Wood Kitchen Cabinet Refinishing
This instructable is intended to help you refinish stained or clear-coated wood kitchen cabinets. This guide will not help you paint old cabinets a solid color. My intent is to help people restore their natural wood kitchen cabinets.
You will need a minimum number of tools for the job:
- Cordless or electric drill
- paint applicators
- vibratory sander
- sanding blocks
- screwdriver
- rags
- Empty
- Rags
The first thing to do is test the new finish to see how well it will work with the existing one. Do this in a small area that is rarely seen. Follow all the steps below for this testing process. I would try an area next to the fridge that is never seen.
Remove cabinet doors with a cordless drill or hand screwdriver. You will also need to remove any knobs, hinges, or handles.
Clean cabinets with a mild solution of Dawn dishwashing detergent and water or clean with mineral spirits.
Begin the sanding process with 100-grit paper. This can be done with vibratory sanders, sanding blocks, and foam pads. You must remove all finish from cabinet parts. This is going to be a very laborious task. You can use a liquid stripper if you wish. As a precaution, a sanding dust mask or respirator-type filter mask are appropriate tools to use.
After finishing all of the above finishing with 100-grit paper, you should use 150-grit paper and finish the stripping process with 220-grit paper.
Before applying stains, sealers or clear coats, thoroughly vacuum and clean all surfaces.
If you are using a stain, apply it with a foam brush. Be sure to wear your rubber gloves. Allow the stain to dry for the recommended time according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Wipe the stain with a clean, non-tacky cloth.
When refinishing kitchen cabinets, it’s very important NOT to rush. Allow sufficient time for all fluid applications to fully cure before sanding or recoating.
If you are applying a clear sand sealer (recommended), this is your next step. I like to spray all my topcoats. Check with your paint supply company for instructions on how to brush or spray all finishes you will be working with.
Allow the sealer to dry completely, then lightly sand with 220 grit sandpaper. Spray, brush, or wipe on your next coat of sealer, let dry, and sand again.
Apply two final coats of your clear coat finish.
When refinishing your kitchen cabinets, if you’re not using stain, simply apply the sealer and top coats.
Screw the doors back on the cabinets and install the handles or knobs.
This is going to be a very time consuming project, maybe four days. The amount of time this will take will depend on your skill level, the size of the kitchen, and the drying time required for the finishing materials you are using.
This is going to be a very messy job; so make sure you have plenty of washcloths on hand. Much of your success will depend on how well you prepare the cabinet pieces for the new finish. If you get all of the old finish, your restoration project should turn out great.