One of the most affordable methods of completely changing your kitchen is to refinish your cabinets with stain. It could be that your cabinets are out of date, shabby or just no longer fit your style, but a new stain can give your room a new appearance. With the proper tools, patience and technique, a professional-appearing finish can be realized without having to spend the money it would cost to remodel the entire house.
This is a step-by-step process to assist you to refinish your kitchen cabinets using stain.
Why Refinish Cabinets Instead of Replacing Them?
Cabins are expensive to replace, and in most cases, they cost thousands of dollars.
It is cost-efficient to refinish them with stain, which will enable you to:
Saving money: Staining is a little of what it costs to replace cabinets.
Modernize your kitchen: New stains may be imitations of expensive wood finishes.
Use good quality wood: The old cabinets usually consist of solid wood, which is stronger than most of the new ones.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Prepare in advance all the tools and materials. It will be easier to have everything prepared.
The following is a list of the things that you will need:
- Screwdriver (to pull out cabinet doors and hardware).
- Sandpaper (medium grit and fine grit, typically 120 grits, and 220 grit).
- Sanding block/electric sander.
- Wood stain (whatever your choice of color is).
- Staining pads or paintbrushes.
- Clean rags/lint free clothes.
- Wood conditioner (not always necessary but it is recommended when using softwoods such as pine).
- Polyurethane or protective coating.
- Old sheets or drop cloths (to cover your floors).
- Painter’s tape.
Step 1: Remove Cabinet Doors and Hardware
Begin by taking out your cabinet doors, drawers and all the hardware including knobs, handles and hinges. This will enable you to do each section separately so that the stain is smooth and even. Label all the screws and hardware that you have to keep in bags to avoid losing.
Note: It is a good idea to take a picture of your cabinets before you pull out the doors. This will facilitate reassembly.
Step 2: Clean the Cabinets Thoroughly
Clean the surfaces before sanding or staining so as to remove grease, dirt and grime. Apply a degreaser or a head of warm water and dish soap. Clean off all the pieces using a wet cloth and dry thoroughly.
Note: It is important to note that stains and finishes are easier to apply to clean wood. Failure to do this may give a blotchy finish.
Step 3: Sand the Cabinets
The sanding is essential to achieve a good and professional finish.
Here’s how to do it right:
Begin with medium-grit sandpaper (120 grit): Sand off all surfaces to remove the old finish and level out the imperfections.
Move to fine-grit sandpaper (220 grit): This is used to make the wood take up the stain evenly and also to give it a smooth finish.
Clean up dust: Wipe down the cabinets after sanding with a damp cloth or tack cloth.
Tip: When dealing with softwoods such as pine, it is a good idea to apply wood conditioner and then stain it. This makes it not be blotchy and more homogenous.
Step 4: Apply Wood Conditioner (Optional but Recommended)
Wood conditioner is used to achieve even staining particularly on softwoods or porous wood. Use either a brush or cloth to apply it as per the instructions of the manufacturer. The conditioner is normally applied and allowed to sit between 15-30 minutes before staining.
Step 5: Stain the Cabinets
Then there is the enjoyable part, the part of adding color!
Select your stain: Select one that is in harmony with your kitchen. The most popular options are walnut, cherry, espresso and natural oak.
Apply the stain: Brush, sponge or rag stain should be applied in the grain of the wood. Use liberally so as not to streak.
Wipe off excess: Wipe off excess stain after a couple of minutes (refer to the instructions of the manufacturer), with a clean cloth.
Drying: The stain should be allowed to dry, normally 24 hours, and then more coats can be added.
Note: First test your stain on a scrap of wood of which you do not see. This will make you perceive the end color before you make up your mind.
Step 6: Apply a Protective Finish
The process of staining does not ensure that your cabinets will not be subjected to the daily wear and tear. Your cabinets will be durable and long lasting with a clear protective finish such as polyurethane.
Select your finish: Satin or semi-gloss finishes are considered common with kitchens.
Put on thin coats: With a clean brush or foam applicator apply against the grain.
Sand between coats: Sand in between coats with fine-grit sandpaper to give a smooth finish.
Coat 2-3 times: Coating several times makes it durable and also makes it look professional.
Step 7: Reattach Doors and Hardware
When all your cabinets are completely dry, reinstall all the doors, drawers and hardware. Ensure that doors are well aligned and hinges are functioning well.
Note: Screws should not be tightened too hard otherwise, it may crack the wood or strip the holes.
Additional Tips for a Professional Finish
Ventilated working conditions: Stains and finishes are very volatile in nature. Open windows and use fans to get air circulating.
Apply painter tape: Keep walls, countertops, and floors dry.
Go slow: Hurrying is a cause of error. Every process, cleaning, sanding, staining, and finishing, needs time.
Light: Natural light will make streaks or shadowy spots easier to see.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Omission of the sanding stage: It leads to the uneven absorption of stains.
Failure to use a wood conditioner: This may lead to unsatisfactory finishes, particularly on softwoods.
The use of stain too thickly: Results in a sticky uneven surface.
Failure to use any protective finish: Cabinets will not last long without it.
