Asked By:
Dave
We are in the process of renovating our house, but won't be putting in new kitchen cupboards for a year or so. The cupboards I have now are mismatched , some are dark stained and some are light. What can I do to make them look nice?
Thanks,
Answer:
Thank you for your Ask Jane question and welcome to the Be Jane community!
In regard to your question on how to make your mismatched cupboards "look nice", you have a few options. If they are flat and boring you can attach molding to the face of them either along the edge or place it an inch in. Whether or not you cut it at 90 degree angles or miter it at 45 degrees will depend on the look you are going for. When this is done right it makes your flat cupboards look like panels.
As for them matching, you can sand them all down and re-stain them with a new stain. If you don't feel comfortable with your staining abilities then you most certainly can paint them. Though we recommend that you first sand them down and prime them with an alcohol based primer before actually painting them.
Of course you can always change out the handles to give it an updated, new look. This is simple and can add a lot to any kitchen. Don't be afraid to drill new holes and put them in new places if you are redoing the cabinets. Wood filler will do wonders to cover up the old holes just use it before you stain or paint the cabinets.
We hope this helps. Let us know how it turns out.