Refinishing Kitchen Cabinets

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Refinishing kitchen cabinets is a good choice when the existing cabinets are in good condition, and the layout of cabinets and counters is satisfactory. If the condition of the cabinets is such that you need to replace the doors and drawer fronts, then you will be doing a refacing job. If the layout is not a good one for you, you should redesign your kitchen and replace the cabinets in a new configuration.

Furthermore, if the cabinets are currently stained in a dark stain, your only refinishing options are to make them darker, or to paint them. You can't refinish from dark to light. (Actually, it's possible, but it's such an involved and expensive process that you will be better off refacing).

So, let's assume your circumstances are such that you want to continue reading. Refinishing is a time-honored method of updating woodwork. Refinishing kitchen cabinets that are in reasonably good condition can produce beautiful looking results. However, it's a significant undertaking, requiring time and patience.

First, check the cabinets to make sure they are well made and in good condition. If the existing cabinets are painted, strip the paint off the back of one door or drawer front, to see that the natural wood is worth refinishing.

If you're dying to refinish something, but the cabinets aren't suitable, you can order new doors, drawer fronts, and veneers (refacing) that are unfinished. Starting with raw wood increases your chances of achieving the desired results.

If you're new at this, you should read up on how to go about refinishing kitchen cabinets. Brian Hingley authored a book entitled Furniture Repair and Refinishing which is easy to follow, and takes you through each step in detail. There are many more helpful sources out there as well.

If the cabinetry has an existing finish, the first step is to remove it. You will be using a chemical stripping agent. USE HEAVY RUBBER GLOVES AND DON'T GET THIS STUFF NEAR YOUR EYES. For how to use these chemicals, follow their instructions - they come in different strengths, vary from product to product, and

I'm not enough of an expert to get into greater detail about it. Make sure you have adequate ventilation, use a respirator and safety glasses, and dispose of the residue properly.

Once the stripper is removed, sand and clean the surface. If you haven't already picked the finish you want, this is the time to do it. You're ready to start the finishing process. Typically, a stain will be applied and allowed to dry. Then a clear lacquer or polyAcrylic blend is applied over the stain.

This should be done using a light coat, three times. Between each coat, give the surface a light sanding with a fine sandpaper (200 grit or higher) and make sure the surface is cleaned of any dust particles before putting the next coat on.

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Give each coat at least 1/2 hour to dry before sanding. This clear protective material can be in a flat, satin, semi-gloss, or glossy finish. Flat is not noticeable at all, and glossy is hard on the eyes (in my opinion). So I recommend using either the satin or the semi-gloss depending on your own preference.

By applying several light coats instead of one or two heavy coats, you will give your cabinets a rich luster and enhance the patina of the wood. Refinishing kitchen cabinets is one of those projects that you have to love doing. People who do, rave about the therapeutic benefits of this hobby, as well as all the money they save. Have fun, but keep those safety issues in mind.

If you have a question or comment, about refinishing kitchen cabinets, contact me by clicking here. And here's another opportunity to subscribe to our newsletter. You should do it - it's free, and it's pretty good.