If a restricted budget forces you to keep a tight rein on kitchen renovation costs, one great way to cut corners is to give old cabinets a makeover

As long as cabinet construction is sturdy and surfaces not badly warped, the following easy to follow steps below can give cabinetry the face-lift required for a fresh, new look:

• Remove hardware – while you may want to clean up and reuse the hinges, replace handles and knobs with ones that will better enhance new kitchen décor. If you decide to replace hinges, consider concealed spring styles. Hardware holes that don’t match hardware replacements will, of course, need to be filled in and new ones drilled.
• Raised-panel cabinet doors usually have a center panel that can be removed; some pop out, others have screws that hold them in place. These-type panels can easily be removed before painting, unless they have already been painted in place.
• Remove surface buildup; use a scraper to remove gunk. Remove remaining residue with an appropriate grease-removing cleanser; check label for application guidelines and warnings. If everything checks out, follow directions for use, and then allow surfaces to dry thoroughly before continuing.
• Patch hardware holes made obsolete by new hardware with wood putty; use a putty knife. Follow instructions for dry time.
• Sand surfaces – use fine grain sandpaper; 400 to 600 grit. This will remove rough spots, even out the surface, and prepare the surface for primer.
• Apply primer – apply a thin layer; allow it to dry for at least 24 hours; longer in humid areas. Lightly sand; apply a second coat of primer, let dry and lightly sand again.
• Apply paint – two coats of gloss or semi gloss enamel for a nice, uniform finish; allow to completely dry between coats.

Old Hardwood Cabinets

For old hardwood cabinets that are unfinished or refinished, use a penetrating wood stain after step 4. Stir stain well, apply with a brush; rub off with a clean rag. The longer the wood stain stays on the wood before rubbing it off, the deeper the stain.

Wait at least 48-hours before applying polyurethane. Gently stir before use; do not shake the can. Shaking the can will result in air bubbles, creating an uneven finish. Follow instructions for drying time; usually 6 to 8 hours. Apply a second coat; this will seal the wood, protect it from kitchen grime, and enhance the natural wood grain.

In addition to traditional wood grain stains, oil-based pastel stains are available that give wood a soft pastel color; without compromising the beauty of the grain.

For a country look that will totally alter kitchen cabinetry style, replace removable cabinet door center panels with safety glass, Plexiglass® or other acrylic, bead-board painted in a contrasting color, or decorative pierced tin.

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The Comprehensive Guide to Home Renovations