Stripping Kitchen Cabinets Do Yourself

Stripping Kitchen Cabinets: The Ultimate DIY Guide

Kitchen cabinets are often the focal point of a kitchen. They can make or break the overall design and can significantly impact the functionality of the space. If your kitchen cabinets are looking tired and outdated, you may be considering replacing them. However, replacing kitchen cabinets can be a costly and time-consuming project. A more affordable and less disruptive option is to strip and refinish your existing cabinets.

Stripping kitchen cabinets is a process that removes the old finish from the cabinets so that they can be repainted or stained. While it may seem like a daunting task, stripping kitchen cabinets is a relatively simple project that can be completed in a weekend.

Materials You'll Need

Paint stripper
Paintbrush or roller
Chemical-resistant gloves
Safety glasses
Respirator
Plastic scraper
Steel wool
Clean rags

Steps

Before you begin, it's important to remove all of the hardware from the cabinets. This includes the doors, drawers, knobs, and handles. Once the hardware is removed, you can begin stripping the cabinets.

Apply the paint stripper to a small area of the cabinet using a paintbrush or roller. Let the stripper sit for the amount of time specified on the product label. Once the stripper has had time to work, use a plastic scraper to remove the old finish. Be careful not to gouge the wood.

Once you have removed the old finish from a small area, you can begin working on the rest of the cabinet. Apply the stripper to a larger area and let it sit for the specified amount of time. Use a plastic scraper to remove the old finish, working in small sections.

Once you have removed the old finish from all of the cabinets, use steel wool to smooth out any rough edges. Wipe down the cabinets with a clean rag to remove any residual stripper.

Tips

Work in a well-ventilated area.
Wear chemical-resistant gloves, safety glasses, and a respirator.
Test the paint stripper on a small area of the cabinet before applying it to the entire surface.
Be patient. Stripping kitchen cabinets can be a time-consuming process.
If you are unsure about how to strip kitchen cabinets, consult with a professional.

Conclusion

Stripping kitchen cabinets is a relatively simple project that can be completed in a weekend. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can save money and give your kitchen a fresh new look.