Refinishing 1980 S Kitchen Cabinets

Refinishing 1980s Kitchen Cabinets: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you ready to give your outdated 1980s kitchen cabinets a fresh, modern look? Refinishing them is an excellent way to update your kitchen without the expense of a full remodel. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

1. Preparation

Before you start refinishing, you need to prepare the cabinets. Remove all hardware, doors, and drawers. Clean the surfaces with a degreaser to remove any dirt or grease. Fill any holes or cracks with wood filler and let it dry.

2. Sanding

Sand the cabinets with fine-grit sandpaper (120-150 grit). This will remove any existing finish and create a smooth surface for the new finish. Use a sanding block to ensure even sanding.

3. Priming

Apply a coat of oil-based primer to the cabinets. This will help the new finish adhere better and prevent the wood from staining. Allow the primer to dry completely.

4. Painting

Choose a paint that is suitable for kitchen cabinets. Apply two thin coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Use a light sanding between coats to remove any imperfections.

5. Finishing

Once the paint is dry, seal the cabinets with a clear polyurethane finish. This will protect the finish from wear and tear. Apply two thin coats of polyurethane, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

6. Reassembly

Once the finish is dry, reassemble the cabinets. Install the hardware, doors, and drawers. Your refinished cabinets are now ready to enjoy for years to come.

Tips

Here are some additional tips for refinishing 1980s kitchen cabinets:

If the cabinets are in good condition, you may only need to sand and paint them. However, if the cabinets are damaged or have a thick finish, you may need to strip them first.
Use a paint sprayer for a smooth, even finish.
Allow plenty of time for the finish to dry completely before using the cabinets.
If you are not comfortable refinishing the cabinets yourself, consider hiring a professional.