Possibly the least expensive way to dramatically change the look and feel of a home is by updating the cabinetry in the kitchen and bathrooms. However, buying brand new custom cabinets can be expensive and a long process. The good news is there are several different ways to re-use your current kitchen cabinets from the 80s and turn them into something you might find in a modern dream home.

In this article, we’ll provide a general overview of how to spruce up your old, existing cabinets into something you’ll be proud of and happy to look at.

Step 1: Research What Look You Want

Some great places to look for ideas are HGTV, Pinterest, home magazines, and kitchen showrooms in home improvement stores. Also, it can be fun to go “house hunting” for some ideas about what other houses in your area have.

Step 2: Set a Plan in Place

Determine what materials you will need for your project: sand paper, paint and/or stain, sealant, tape, brushes, tarps, etc. Once you get your project started, you’re going to want to make sure you have all the materials you’ll need to complete your project. If you’re unsure about what materials you will need, ask the friendly associates at the home improvement store you pick up your materials from. Chances are they are a DIYer (do it yourself-er) and can give you a few pointers.

Step 3: Prepare the Surface

Remove any of the existing finish from the surface of your cabinets with a gentle sand paper. Once you’ve removed all the finish, wash the surface of the cabinets with a damp cloth to remove any wood dust that might be sticking to the surface.

Step 4: Apply the Color

This is where you apply the stain/paint/faux finish you’ve established will give you the look you’re looking for. For an antique look, you can distress the furniture at this point using additional sandpaper and/or alternate distress tools (i.e. hammers, razor blades, etc.)

Step 5: Seal the Wood

Be sure to put a finish on your wood after the stain has dried to protect the wood. Some stains and paints have this built into their mixture, but make sure that your wood will be protected, especially since it will be in a moisture rich area like the kitchen or bathroom.

If you want to install new ready to assemble kitchen cabinets on your own, or if you have other questions about RTA cabinets, feel free to call us!