Converting old cabinet doors can be a great way to update the look of your kitchen. The most inexpensive option is to simply paint them. You can use a semi-gloss latex paint to ensure they are still durable and long-lasting.
If you would like to add some texture or pattern to the cabinets, you could also look at adding trim, laminate, or vinyl. If you don’t want to go through the effort of painting or adding other materials, you could also change out the hardware.
Consider replacing the knobs, handles, and hinges to give the cabinets a modern look. With a few simple updates, you can take your cabinets from drab to stylish.
What can I use for cabinet doors?
When it comes to cabinet doors, you have a variety of options for materials. Common materials used for cabinet doors include solid wood, laminated wood or plywood, MDF (medium density fiberboard), thermofoil, and glass.
Solid wood is one of the most naturally attractive and long-lasting options, but it can come with a hefty price tag. Laminate or plywood provide a more affordable option, with a consistent look that comes in a range of colors and textures, and can be painted to match any existing décor.
MDF is an even more economical choice, with a smooth, consistent surface. Thermofoil is an attractive, waterproof, and cost-effective choice, but it can be fragile and may require replacing more frequently.
Last but not least, glass is a great option for adding a touch of style, giving a unique and sophisticated look to any space.
How do you upcycle a kitchen door?
Upcycling an old kitchen door is a wonderful way to turn a discarded piece of furniture into a beautiful, useful item. The possibilities for transformation are endless, from creating a new home decor piece or accent furniture to creating a one-of-a-kind piece of art.
Here are some ideas for upcycling a kitchen door.
1. Make a bulletin board: A kitchen door can be the perfect base for a large bulletin board. Paint the door in a color that coordinates with your decor, then add corkboard sections and use decorative fabric to cover the edges.
You can also use tacks to hold up pictures and notes.
2. Build a bench: For a unique piece of furniture, you can repurpose a kitchen door into a bench. Start by sanding down the door and adding fresh paint or stain to match your furnishings. Then, add four legs, making sure the height is comfortable.
Finally, upholster the top with soft foam and a fabric that fits the room.
3. Create a picture frame: A kitchen door can make for an unusual photo frame. Start by sawing the door into three similar-sized sections. Remove any splinters or rough edges, then sand and paint the pieces.
Finally, place the photos inside and use glue or screws to keep them secure.
4. Use it as a room accent: An upcycled kitchen door can be a great accent piece in a room. Paint it a bright color and arrange it in an eye-catching way. Then, add hooks and hang apparel or decorations to it.
There are lots of creative ways to upcycle an old kitchen door. With a little imagination, you can turn a discarded piece into an heirloom piece to enjoy for many years to come.
How can I change the color of my kitchen cabinet doors?
Changing the color of kitchen cabinet doors is an easy and cost-effective way to refresh the look of your kitchen. You can achieve a transformation in as little as a day.
The first step is to decide how you want to change the color. This could involve simply repainting the existing cabinet doors, replacing them entirely with new color options, or selecting a finish that gives the look of a totally new color.
If you are repainting the existing doors, make sure to choose a quality paint that will last for some time. Begin by cleaning and sanding the cabinet doors to create a smooth surface. Once the sanding is done, use painter’s tape to tape off any areas you do not want to paint.
Prime the area and make sure to use a brush suitable for the surface. Once the primer is dry, apply the chosen paint with a foam brush. For added protection and to make it easier to keep your new paint color, use a clear protective coating on the cabinet doors.
If you are replacing the cabinet doors with a new color option, you will need to measure the door frames and select replacement doors that fit exactly. This may require ordering custom options if the measurements do not match pre-made options.
Once the new doors arrive, make sure to install the hinges, knobs, and screws properly, following any instructions provided with the doors.
If you are going for a new color look, but don’t have the time to commit to painting or replacing the doors entirely, you can select a finish that gives the look of a totally new color. You can select from stains and glazes as well as other options like crackle or antiquing.
When applying these finishes, you can manipulate the color and look of your kitchen cabinet doors with different treatments and finishes.
Whichever path you choose, be sure to carefully check the instructions and take your time. A color change can be both a wonderful investment and a great way to make a drastic difference in the look of your kitchen.
What should I do with my old kitchen cabinets?
If you’re planning to give your kitchen a new look but are trying to find ways to save money, repurposing your old kitchen cabinets is a great idea. There are many creative ways to put your old kitchen cabinets to good use around the house.
One option is to turn them into a storage system for your laundry room, pantry, or garage. You can use the cabinets to store items like cleaning supplies, tools, and outdoor supplies. Not only will it save space elsewhere in the house, but it will also add a unique touch to the room you repurpose it in.
You can also take your old kitchen cabinets and give them a facelift. This will take a bit more effort, but it can be very rewarding. You can repaint or refinish the cabinets to give them a more modern look, or you can add decorative features like crown molding or beadboard for an added touch of character.
Finally, you can also use your old kitchen cabinets to build furniture pieces for other areas of the house. For instance, you can repurpose the cabinets into decorative pieces for your living room, like a bookcase, TV stand, or sideboard.
With a bit of creativity and some basic DIY skills, you can easily turn your old kitchen cabinets into something brand new and beautiful.
How do you get paint to stick to laminate?
Getting paint to stick to laminate can be tricky, as the surface doesn’t easily accept most types of paint. The best way to make sure your paint sticks is to first clean the laminate surface and make sure it is completely dry and free of dust or debris.
Next, you’ll need to sand the laminate to create a rough surface, giving the paint something to grip onto. If the laminate surface is glossy, you should use a fine-grit sandpaper so you don’t damage the finish.
Once the laminate is sanded, vacuum the surface to remove any dust and wipe it down with a damp cloth to eliminate any oils or residue.
When you’re ready to paint, use a bonding primer designed for laminate surfaces and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper application. Once the primer is dry, you can apply two coats of acrylic latex or water-based paint, allowing each coat to fully dry before applying the next.
Make sure that you keep the coats light and don’t apply too much paint, as this can cause the paint to flake off. For best results, use a foam roller or brush to apply the paint; spray paint is not recommended for laminate surfaces.
Can I paint laminate cabinet doors?
Yes, painting laminate cabinet doors is possible, however there are a few important factors to consider before you begin. First, you must use the right type of paint. Oil-based paints are not recommended as they can cause the laminate surface to separate.
Instead, use a high-quality acrylic paint specifically designed to adhere to laminate surfaces.
In addition, be sure to thoroughly clean and degrease the cabinet doors with a non-abrasive cleaner before painting in order to ensure an even and lasting finish. Once clean, lightly sand the laminate with fine-grit sandpaper in order to provide a rough surface for the paint to adhere to.
Wipe away the dust after sanding and paint the door with two coats of the appropriate acrylic paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. For best results, use a foam roller to apply the paint.
Once the door has been painted, be sure to take good care of it to ensure the finish lasts. Use mild soaps or cleaners when cleaning and avoid abrasive or corrosive cleaning products.
What to do with peeling laminate cabinets?
If your laminate cabinets are suffering from peeling, there are some steps you can take to remedy the damage.
First, you’ll need to identify the cause of the peeling. Laminate cabinets can peel due to age, wear and tear, excessive heat, steam, or humidity, or poor adhesion to the substrate. Once the root cause has been identified, you can address it to repair the peeling laminate.
To start, you’ll need to clean the surface of the cabinets and remove any peeling laminate. Use a mild cleanser and soft cloth to avoid damaging the surface further. Once the surface is clean and dry, you can fix any underlying issues that may have caused the peeling, such as restoring water damage or reinforcing old adhesive.
Next, you’ll need to use good quality adhesive to bond the peeling laminate to the surface of the substrate again. Peel the laminate along its edge in the back of the cabinet and apply adhesive along the edges, then press it into place.
After 24 hours, you can thoroughly sand the area and apply a new layer of finish.
Finally, to prevent peeling laminate in the future, you’ll need to regularly inspect your cabinets and check for signs of wear and tear or environmental factors. Additionally, make sure to keep your cabinets well ventilated and away from extreme temperatures or humidity to prevent future damage.
What can I make out of an old cabinet?
There are many possibilities of what you can make out of an old cabinet. Here are some creative ideas:
• A mini greenhouse: Transform the old cabinet into a mini greenhouse. Use the shelves and drawers to separate and store different plants.
• A kitchen island: For those with limited kitchen space, using an old cabinet as a kitchen island is a great way to gain more counter space while adding a unique touch to your kitchen.
• A storage chest: Transform the old cabinet into a storage chest. This can be used to store everything from shoes to extra bedding.
• A bar: Transform the old cabinet into a home bar by replacing the shelves for wine racks. Add some chairs and you have an instant bar in your home.
• An entertainment center: Use the shelves and drawers of the old cabinet for organizing movies and game consoles.
• A buffet: For those who love hosting dinner parties, this can be a great way to create more space and make use of the old cabinet.
• A pet bed: For pet owners, using the old cabinet as a pet bed is a great way to give your pet a unique sleeping spot while adding a unique piece of décor to your home.
Can you reuse old cabinets?
Yes, you can definitely reuse old cabinets. Reusing cabinets is an excellent way to save money, and there are many different ways to accomplish this. One of the simplest ways is to simply paint your old cabinets to give them a fresh look.
You can also sand and refinish them in order to restore their original luster. Another great option is to replace some of the cabinet doors or drawer fronts with other materials like glass or wood. Finally, you can also invest in new hardware or decorative pieces to give your old cabinets a whole new look and feel.
Regardless of how you choose to reuse your old cabinets, it’s important to make sure they are still structurally sound before you begin to make any modifications.
How do I make my kitchen cabinets look like furniture?
Making your kitchen cabinets look like furniture is a great way to bring a touch of elegance to your kitchen and enable you to customize the look and feel of your space. There are a few different ways to achieve this.
First, you can opt to paint your kitchen cabinets in a range of colors and styles. You may choose to paint them white for a crisp and clean look, or select from a wide variety of shade options that suit your personal taste.
A glossy finish can also enhance the look of your cabinets and bring an added richness and depth to the space.
Second, you can use hardware and cabinet accessories to elevate the look of your cabinets. This includes installing new knobs and handles and adding trims and accents. By selecting hardware that matches the color of your cabinets, you can draw more attention to the furniture-like details and design.
Third, consider replacing cabinet doors and drawers to create a statement piece. You can choose from a variety of materials such as wood, glass, metal, and even acrylic to make a bold statement in your kitchen.
You can also add paneled cabinets and surface inserts to bring even more life to your kitchen space.
Finally, the right lighting can bring out the beauty of your cabinets, making them look even more like furniture. You can choose from recessed lighting, wall-mounted fixtures, and pendant lighting, to name a few.
The effect can be dramatic and can transform the look of your kitchen.
By following these steps, you can make your kitchen cabinets look like furniture. With the right materials and design approach, you can create a show-stopping look that you’ll love for years to come.
What tools do you need to make custom cabinets?
In order to make custom cabinets, you will need a variety of tools depending on the complexity of what you are creating. Some basic tools you will need include a saw (circular or table saw, miter saw, jig saw, etc.
), a drill, wood glue, screws, clamps, a hand router, and sand paper. Additionally, you may need a plate joiner, which is a tool that helps to create strong joints in cabinets, and a biscuit joiner, which connects two things together in a way that is similar to how a plate joiner does.
For more complex cabinetry, you may need a lathe in order to turn certain pieces for unique designs. Additionally, you will need layout tools such as a rafter square, combination square, and framing square, as well as measuring tools such as a tape measure, ruler, and square.
Finally, you should purchase safety equipment such as dust masks, safety glasses, and hearing protection to ensure your safety in the workshop.
How do I turn my old cabinet doors into shaker doors?
Turning an old cabinet door into a shaker door is actually easier than you may think. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you do it!
1. Start by measuring the dimensions of your cabinet door. Make sure to measure the rail, stile and panel sections as well as the door opening height and width.
2. Using a table saw, cut two pieces of ¾ inch thick wood that are the same width as the rail sections of your cabinet door. These will become the rails for your shaker door.
3. Cut two pieces of ¾ inch thick wood that are the same width as the stile sections of your cabinet door. These will become the stiles for your shaker door.
4. Drill pocket holes into the rails and stiles using a pocket hole jig. Make sure to use the appropriate sized drill bit for the thickness of wood you are using.
5. Attach the rails to the stiles using pocket screws and wood glue.
6. Cut a piece of ¼ inch thick plywood to the exact size of the door panel section on your cabinet door.
7. Secure the plywood panel to the frame of the shaker door using pocket screws and wood glue.
8. Sand the shaker door with 120-grit sandpaper to remove any rough spots or imperfections.
9. Apply a stain to the shaker door or paint it with a color of your choice.
10. Install the shaker door in place of your old cabinet door.
You should now have a beautiful shaker door for your cabinet!
Can I put new cabinet doors on old cabinets?
Yes, you can put new cabinet doors on old cabinets. This is a great way to save money if you don’t want to buy all new cabinets. In fact, this is a very popular project for DIYers who want to update their cabinets and give their kitchen a more modern look.
Cabinet doors come in a variety of styles and colors and you can choose one that fits your kitchen. Depending on the style and quality you select, you may even be able to repaint the old cabinets to match the new one.
When replacing the old cabinet doors, it’s important to measure so the new doors fit properly. You should also consider the type of material you want to use. Vinyl and laminate is an inexpensive choice and fairly easy to install.
Wood is a more expensive option and requires some carpentry experience to install. Once you have made your selection and purchased the new doors, take time to do a thorough cleaning of the surfaces of the old cabinets before attaching the new door.
With a bit of care and attention, you can have a beautiful new kitchen in no time at all.
Is it cheaper to reface or replace cabinets?
It depends on the condition of the cabinets and the type of work you’re planning on doing. Refacing cabinets is typically more affordable than replacing them, and will also preserve the existing framework of your cabinets.
Refacing involves replacing only the doors and drawer fronts, usually with new veneer or vinyl, and then replacing the existing hinges and knobs with new ones. This can be a great option if you’re looking to give your cabinets a facelift without spending too much.
On the other hand, replacing cabinets requires you to remove the existing cabinets and install all new ones, which can be more costly and labor-intensive. Ultimately, it comes down to your budget and the amount of work you’re looking to do.
How do I rework my cabinets?
Reworking your cabinets can be a great way to give your kitchen a fresh look and update the aesthetics of the space. Depending on your budget and style. One option is to paint and refinish your cabinets to achieve a specific color and finish.
This is a great and cost-effective way to completely change the look of your cabinets. You’ll need to prepare and clean the surfaces before applying the paint, and sanding the surface can help with adhesion and give the paint a better finish.
If you want to make a more dramatic change to your cabinets, you can refinish or replace the doors and hardware. Replacing the doors gives you more options for customization, as long as you also get the right size and fit.
Refinishing the doors can also make them appear brand new, but it’s important to make sure that the finish you choose stands up to regular use, such as cleaning and wiping down the surfaces.
You can also give your cabinets a fresh look by adding decorative trim or molding. Adding or replacing trim pieces can instantly update the look of your cabinets and give the space a more finished look.
Decorative moldings can further add interest and charm to the cabinet doors and drawers.
If you have the budget and tools necessary, you can also install new cabinets, which can completely transform the look and feel of your kitchen. Replacing the cabinet boxes, shelves, and drawers provide more room for storage and will provide you with a kitchen update with a modern look.
However, it’s important to consider your workspace and size constraints when installing new cabinets, as the sizes can be quite different than what you’re currently using.
