How to Darken Wooden Cabinets

Open the windows in the room where the cabinets are located. It is important to work in a well-ventilated area for safety reasons.

Remove the cabinet doors from their hinges and unscrew the hinges and other hardware. Set the hardware pieces aside and place the doors on a set of sawhorses or other solid surface.

Insert a piece of 80-grit sandpaper into your orbital sander. Remove all existing stain from the wood cabinets and doors with the sander. Wipe away the dust from the cabinets with a damp cloth.

Sand down the cabinets’ surfaces again, removing any remaining rough patches. Set the sander aside.

Lay a drop cloth on the counters underneath the cabinets. This protects the area from accidental spills and stains.

Mix the stain by shaking the can. Apply the stain using broad strokes with a paintbrush. Spread the stain evenly over the wood, moving in the direction of the grain. Wipe away any excess stain, and then allow the stain to completely dry. Apply a second coat if needed.