbing alcohol)
- Sandpaper (medium grit, like 220; fine grit, like 320 or 400)
- Primer (designed for metal)
- Paint ( best paint for kitchen appliances or durable appliance paint)
- Optional: Clear top coat (polyurethane or epoxy spray)
- Optional: Wire brush or steel wool
- Optional: Heat gun or hairdryer (to speed drying)
Here is a simple list of tools and supplies:
| Item | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Safety Gear | Protect eyes, lungs, skin | Very important! |
| Screwdrivers | To take mixer apart | Match screw types |
| Masking Tape | Cover parts you don’t want painted | Painter’s tape is good |
| Drop Cloths | Protect surfaces from paint | Use old sheets or plastic |
| Cleaner | Remove grease and dirt | Simple Green or Alcohol |
| Sandpaper (220, 320/400) | Rough up surface, make it smooth | Start medium, end fine |
| Primer (Metal) | Helps paint stick | Get a good one |
| Appliance Paint | The color coat | Must be durable |
| Clear Coat (Optional) | Extra protection and shine | Makes paint last longer |
Safety First
Painting creates fumes. Sanding creates dust. You need to protect yourself.
* Work in a place with fresh air. Open windows and doors. Use fans.
* Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from dust or paint spray.
* Wear a breathing mask. This stops you from breathing dust or paint fumes.
* Wear gloves. This keeps paint off your skin.
* Read the safety info on your paint cans. Follow their rules.
Taking Your Mixer Apart
This is a key step: disassemble Kitchenaid mixer. You need to take off the parts you don’t want paint on. This makes painting easier. It also gives a cleaner look. You don’t want paint drips around the edges.
* Unplug the mixer! Make sure it is not connected to power.
* Remove the mixing bowl and any attachments.
* Look for screws. Most Kitchenaid mixers have screws holding the shell together. They are often on the back or under decorative bands.
* Find the hinge pin. This lets the head tilt up and down. You might need to tap it out. Look for pins on the side of the neck. Be gentle.
* Carefully separate the plastic shell from the metal body. Some parts might be clipped together. Don’t force anything too hard. Look for hidden screws.
* Take off the planetary ring (where attachments connect). It usually twists off or is held by screws.
* Remove the speed control knob. It might pull off or have a set screw.
* Take off any metal bands or trim pieces.
* Keep all screws and small parts in a container. A plastic bag or cup works well. Label it if needed. This makes putting it back together easier.
Taking apart the mixer helps you reach all areas for painting. It also protects the parts that should not be painted. Like the motor inside.
Cleaning the Shell
The mixer shell must be very clean. Paint won’t stick to dirt or grease.
* Use a good degreaser cleaner. Simple Green works well. Dish soap can also work.
* Wipe down the whole shell. Get into all the little spots. Use a brush for tough grime.
* Pay close attention to areas near the motor or grease spots.
* Rinse the shell well with clean water. Make sure all cleaner is gone.
* Let the shell dry completely. You can use a towel. Or let it air dry overnight.
* You can also use rubbing alcohol after cleaning. Wipe it down with alcohol. This helps remove any last bits of grease. It also helps the paint stick better. Alcohol dries fast.
Making the Surface Ready (Sanding)
Now you need to sanding Kitchenaid mixer. This helps the paint stick better. It gives the new paint something to grab onto.
* Start with medium grit sandpaper (like 220).
* Gently rub the entire surface of the shell. You don’t need to remove all the old paint. You just need to rough it up.
* Focus on smooth, glossy areas. Sand until the surface looks dull.
* Sand away any scratches or bumps if you want a very smooth finish.
* Get into corners and edges. You can fold the sandpaper or use a small tool.
* After using the medium grit, switch to fine grit sandpaper (like 320 or 400).
* Sand the surface again with the fine grit. This smooths out the tiny scratches made by the medium grit. It makes the surface very smooth for painting.
* Wipe away all the dust. Use a dry cloth first. Then use a slightly damp cloth. Let it dry completely. A tack cloth is also good for picking up fine dust.
This sanding Kitchenaid mixer step is important for a long-lasting paint job. It’s part of refinish Kitchenaid mixer.
Picking the Right Paint
Choosing the right paint is very important. You need paint that can handle kitchen use. It needs to be tough.
What Kind of Paint is Best?
You need best paint for kitchen appliances. This paint is made to be durable. It can handle heat and cleaning.
* Look for paint labeled “Appliance Epoxy” or “Appliance Enamel.”
* These paints are very hard when dry. They resist chips and scratches.
* They also clean up well. This is key for a kitchen item.
* A durable appliance paint will make your painting stand mixer project a success. It will look good for years.
Spray Paint vs. Brush
For a smooth factory look, spray paint Kitchenaid mixer is usually best.
* Spray paint gives a very even coat. You avoid brush marks.
* It’s faster for covering large areas.
* It can be trickier to use without drips, but with thin coats, you can do it.
* Appliance epoxy paints are often sold in spray cans.
Brushing can work for small touch-ups. But for the whole mixer body, spray paint Kitchenaid mixer gives a much nicer finish.
Color Choices
You can choose almost any color. Appliance paints come in classic colors. But you can find more fun colors too. This is where the Kitchenaid mixer color change really happens. Pick a color that fits your kitchen. Or pick a bright color to make the mixer a focal point.
The Painting Steps
Now for the fun part: applying the color.
Applying Primer
Primer is like a sticky layer for the paint. It helps the paint stick firmly to the metal and sanded surface.
* Use a metal primer. Read the can to be sure.
* Work in a well-aired area. Wear your mask and gloves.
* Shake the primer can well for at least a minute.
* Hold the can about 8-10 inches from the mixer shell.
* Spray in light, even strokes. Go back and forth across the surface.
* Overlap your strokes a little bit.
* Don’t try to cover everything in one thick coat. Thin coats are better. They dry faster. They don’t drip.
* Cover the whole outside of the shell. Make sure you get edges and inside rims that might show.
* Let the primer dry. Check the can for how long. It usually takes about 15-30 minutes between coats.
* Apply a second thin coat of primer. Two thin coats are better than one thick one.
* Let the primer dry completely. This might take several hours. Check the can’s instructions for “recoat window” or “dry to touch” time. If you wait too long between primer and paint, you might need to lightly sand the primer.
Spraying the Color
Now for the color! Make sure the primer is fully dry.
* Shake your color spray paint can very well. Shake for at least a minute after you hear the ball rattle.
* Hold the can the same distance as the primer (8-10 inches).
* Use light, even strokes. Go back and forth. Overlap strokes slightly.
* Keep the can moving. Don’t stop spraying while pointed at the mixer. This causes drips.
* Apply a thin coat. Just aim for light coverage. Don’t worry about seeing through it.
* Let the paint dry for the time listed on the can (usually 15-30 minutes). It should be “tacky” but not wet.
* Apply the next thin coat.
* Repeat this process. Apply several thin coats. Three or four thin coats are much better than one or two thick ones.
* Thin coats build up the color nicely. They are less likely to drip. They dry harder.
* Make sure you paint all the parts of the shell that need color. Get into crevices carefully.
* Let the final color coat dry thoroughly. The can will list a “dry to handle” time. It will also list a “full cure” time. Full cure means the paint is as hard as it will get. This can take several days or even a week. Wait as long as you can before the next step or reassembly.
This step is the main part of spray paint Kitchenaid mixer. It’s how you achieve the new Kitchenaid mixer color change. It’s important for painting stand mixer correctly.
Adding a Clear Top Coat (Optional)
A clear top coat adds extra protection. It makes the paint job more durable. It helps prevent scratches and chips.
* Use a clear coat designed for appliances or metal. Epoxy or polyurethane clear coats are good choices.
* Make sure the color paint is completely dry or within the recommended “recoat window” from the paint can. If you wait too long (past the recoat window but before full cure), you might need to lightly sand the color coat with very fine paper (600 grit or higher) before the clear coat. Check the paint instructions.
* Shake the clear coat can well.
* Apply in thin, even coats just like the color paint.
* Hold the can 8-10 inches away. Keep it moving.
* Apply 2-3 thin coats.
* Let each coat dry for the time listed on the can.
* Let the final clear coat dry completely. Again, check the can for full cure time. This is usually several days. Wait for the full cure before putting the mixer back together and using it. This makes the finish as hard and durable as possible. This clear coat step helps make it a durable appliance paint job.
Putting It Back Together
Once the paint is fully cured, it’s time to reassemble.
* Get your container of screws and parts.
* Carefully place the internal components back inside the painted shell.
* Line up the screw holes.
* Put the screws back in. Don’t overtighten them. Just snug is fine. Overtightening can crack the plastic shell.
* Reattach the speed control knob.
* Reinsert the hinge pin if you removed it. You might need to tap it gently with a rubber mallet or block of wood.
* Put the planetary ring back on.
* Make sure all parts fit together correctly. Nothing should feel loose or wobbly.
* Wipe down the mixer body to remove any fingerprints from assembly.
You have now completed the disassemble Kitchenaid mixer and reassembly process, along with painting. Your painting stand mixer is almost ready!
Caring for Your Painted Mixer
Treat your newly painted mixer gently at first. Even after the full cure time on the can, the paint can continue to harden over the next few weeks.
* Clean spills quickly.
* Use mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers.
* Don’t place very hot things on the painted surface.
This care helps keep your customized Kitchenaid mixer looking great. It preserves the Kitchenaid mixer color change you worked on.
What If Something Goes Wrong? (Troubleshooting)
Sometimes, things don’t go perfectly. Here are some common issues and how to fix them.
Drips
- What they are: Little runs of paint. Happens when paint is too thick or can is held too close/still.
- How to fix: Let the paint dry hard. Sand the drip down smooth with fine grit sandpaper (like 400 or 600). Clean the dust. Apply another thin coat of paint over the sanded area.
Uneven Finish
- What it is: Some spots look rough or not fully covered.
- How to fix: Make sure you shook the can well. Make sure your strokes overlap evenly. For fixing, let the paint dry. Lightly sand the rough spots with fine paper. Clean. Apply another thin coat to the whole surface for evenness.
Paint Doesn’t Stick
- What it is: Paint peels or scratches off easily.
- How to fix: This is usually bad prep. Did you clean well? Did you sand? Did you use primer? You might need to strip the paint off, clean, sand, and prime again. Use the right paint for metal/appliances. This highlights why sanding Kitchenaid mixer and proper cleaning are vital for durable appliance paint.
Paint Bubbles
- What it is: Small bubbles in the paint.
- How to fix: This can happen if the surface isn’t clean or if there’s moisture. It can also happen if you apply a new coat too soon. Wait for coats to dry according to the can. Make sure the surface is perfectly dry and clean. If bubbles happen, let the paint dry hard, sand smooth, clean, and repaint.
Don’t get discouraged if you have a small issue. Painting takes practice. You can usually fix problems with some sanding and another thin coat. The goal is a smooth, even, durable appliance paint finish.
Showing Off Your New Mixer
You’ve done it! You’ve gone through the steps to disassemble Kitchenaid mixer, clean, sand, prime, paint, and reassemble. You’ve achieved a beautiful Kitchenaid mixer color change. Now you have a truly customized Kitchenaid mixer. It looks fresh. It matches your style. It’s a great example of refinish Kitchenaid mixer and restore Kitchenaid mixer work. Place it on your counter with pride. It’s not just a mixer anymore; it’s a piece that fits your home.
Making Your Mixer New Again
Painting is a powerful way to make an old mixer look brand new. It lets you refinish Kitchenaid mixer instead of replacing it. This saves money. It’s good for the planet. You take something old and give it new life. It becomes a customized Kitchenaid mixer that is just yours. The process covers cleaning, careful sanding Kitchenaid mixer, using the best paint for kitchen appliances, and applying it correctly. Whether you are painting stand mixer for the first time or doing another one, taking your time and following the steps for spray paint Kitchenaid mixer with durable appliance paint will help you get a great finish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How long does the paint need to dry before I can use my mixer?
A: The paint needs to fully cure before heavy use. Check the paint can. It will list a “full cure” time. This is often 3-7 days, or even longer. Waiting for the full cure makes the paint hard and durable.
Q: Can I paint the metal band or logo on my Kitchenaid mixer?
A: You can paint them, but it’s often better to remove them or carefully mask them off before painting the main body. If you paint them, they might not look as sharp. You could also paint them a different color after the main color dries for an accent.
Q: What kind of paint should I definitely not use?
A: Avoid regular wall paint, craft paint, or standard spray paint not made for appliances or metal. These paints are not durable enough. They won’t stick well. They can chip or peel easily in a kitchen environment. Use best paint for kitchen appliances or durable appliance paint.
Q: Do I really need to sand the mixer before painting?
A: Yes, sanding Kitchenaid mixer is very important. It helps the new paint stick. It also smooths out any small bumps or scratches in the old finish. Skipping sanding can lead to paint peeling later. It’s a key part of refinish Kitchenaid mixer.
Q: Is it hard to take the mixer apart?
A: It can seem tricky the first time. But if you take your time and keep track of the screws, it’s manageable. Look for online videos specific to your mixer model for help on how to disassemble Kitchenaid mixer.
Q: Can I use a brush instead of spray paint?
A: You can, but getting a smooth, even finish without brush marks is very hard on a mixer’s curved surfaces. Spray paint Kitchenaid mixer gives a much nicer, more factory-like look.
Q: What if the paint smells after it dries?
A: Most appliance paints have a strong smell when wet and drying. The smell should go away after the paint is fully cured and aired out. Make sure you allowed for the full cure time in a well-aired space.
Q: Can this process fix deep scratches or dents?
A: Painting covers minor scratches. For deep scratches or dents, you might need to use a special filler made for metal or plastic before sanding and painting. Appliance epoxy putty can sometimes work.
By following these steps, you can successfully paint and customize Kitchenaid mixer. You’ll have a beautiful, refreshed mixer that looks and performs great. It’s a rewarding project to restore Kitchenaid mixer or just give it a fun Kitchenaid mixer color change.