DIY Antique Cupboards

Planning and Preparation

• Prepare the cupboards for the application of an antique finish by thoroughly cleaning to remove all grease and oils accumulated from cooking. Clean with a solution of TSP and very warm water. It is usually easier to do a more thorough cleaning job if all drawer and door pulls are removed first. Rinse the cupboard surfaces with clear water. Wipe the cupboards with either mineral spirits or paint thinner; use caution these products are flammable. Drawers are easier to work with if empty and stood on end.

Stain

• Stain mixed with a clear antiquing glaze works well on light-colored cupboards. The stain glaze mixture applies to the cupboard with a brush and wiped with lint-free rags to lighten some areas. For a naturally worn look, leave the stain concentrated around the area of knobs and bottom corners or any other areas that would be touched when opening and closing cupboard doors or drawers.

Distressing

• This process works best on painted cabinets. Sand the edges of doors and drawers, slightly rounding the edges. When the antiquing glaze is applied, these areas will be darker, giving the appearance of wear. Create a distressed look by flicking stain on to the cupboards. Use a small amount of stain on the brush, until you determine the look that suits.

Crackle Finish

• This is a two-step process and applied after the cupboards are cleaned and prepared. The first coat of this finish is applied to the cupboards and allowed to dry. The top coat of the crackle finish causes the bottom coat to fissure, showing different shades. The color combinations of this finish are a matter of personal taste.

Antiquing Glazes

• Oil-based antiquing stains and glazes dry slowly, allowing more time to work to achieve the antiqued appearance desired. Practice on a scrap piece of wood until you develop the technique and appearance you like.

  Acrylic-based antiquing glazes appear milky when brushed on, and dry quickly. Acrylic stains are removable with hot water.

  Other faux finish effects can be created by using a variety of applicators, such as rags, plastic bags and sponges.

  For long wear and easier care, coat the cupboards with two to three coats of clear urethane after applying antique glazes.