Outdated kitchen cabs

I have a very seventies kitchen, the only thing unlovable about my vintage house. Not being able to afford the vision I have for my kitchen at this time, I did a few less expensive updates such as a linoleum checkerboard floor and painting the walls and trim. The cabinets are smooth plain veneer and I would like to paint them, as I have seen on home networks. Has anyone tried this and most importantly, does it come out looking cheesy? I don't want any small aesthetic upgrades I do to look cheap but I do want to freshen up that room. Any help would be great!