Restaining vs. Repainting Old Cupboards

Wood Stripping

• If the cupboards are already stained, restaining them is a relatively easy task. However, if dealing with an antique cupboard, consult a professional. Stripping off the patina dramatically lessens the value of furniture. Begin by stripping the old stain off with a chemical wood stripper, available at any home supply store. If possible, remove cupboard doors before stripping, as it's easier to use the wood stripper on doors on a flat surface. You may also want to take the doors or any removable parts of the cupboard outside to apply the wood stripper, as the product has a strong, noxious odor.

Restaining

• Use either an oil or water-based stain. While oil-based stains do not raise the wood grain while penetrating, they smell very strong and necessitate clean-up with mineral spirit solvents. Darken the stain with multiple applications. The more ecologically friendly water based stains only need water and soap for clean-up. However, these stains can raise the wood grain unless the cupboard is first lightly dampened, allowed to completely dry, sanded with a fine sandpaper and the entire process repeated before staining. When you finish staining, let the cupboard dry for six to eight hours, then apply polyurethane as a stain sealant. The layer of polyurethane also adds a glossy finish to the cupboard.

Repainting

• Repainting requires more work than restaining. Kitchen cupboards especially require thorough degreasing and degriming before work begins. Prior to painting, remove all hinges and handles on the cupboard as well as the cupboard doors. Place drop cloths around your work area. Fill in any small damaged areas on the cupboard, such as dents and holes. While the entire surface must be sanded, use medium sandpaper to take care of scratches and fine sandpaper for the finishing. Start with primer on the entire cupboard, using two coats for any rough surfaces. When painting, complete the inside of the cupboard before starting to paint the outside. According to This Old House, prevent drips on outside edges by pulling the brush toward them. Wipe up any drip on a dry area at once, especially if using an oil-based paint.

Other Tips

• Replacing the handles or pulls on cupboards also improves a piece's appearance. Of course, you don't want to replace original hardware on antiques, but for less valuable cupboards new hardware, including hinges, can brighten its look. If using the same hardware, paint or stain wooden pulls. You may want to paint such pulls a different color to accent the cupboard. You should also polish any metal hardware before replacing it on the cupboard.