Suggestions for refinishing kitchen cabinets?

Question

My parent's house was built in 1984, so of course the cabinets are your typical, plain cabinets with an ugly brown stain/wood grain. This summer I plan to strip, sand, and stain them and also to add new hardware. I have never done anything this intense so I need some good suggestions please! (also include types of stain and color suggestions)

-Also the current stain of the cabinets is kind of dark-once I strip and sand would I be able to stain them to be a lighter shade? Thanks!

Answer 1

Try this site....this is what I'll be doing this weekend!

http://www.bejane.com/node/147

Answer 2

I had it done but you could lightly sand, use a good primer then put on final color. Replace hardware. Mine look like new cabinets.

Answer 3

Be very careful, are you absolutely sure the cabinets are solid wood and not a veneer?  Most likely you have veneer  - this was widely used in the 80's and may not stand up to the stripping and sanding you are planning to do. You may be better off by painting the cabinets with a kitchen and bath paint (designed specifically for long wear and humid environments) and with the introduction of new hardware - it can make for an impressive change. Check out Rockler.com for the hardware options.

Good Luck!

Tom A

Sr. Construction Project Manager

Albion, MI