Refinish Old Wood Kitchen Cabinets

July 8, 2019
By admin
Filed Under Kitchen Cabinets
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Refinish Old Wood Kitchen Cabinets: A Comprehensive Guide

Refinishing old wood kitchen cabinets is a rewarding project that can transform the look and feel of your kitchen without the expense of replacing them. With a little planning and elbow grease, you can restore your cabinets to their former glory and give your kitchen a fresh, updated look.

Materials You'll Need:

Sandpaper (80-grit, 120-grit, 220-grit)
Tack cloth
Wood filler
Primer
Paint or stain
Polyurethane
Oscillating tool (optional)
Paint stripper (optional)

Step 1: Preparation

Start by removing all the doors and drawers from the cabinets. Place them on a flat surface and label them so you know where they go. Next, clean the cabinets thoroughly with a degreaser to remove any dirt or grime. Allow them to dry completely before sanding.

Step 2: Sanding

Sand the cabinets in the direction of the wood grain, starting with 80-grit sandpaper to remove any existing finish or paint. Gradually switch to finer grits (120-grit, 220-grit) to smooth the surface. Use an oscillating tool to get into tight corners and crevices. Wipe away any sanding dust with a tack cloth.

Step 3: Repairing Blemishes

Fill any holes or dents in the wood with wood filler. Allow the filler to dry completely and sand it smooth with 220-grit sandpaper. If there is any remaining damage that can't be repaired with wood filler, consider using a paint stripper to remove the finish and start over with a new coat.

Step 4: Priming

Apply a coat of primer to the cabinets. This will help the paint or stain adhere better and provide a more even finish. Allow the primer to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Step 5: Painting or Staining

If you're painting the cabinets, use a high-quality enamel paint. Apply thin, even coats, sanding lightly between coats for a smooth finish. If you're staining the cabinets, use a stain that is compatible with the type of wood you have. Allow the stain to penetrate the wood for the desired amount of time, then wipe off any excess with a clean cloth.

Step 6: Polyurethane

Once the paint or stain is completely dry, apply a coat of polyurethane to protect the finish. Polyurethane is available in different finishes (gloss, semi-gloss, satin), so choose the one that best suits your kitchen. Allow the polyurethane to dry completely before reassembling the cabinets.

Step 7: Reassembly

Reassemble the cabinets by attaching the doors and drawers. Tighten all the screws securely and check that the doors and drawers open and close smoothly. Enjoy your newly refinished kitchen cabinets!