We are looking to have our 1980's oak cabinets painted too. All the painters will use spray. Each one will use a different paint. One lacquer, one oil and one acrylic. Any opinions on what is best?

The oak grain is not going to disappear with paint on it. Some people like the look of the grain even with paint on it. In fact, a lot of compressed wood doors you buy nowadays (ready to be painted), have a fake grain etched into it.

The only way to get rid of the grain is to put some kind of skim coat on the surface with would fill the groves when it's dry. Then you would sand it smooth, prime and paint.

Get rid of the oil and use a waterborne paint like BM Satin Impervo or SW ProClassic. They look just as nice and won't make you sick.

You can use some Brushing Putty by Fine Paints of Europe to fill the grain if you wish. Personally, I think the grain showing through the paint looks nice. Use acrylic paints if you can because they will look good for the longest period of time. Valspar is probably not the best paint to use on kitchen cabinets but I don't know for sure because I have never used it...but it comes from a Big Box which usually translates to RUN AWAY! for me.

Cabinets are finished! I will take pics soon!
Thanks for all your help!

Sharon