When it comes to giving your home a bold and sophisticated look, black cabinets are in! They are like a little black dress, classy and timeless. Choosing the right paint for cabinets can make all the difference between a flat finish and a dynamic appearance that enhances the room’s aesthetic. Let me explore some of the best black paint colors for cabinets and share tips on selecting the perfect shade for your own home. You know I’ll share a few black paint projects along the way. Make sure to check out this post before you head to the paint store.
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Types of Black Paint
Let’s first talk about types of black paint. Choosing the right black paint for cabinets can be a game-changer in transforming your kitchen or bathroom. Key factors include the paint’s base (oil or water) and the finish (matte, semi-gloss, gloss). Each type of paint has its unique characteristics, and choosing the wrong one can make a lasting effect.
Oil-Based vs. Water-Based
Oil-based paints are known for their durability and smooth finish, which can be ideal for high-traffic areas like cabinets. They resist chipping and can withstand regular cleaning. However, they emit strong odors and usually require chemical solvents for cleanup.
Water-based paints, often called latex paints, are easier to clean up with soap and water. They have low VOC emissions, making them a healthier choice. While they might not be as hard-wearing as oil-based types, advancements have made them quite durable. They’re quicker to dry, which is convenient when painting cabinets.
Matte, Semi-Gloss, and Gloss Finishes
Matte finishes offer a non-reflective surface and can hide imperfections well. Although they might not be as easy to clean, they provide a modern, subtle look.
Semi-gloss finishes strike a balance between matte and gloss. They reflect some light, giving a polished appearance without being too shiny. The added sheen allows for easier cleaning, making them popular for cabinet use.
Gloss finishes are highly reflective and can make your cabinets stand out. They can highlight imperfections if the surface isn’t smooth. High gloss is easy to clean and extremely durable, ideal for spaces needing extra shine and resilience.
What’s the best finish for black paint for cabinets?
While this is obviously a personal preference, the majority vote will tell you to choose at least a satin finish with a durable water based or oil based paint. The glossier the sheen, the more durable the finish. Water based finishes have come a long way over the years as far as durability and have become the more popular choice over oil based paints for cabinets. In a nutshell; a satin or semi-gloss finish with a durable water based paint product is the most popular choice when choosing a black paint for kitchen cabinets.
Top Big Box Black Paint Brands
Choosing the right black color for cabinets can transform the look of a kitchen or bathroom. Top brands like Behr, Sherwin-Williams, and Benjamin Moore offer high-quality options that vary in finish and durability. These brands are a good choice if you are looking for a big box brand of paint.
By the way, I recently tested most of these brands when looking for the best white paint for kitchen cabinets. It would be a good idea to check out that post too!
Behr
Behr is known for providing excellent coverage and a rich selection of shades. Their Premium Plus Ultra line is especially popular for its paint and primer in one, eliminating the extra prep work. Users appreciate the low odor and stain-resistant properties that make maintenance a breeze. With a smooth application, Behr offers deep, refined black hues that suit modern decors. It’s a great choice for DIYers due to its affordability and ease of use. The paint’s quick drying time lets you complete projects in less time, although users should apply multiple coats for best results.
Sherwin-Williams
Sherwin-Williams is a go-to brand for those who want professional-grade quality. Their Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel line is perfect for cabinets because it dries to a hard, durable finish that resists wear. This paint offers excellent adhesion and levels nicely for a smooth finish.
The color range includes rich and sophisticated black shades that complement any style. Their paint is slightly more expensive but justifies the cost with its premium performance and long-lasting results. Sherwin-Williams also offers eco-friendly options with low VOC.
Benjamin Moore
Benjamin Moore’s paints are often praised for their vibrant colors and superior performance. The Regal Select or Advance lines are highly recommended for cabinet projects due to their self-leveling properties and beautiful finish. Customers love the exceptionally low VOC formulation, ensuring a safer home environment. The paint adheres well, providing a hard, washable surface perfect for high-traffic areas. Benjamin Moore offers a variety of black shades, each with unique undertones to suit different preferences. Though more expensive, the quality and result often make it worth the investment.
Top Boutique Paint Brands
I couldn’t write this post without giving a shout out to some of my favorite boutique paint brands. These are some of the best paints I’ve used and I would use them again and again to paint kitchen cabinets.
Heirloom Traditions
Honestly, Heirloom Traditions is probably the best product I’ve found that requires minimal effort to apply it to the surface. I previously used it to paint a few nightstands white.
General Finishes
General finishes is also a great paint as well. I wanted gray and white kitchen cabinets so I painted our laminate kitchen cabinets white with this brand. They were durable and held up well.
What about painting cabinets with Chalk Paint?
Word of caution that might be controversial: steer clear of Chalk Paint brands for any sort of high traffic surface!
Chalk paint is great for adding a matte texture or distressed look. But matte and distressed doesn’t go hand in hand with anything that gets a lot of use. If you do want to use a chalk paint product, check out this post where I share a video tutorial all about how to chalk paint furniture.
The downside to the “boutique paint brands” is that you are often limited with color choice. For example, Heirloom Traditions and General Finishes only have a few true black paint color available today. That might change with time, but for now you are limited in your paint colors.
Best Black Paint Colors for Cabinets
Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
One of our favorite blackest black paint colors is SW Tricorn Black. This rich, deep black has virtually no warm or cool undertones so it’s completely neutral. It’s a popular choice for those seeking a classic, timeless look that will never go out of style. Tricorn Black is a great option for black kitchen cabinets, as it pairs beautifully with a wide range of countertop materials and hardware finishes.
Benjamin Moore Wrought Iron
Another top contender for the best black paint is Wrought Iron by Benjamin Moore with it’s dark blue undertones. This warm black has a slightly softer appearance than Tricorn Black, making it an excellent choice for those who want to incorporate dark colors without overwhelming the space. Wrought Iron is one of our favorite black paint colors for creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere in your home. Sometimes it can be mistakes as a very dark gray color, but it is still black!
Heirloom Traditions Warm Embers
Heirloom Traditions Warm Embers is a stunning black paint color that offers a unique blend of warmth, depth, and sophistication. One of the most appealing aspects of Warm Embers is its versatility. This color works beautifully in a variety of design styles, from traditional and rustic to modern and contemporary. When paired with natural wood tones, Warm Embers helps to create a cozy, cabin-like feel. Combined with sleek, metallic finishes, it takes on a more glamorous, upscale appearance.
I recently gave my mom’s kitchen an update by painting her upper cabinets black with Heirloom Traditions Warm Embers! I love how cozy and sophisticated it looks now.
I’ll share more about her kitchen soon when I get that post done. Let me share a quick “before pic.” I love the warm tone of this paint. It goes on incredibly smooth and doesn’t require a top coat!
Limousine Leather by Behr
This rich, dark hue is reminiscent of the sleek, high-end leather upholstery found in luxury vehicles, hence its name. One of the most striking features of Limousine Leather is its slight warm undertone. Despite its warmth, Limousine Leather is still a true black color.
General Finishes Lamp Black
General Finishes Lamp Black is a rich, deep black paint color that’s perfect for creating a bold and sophisticated look on cabinets, furniture, and accent pieces. This highly-pigmented, water-based acrylic paint offers excellent coverage and a smooth, durable finish.In terms of color, Lamp Black is a true black with no discernible undertones.
Sherwin Williams Iron Ore
Sherwin Williams Iron Ore is a stunning dark gray paint color with strong black undertones. One of the most intriguing aspects of Iron Ore is its ability to shift in appearance depending on the lighting and surrounding decor. In some settings, it may read as a true black, while in others, its dark gray qualities become more apparent.
Whether you’re painting an accent wall, updating your front door, or giving your kitchen a dramatic makeover with black cabinets, these are some great options to choose from. If you are looking for a cool black or warm black, I hope we’ve given you a few options.
Happy painting!