How to Refinish Kitchen Cabinets With Wood

Refinishing wood kitchen cabinets can be time-consuming but rewarding. While the project requires patience and some effort, it will rejuvenate the look and feel of your kitchen.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Drop cloth
• Screwdriver
• Soft brushes
• Chemical paint stripper
• Putty knife
• Sandpaper (400-grit)
• Wood conditioner
• Soft cloth
• Stain

How to Refinish Kitchen Cabinets With Wood

1. Remove your cabinets' drawers, doors, hinges and handles, using a screwdriver as needed.

2. Use a drop cloth to protect your work area. Chemicals like stain and paint stripper will damage floors and carpets.

3. Apply a thick coat of paint stripper to the cabinets with a clean brush. Allow the stripper to sit for the amount of time recommended by the manufacturer.

4. Scrape the surface of the cabinets with the putty knife until all the old stain has been removed. Remember to scrape with the grain of the wood.

5. Sand the entire surface of the cabinets with 400-grit sandpaper. Make sure you sand with the grain until the surface is smooth and clean of the original finish.

6. Wipe the surface of the cabinets with a soft, damp cloth to remove any excess chemicals and dust. Wait until it is completely dry.

7. Apply a coat of wood conditioner to the entire surface with a clean brush. This will ensure the new stain absorbs evenly into the wood. Allow the cabinets to dry completely.

8. Apply a thin, even coat of stain to the entire surface of the cabinets with a clean brush. Wait until the first coat is dry before applying further coats. Continue to apply coats until the new finish achieves your desired depth and darkness.

Tips & Warnings

• If the cabinets are made of oak use a water-based stain since oak is a very dense wood.
• Work in a well-ventilated area when using chemicals like stains. Wear gloves when working with caustic chemicals.

References

• Lowe's Guide to Refinishing Furniture