Covering Old Kitchen Cupboard Doors

Covering Old Kitchen Cupboard Doors: A Comprehensive Guide

Kitchen cupboard doors bear the brunt of daily use, enduring spills, stains, and the inevitable wear and tear that comes with time. Replacing them can be an expensive proposition, but with a little ingenuity, you can give your kitchen a fresh, updated look without breaking the bank. Here's a comprehensive guide to covering old kitchen cupboard doors:

Materials You'll Need:

Contact paper, self-adhesive vinyl, or fabric
Measuring tape
Scissors or a utility knife
Squeegee or credit card
Optional: primer, paint, or stain

Step 1: Prepare the Cupboard Doors

Remove the doors from the cabinets and clean them thoroughly, removing any grease or dirt that may interfere with the adhesion of your covering material. If necessary, sand the doors lightly to create a smooth surface.

Step 2: Choose and Cut the Covering Material

Select a covering material that matches your kitchen decor and style. Contact paper and self-adhesive vinyl come in a wide variety of patterns and colors. If using fabric, choose a durable, easy-to-clean fabric such as canvas or vinyl. Measure and cut the covering material slightly larger than the door panel.

Step 3: Apply the Covering Material

For contact paper or self-adhesive vinyl: Peel back a small portion of the backing and align the material with the top edge of the door panel. Gradually peel back the rest of the backing while smoothing down the material with a squeegee or credit card to remove any air bubbles. Trim any excess material around the edges.

For fabric: If necessary, apply a thin layer of primer to the door panel to create a better bonding surface. Cut the fabric to the size of the door panel and place it over the primed surface. Use a staple gun to secure the fabric around the edges, pulling it taut as you go. Trim any excess fabric.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

If desired, you can paint or stain the covered door panels to add a pop of color or match them to your existing cabinetry. Allow the paint or stain to dry completely before reattaching the doors to the cabinets.

Tips for Success:

Use a sharp knife or scissors to ensure clean cuts.
Take your time and smooth down the covering material carefully to avoid wrinkles or air bubbles.
If using fabric, stretch it taut before securing it to prevent sagging.
Allow the adhesive to set completely before reattaching the doors to the cabinets.

By following these steps, you can transform your old kitchen cupboard doors with a fresh, updated look, saving both time and money.