Restaining Kitchen Cabinets Darker

Restoring the luster of dated kitchen cabinets or completely transforming their appearance often involves restaining. Darker stains can impart a sense of richness and depth, modernizing older kitchens or adding a touch of dramatic flair. However, achieving professional-looking results requires careful planning and execution. This article outlines the necessary steps and considerations for restaining kitchen cabinets a darker color.

Key Preparations Before Starting

Adequate preparation is crucial for a successful restaining project. Neglecting these steps can lead to uneven staining, blotchiness, and ultimately, an unsatisfactory finish.

Remove Hardware:

Take off all cabinet hardware, including knobs, pulls, hinges, and any other attached elements. This ensures thorough staining and prevents hardware from becoming coated with stain. *

Clean the Cabinets:

Thoroughly clean the cabinets with a degreaser to remove grease, grime, and any built-up residue. Use a mild detergent and a soft sponge, followed by a clean water rinse and complete drying. *

Protect the Surroundings:

Cover countertops, floors, and appliances with drop cloths or plastic sheeting. Taping along edges provides additional protection against drips and spills.

Stripping Existing Finish

Stripping the existing finish allows the new stain to penetrate the wood evenly. The method employed depends on the type of finish currently on the cabinets.

Chemical Strippers:

Effective for removing multiple layers of finish or stubborn varnishes. Apply liberally, allow sufficient dwell time, and then carefully scrape away the softened finish. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and wear appropriate safety gear. *

Sanding:

A viable option for lightly finished cabinets or those with a single layer of stain. Start with coarser grit sandpaper and progressively move to finer grits for a smooth surface. This method creates dust, so proper ventilation and dust masks are essential. *

Liquid Sandpaper/Deglosser:

A less labor-intensive option for lightly finished surfaces. Deglosser chemically removes the sheen, allowing the new stain to adhere better. Ensure compatibility with the chosen stain before applying.

Repairing and Filling

Once the existing finish is removed, any imperfections become readily visible. Addressing these imperfections before staining results in a more professional and polished final look.

Wood Filler:

Use wood filler to fill any holes, dents, or gouges. Apply according to the manufacturer’s instructions, allow to dry completely, and sand smooth. *

Sanding Imperfections:

Sand any remaining imperfections, ensuring a uniformly smooth surface for even stain absorption. Use fine-grit sandpaper to avoid creating scratches.

Selecting the Right Stain

Choosing the right stain is paramount to achieving the desired aesthetic. Several factors influence stain selection.

Wood Type:

Different wood species absorb stain differently. Test the stain on an inconspicuous area or a scrap piece of the same wood to gauge the final color. *

Stain Type:

Oil-based stains penetrate deeply, providing rich color and durability. Water-based stains are easier to clean up and have lower VOC content. Gel stains are thicker and work well on vertical surfaces, minimizing drips. *

Desired Darkness:

Achieve darker colors by applying multiple coats of stain or choosing a darker shade within the desired color family. Test different options to determine the perfect depth of color.

Applying the Stain

Proper application technique ensures an even and consistent finish.

Apply Evenly:

Apply the stain with a brush, rag, or foam applicator, working in the direction of the wood grain. Maintain a wet edge to prevent lap marks. *

Wipe Off Excess:

After applying the stain, wipe off any excess with a clean cloth, working in the direction of the wood grain. This prevents blotchiness and ensures consistent color. *