Can you paint cabinets without using primer?

A primer, sometimes called undercoat, is a coating put on materials meant to prepare it for painting. The primer guarantees a much better adhesion of the paint to your surface. Not only that, but it increases durability of the paint and offers more protection for the surface that's being painted. 

When it comes to cabinets that are in a high traffic area, such as your kitchen, you are going to need all the durability you can get. Primer ensures that your final coats are going to adhere to the best possible degree, meaning no chipping, peeling or bubbling. Primer also gives your final cabinet surface the durability it needs against common wear and tear, such as closing or "slamming" cabinets over and over, accidental bumps and bangs, as well as being resistant to occasional contact with moisture. 


Primer will provide increased and proper adhesion, and more cabinet durability all around.