Preparation

• When refacing your kitchen cabinets, start with a clean foundation that has been treated to accommodate your choice of finish. The amount of preparation work you will need to perform will depend on the existing condition of your cabinets. Some cabinet doors may need a good cleaning to remove residue while others may need to be stripped and sanded. When you choose a method of design for this project, research and implement the proper preparation techniques to insure the best results.
  
  

Paint

• Paint is an easy and budget-friendly way to reface kitchen cabinets. Choose a color that complements the design of your kitchen, or use tape and two colors of paint to create a two-tone design. Remove the doors from the cupboards, and remove any hardware from the cabinet doors so that you can prepare the surfaces for refinishing. Paint the cabinet boxes and doors with a primer coat of paint, and allow them to dry. Using a small roller or paintbrush, apply the paint color of your choice. Allow it to dry before adding a second coat. Add a third coat, if needed. You can use a stenciling kit to add desired decorative designs. Replace the hardware, and reinstall the cabinet doors.
  
  

Veneer

• Wood veneer is wood that is sliced and peeled from a log in a thin layer. Wood veneer is available for purchase in sheets with a peel-and-stick backing that allows it to adhere to flat surfaces. Veneer comes in a variety of grains. Cabinets with a flat, non-beveled design are the best candidates for this method of refacing. Remove the cabinet doors, and prepare all surfaces accordingly. You'll need to measure the size of each surface to be covered, and cut a sheet of veneer to that size. Peel the backing away from the veneer sheet to expose the sticky side, and press the sticky side against the cabinet using a veneer roller and smoothing blade to eliminate air bubbles. When complete, replace the hardware and return the doors to the cabinets.
  
  

Wallpaper

• Dress your cabinet doors in wallpaper that complements the existing framework, or paint the framework to match your choice of wallpaper. The design patterns of wallpaper are abundant; choose one that suits your sense of style to create a truly personalized cabinetry design. Add warmth with rich tones, whimsy with decorative patterns or old-word charm with textured wallpaper. Remove the doors, and prepare them for the application of wallpaper. Measure the cabinet doors, and cut sheets of wallpaper to size. You should soak the wallpaper in water to activate the glue. Remove the sheet from the water, and allow any excess water to drip off before you place it on the door. You can use a roller to smooth out any air bubbles. Trim off any excess paper with a utility knife.
  
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