Refinish Kitchen Cabinets Like a Pro with Stain

Refinishing kitchen cabinets offers homeowners a budget-friendly alternative to replacing them. Not only does refinishing preserve the integrity of the cabinet boxes, but it also refreshes their appearance and style. Without the cost or waste of new cabinets, refinishing provides an eco-friendly kitchen update.

There are many benefits that make refinishing worthwhile:

• Cost savings over full replacement of cabinets
• Maintains structural integrity of existing cabinetry
• Quick refresh without major remodeling
• An environmentally-friendly kitchen renovation option

What You Need to Refinish Cabinets

Refinishing cabinets is an accessible DIY project, but having the right tools makes the process easier.

In addition to these supplies, the existing cabinet boxes must be structurally sound without signs of damage or decay to be suitable refinishing candidates. Contact a kitchen remodeling company if the cabinets require extensive repairs or replacement.

Prepare Cabinets for Staining

Proper preparation is crucial when refinishing cabinets for an even, consistent stained finish. Follow these key steps:

1. Remove doors, drawers, shelves, and hardware using screwdrivers
2. Clean cabinet interiors and exteriors with TSP substitute and rinse thoroughly
3. Fill any cracks, holes, or imperfections with wood filler as needed
4. Sand surfaces uniformly using 100-150 grit sandpaper for an ultra smooth finish

Take your time with this process as it creates the foundation for your stained finish. Use painter's tape and drop cloths to mask off adjoining surfaces for a clean refinishing experience.

Abrasive Grits for Sanding

Starting with medium 100-150 grit sandpaper, work in the direction of the wood grain to avoid scratches. Progress through finer grits up to 220 before staining for a blemish-free sanded surface.

Removing Existing Finishes

If refinishing previously finished cabinets, use chemical strippers to remove existing paints or stains completely before sanding to raw wood again.

Choosing the Right Stain

With cabinets sanded and ready, selecting an appropriate cabinet stain is the next important step. The wood species and desired aesthetic impact the stain color and tone.

Factor in Wood Species

Carefully consider the existing cabinet wood when choosing a stain. For light woods like maple or birch, select lighter stain colors to allow the graceful wood grain to show through. For medium to dark wood species such as cherry, walnut or mahogany, you may opt for darker stains depending on personal preference.

Achieving Your Intended Look

The color and tone of stain for kitchen cabinets impacts the overall aesthetic. Dark espresso stains lend a modern, sophisticated look while lighter natural and golden tones create a more traditional vibe. Distressed paint techniques also remain trendy options. Test stain swatches first before committing to refinish your cabinets.

Staining Techniques for Kitchen Cabinets

With the right supplies and preparation completed, now the staining begins. Follow these techniques for smooth, professional results:

1. Stir and strain the stain to eliminate sediment
2. Work systematically from top to bottom and back to front
3. Use high-quality natural bristle brushes applying with wood grain
4. Maintain a wet edge for consistent color tones
5. Allow complete drying between stain coats
6. Sand lightly and wipe clean between coats
7. Apply protective finishes when fully cured

Maintaining a Wet Edge

As you apply the stain, overlap sections to maintain a wet edge rather than staining small isolated areas. This helps the color appear uniform without blotchiness once dry.

Multiple Thin Coats

Applying multiple thin, even coats creates better stain penetration than one heavy application. Three or more fine coats enhance the color depth while preventing drips or runs.

Once fully cured per the manufacturer's instructions, apply a sealing topcoat like polyurethane to protect the stained finish. Two to three coats ensures moisture resistance and allows for easier cleaning.

Other tips for completing your cabinet stain refinishing project:

• Reinstall any hardware and accessories removed earlier
• Properly clean brushes so they are ready for future staining jobs
• Refit doors, drawers and shelves once the finish is fully hardened

You can achieve professional refinished cabinets in any color you want with some careful prep and staining.