How to Redo White Wash on Kitchen Cabinets

Whitewash is a natural way to give cabinets a rustic look. However, the whitewash will not last forever and needs reapplying to keep its color. Whitewash only works on real wood cabinets because man-made versions, like laminate, are not porous enough to accept the stain. If your cabinets aren't made from real wood, try using a specially designed paint that gives a whitewash type finish. You need to apply these types of paint over the appropriate primer.

Things You'll Need

• Lime
• Salt
• Alum
• Bucket
• Fine sandpaper
• Cloth
• Bristle paintbrush

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Mix together 12 cups lime, 4 cups salt, 2 tablespoons powdered alum and 2 gallons water in a large bucket. Let the mixture sit overnight.

   • 2

     Remove all the hardware on the kitchen cupboards including hinges and handles.

   • 3

     Sand the cabinets with fine sandpaper to get a smooth finish and prepare the surface for the whitewash.

   • 4

     Dampen a cloth and wipe down the cabinets to get rid of any dust.

   • 5

     Stir the white wash solution and paint it onto the cabinets using a wide bristle brush. Let it dry overnight before using.