This same question came up recently for a home I was selling. I called a nearby color specialist. She told me that the strong grain pattern would be easier to work with in darker colors. Also, use a professional who will work with epoxy paints. "They don't like to because it is more difficult" but "the results are worth it". Have fun with your project.

Thank you! We will be using a professional. I will mention the epoxy. Thanks again!

We do recommend a professional that will thoroughly clean and prep the cabinets and then spray them. Once they are cleaned our guys use a primer and then we use the Sherwin-Williams Pro Classic paint.

Thank you! Are you in the Mpls area?

I just had a clients old kitchen cabinets painted - 2 tone, blue on the upper and off white on the lowers. Looks fabulous, they did a light sand to remove the finish, primed and used a semi gloss finish - they look fabulous and some of the grain is showing thru which looks nice actually. Depends on the look/feel you want - this home is a traditional modern style.