How To Refinish Cherry Kitchen Cabinets

How to Refinish Cherry Kitchen Cabinets

Cherry wood is a popular choice for kitchen cabinets because of its beautiful reddish-brown color and durable nature. However, over time, cherry cabinets can become scratched, dented, or faded. If your cherry cabinets are looking tired, you can refinish them to restore their original beauty.

Refinishing cherry cabinets is a relatively simple process that can be completed in a few days. However, it is important to take your time and follow the steps carefully to ensure a professional-looking finish.

Materials You Will Need

Sandpaper (120-grit, 220-grit, and 400-grit)
Tack cloth
Wood cleaner
Wood conditioner
Cherry stain
Polyurethane finish
Paintbrush or foam brush
Clean rags

Step 1: Prepare the Cabinets

The first step is to prepare the cabinets for refinishing. This involves removing all of the cabinet doors and hardware. Once the doors and hardware are removed, you can clean the cabinets with a wood cleaner to remove any dirt or grease.

Step 2: Sand the Cabinets

Once the cabinets are clean, you can begin sanding. Start with 120-grit sandpaper and sand the cabinets in the direction of the wood grain. Once you have sanded the cabinets with 120-grit sandpaper, switch to 220-grit sandpaper and sand the cabinets again. Finally, switch to 400-grit sandpaper and sand the cabinets one last time.

Step 3: Apply Wood Conditioner

After you have sanded the cabinets, you need to apply a wood conditioner. Wood conditioner helps to prepare the wood for staining by raising the grain and allowing the stain to penetrate more evenly. Apply the wood conditioner to the cabinets with a clean rag and allow it to dry for at least 30 minutes.

Step 4: Stain the Cabinets

Once the wood conditioner has dried, you can begin staining the cabinets. Apply the cherry stain to the cabinets with a paintbrush or foam brush and allow it to dry for at least 2 hours. Once the stain has dried, you can apply a second coat if desired.

Step 5: Apply Polyurethane Finish

Once the stain has dried, you can apply a polyurethane finish to the cabinets. Polyurethane finish helps to protect the cabinets from scratches and wear and tear. Apply the polyurethane finish to the cabinets with a paintbrush or foam brush and allow it to dry for at least 24 hours.

Step 6: Reassemble the Cabinets

Once the polyurethane finish has dried, you can reassemble the cabinets. Attach the cabinet doors and hardware and enjoy your newly refinished cherry cabinets.