Craftsmanship
The Ugly Duckling is a family-run business specialising in bespoke hand-painted kitchens and cabinetry.
Based in Winsford, Cheshire, we work across the local area and regularly travel nationwide for bespoke cabinetry projects. From traditional in-frame kitchens built by skilled cabinetmakers through to contemporary fitted cabinetry, every project receives the same level of care, attention and craftsmanship.
With over 12 years of experience, we have worked on a wide range of cabinetry including previously painted kitchens, high-gloss finishes, laminated surfaces and newly fitted cabinetry. Many of the projects we undertake are already beautifully made; our role is to enhance and elevate them through a carefully considered hand-painted finish.
Alongside our hand-painted cabinetry services, we are also Granite & Stone Spray Specialists, offering our professional Spray Granite system for worktops, tiles and flooring. This specialist finish provides a seamless stone-effect surface without the disruption and expense of replacement.
We believe the quality of any finish is defined by the standards behind it. Every project is approached with the same pride, attention to detail and commitment to achieving a finish that not only looks beautiful on completion, but continues to perform within a busy home for years to come.
Our Process
Every project begins with a walkthrough of the kitchen so we can explain exactly what will happen at each stage. We then carefully set up our drying systems and preparation area before any work begins.
Doors, hinges and hardware are removed so we can access the full kitchen framework and properly prepare every surface, not just the obvious areas.
Any necessary repairs and surface preparation are carried out before the cabinetry is thoroughly cleaned, degreased and mechanically sanded using our dust controlled system, creating a smooth and stable surface ready for paint.
All visible areas are hand-painted, including all cabinet doors and drawer fronts, including backs, along with visible framework, end panels, trims, plinths and internal frames to glass cabinets. We apply specialist adhesion primers followed by durable cabinet topcoats specifically designed for kitchen cabinetry and everyday use.
Between coats, surfaces are carefully hand sanded and denibbed to maintain a smooth, consistent finish. Each coat is then professionally laid off by hand to create the seamless appearance our work is known for.
Once the finish has fully cured, the kitchen is carefully reassembled and all existing hardware is thoroughly cleaned before being carefully refitted. Alternatively, new hardware can also be fitted where required.
The result is a beautifully hand-painted kitchen with a durable finish designed for both visual appeal and everyday use.
Products & Finishes
We use professional cabinet coating systems developed specifically for kitchen cabinetry.
Our specialist primers and cabinet paints are chosen for their adhesion, durability and long-term performance within busy homes. These professional coating systems are widely used throughout the kitchen and cabinet manufacturing industry and are trusted by both bespoke cabinetry makers and professional finishing specialists for their durability and long-term performance.
All cabinetry is hand-finished using carefully selected brushes and specialist roller systems, allowing us to create a smooth, even finish whilst still retaining the character and craftsmanship of a hand-painted kitchen.
We offer carefully selected finish options including matt and satin, with alternative finishes also available upon request.
We can also colour match into many of the industry’s leading paint collections including Farrow & Ball, Little Greene, Paint & Paper Library and Benjamin Moore, giving clients access to thousands of carefully curated shades.
The result is a durable, beautifully hand-painted finish designed to complement both traditional and contemporary cabinetry.
Project Gallery
Let’s Discuss Your Project
If you’d like a quotation, colour advice, or simply want to chat through your plans, we’d love to hear from you. Send us a message and we’ll get back to you within 24 hours.