How to Repaint Kitchen Stove Knobs
Kitchen stove knobs often receive more wear and tear from constant contact with oily fingers, splattering food, hot grease and other damaging elements than most people realize. At other times, the paint color simply doesn't match a kitchen's decor and should be changed. Unfortunately, plastic stove knobs have historically been difficult to repaint due to the inability of paint to stick to them well, but modern developments in paint formulation have made possible spray paints that are specifically designed to bond with smooth plastic.
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Remove all the knobs from the stove by grabbing tightly to the outer edges and pulling out straight. Pulling them out straight ensures that the post will not break through the plastic and make the knobs unusable.
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Clean the knobs with a sponge, warm water and dish detergent. Wipe away grease, dust or dried food stuck to the knobs, which can cause the paint to not adhere well.
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Scuff the external faces of the knobs lightly with a fine-grit sandpaper or piece of steel wool to give the surface a slightly rougher surface and make it easier for the paint to bond with the plastic. Continue until you can see tiny scratches on all visible surface areas.
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Place the knobs on a flat surface and, from a distance of 8 inches, spray in a back-and-forth motion until the knobs are thoroughly coated. Make sure to use a spray paint specially formulated for use with plastic. Allow them to dry for the period indicated on the spray can. If necessary, reapply.
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Use a complementing color to touch up raised or recessed temperature or directional marks on the knobs. For recessed areas, dip a cotton swab into the paint and fill the depression, then use a second swab to wipe away excess paint before it dries. For raised areas, use a swab to lightly dab at the protrusion until it is covered. Allow the knobs to dry overnight.
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Replace the knobs carefully so as to not damage the post holes. Make sure they are positioned properly and fully in place against the stove face.
References
- "Kitchen Ideas;" Better Homes & Gardens; 2009
- "Expert Paint: Painting Kitchens: How to Choose and Use the Right Paint for Your Kitchen Walls, Ceilings, Floors, Cabinets, Countertops, and Appliances;" Steve Jordan and Judy Ostrow; 2004
Tips
- Spray in short small bursts to keep the paint consistent on all knobs.
Warnings
- Avoid spraying too close or too quickly, or paint may pool and run off the knobs and create drip marks.
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