How to Makeover Kitchen Cabinets

Remodeling an entire kitchen is often not cost effective. Undertaking a kitchen cabinet makeover can represent a good compromise. With a little skill and creativity, anyone can transform existing kitchen cabinets into a fresh look.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Drill or screwdriver
• Sandpaper
• Paint or varnish
• Kitchen hardware

1. Determine your color scheme and how you want the makeover to look. Finding just the right color to complement the existing interior is as simple as taking a few snapshots of the space and showing those pictures to a home improvement store salesperson.

2. Wash the kitchen cabinets with a mild dish soap and warm water solution. Make certain any grease, dust and any other contaminants have been removed before applying any paint or stain. Failing to do this may result in unwanted flaws and stains in the paint.

3. Remove the kitchen cabinet hardware. Use a drill or screwdriver to remove hinges and drawer and door pulls. Set aside the hardware if you plan to reuse it.

4. Sand each cabinet door and drawer face with medium grit sandpaper to remove any varnish or existing paint. Re-sand the cabinets with fine grain sandpaper for a prepared surface that will readily take the paint.

5. Paint or varnish the cabinetry with the color or stain. Allow it to dry for at least 24 hours. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on the paint or varnish for proper drying times.

6. Install the retained hardware you removed prior to sanding the cabinets. Install any new pulls or handles.

Tips & Warnings

• When doing a kitchen cabinet makeover, include the backs of the cabinets and drawers as well.
• Once the existing hardware has been removed and the cabinets are drying, examine the hardware for any blemishes or debris to remove.
• When using power tools, wear eye protection and gloves at all times.
• Make sure you have proper ventilation when you paint or when you apply varnishes and stains.