How To Finish Unfinished Kitchen Cabinets

Unfinished kitchen cabinets offer a blank canvas for creating a personalized and stylish kitchen. Completing them, however, requires careful planning and execution. This article provides a comprehensive guide to finishing unfinished kitchen cabinets, ensuring a professional and long-lasting result.

1. Preparation is Key

Proper preparation is crucial for a smooth and even finish. Begin by inspecting the cabinets for any imperfections like knots or dents. Fill these with wood filler and allow it to dry completely. Once dry, sand the entire surface of the cabinets, starting with a coarser grit sandpaper (around 120-grit) and progressively moving to a finer grit (220-grit) for a smooth finish. This process removes any existing imperfections and creates a better surface for the primer and paint to adhere to.

2. Priming for Success

Priming the cabinets is a vital step that should not be overlooked. Primer seals the wood, preventing the absorption of the topcoat, which can lead to an uneven finish. Choose a high-quality primer specifically designed for the type of wood your cabinets are made of. Apply the primer evenly using a brush, roller, or sprayer. Allow the primer to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions before proceeding to the next step.

3. Selecting the Right Finish

Choosing the right finish is essential for both aesthetics and durability. Consider the overall style of your kitchen and the level of maintenance you are willing to undertake. Popular choices include paint, stain, and varnish. Paint offers a wide range of color options and a smooth, uniform finish. Stain enhances the natural beauty of the wood grain and is available in various shades. Varnish provides a protective layer and can be chosen in matte, satin, or gloss finishes.

4. Applying the Finish: Paint

If you choose to paint your cabinets, opt for a high-quality paint specifically formulated for kitchen cabinets. Apply thin, even coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Multiple thin coats will result in a smoother and more durable finish than one thick coat. Use a high-quality brush or roller for a smooth, even application. A sprayer can also be used for a more professional finish, but requires proper ventilation and safety precautions.

5. Applying the Finish: Stain

Applying stain requires a different approach than paint. Work in the direction of the wood grain, applying the stain evenly with a brush or rag. Allow the stain to penetrate the wood for a few minutes before wiping off any excess with a clean cloth. The longer the stain sits, the deeper the color will be. Multiple coats can be applied to achieve the desired depth of color. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

6. Applying the Finish: Varnish

After staining or painting, applying a varnish provides a protective layer and enhances the finish. Choose a varnish that complements the chosen paint or stain. Apply thin, even coats with a high-quality brush, allowing each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next. Sand lightly between coats with fine-grit sandpaper for an ultra-smooth finish.

7. Installation and Hardware

Once the finish is completely dry, the cabinets can be installed. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully for proper installation procedures. After installation, choose appropriate hardware, such as knobs and pulls, that complement the style of your kitchen and cabinets. Carefully install the hardware, ensuring it is securely fastened.

Finishing unfinished kitchen cabinets can be a rewarding DIY project. By following these steps and exercising patience, you can transform your kitchen and create a space that reflects your personal style.