Mission Style Kitchen Cabinets - Arts And Crafts Kitchen Decor

Mission style cabinets are popular and it is not hard to understand why. They match well with a variety of decorative schemes. Their qualities include clean, square or rectangular lines most commonly on door frames. They are made of medium to dark wood which adds to their beautiful effect. Many mission style cabinets include inlays. You can also find them designed with leaded-glass.

Mission Style Kitchen Cabinets - Arts And Crafts Kitchen Decor

The mission style started in the 20th century and has remained. It is often compared to the U.S. version of the British Arts & Crafts movement. After years of the mission style being known for its simplicity, and straight lines, art-deco used the style to come up with a sleeker look of its own.

Kitchen Cabinet Handles

Mission Style Kitchen Cabinets - Arts And Crafts Kitchen Decor

The mission style is still popular to this day. It is not only a design style found on kitchen cabinets. They can be found on tables, bookcases, and even beds. The mission style gives a warm and geometric look.

Mission Style Kitchen Cabinets - Arts And Crafts Kitchen Decor

Mission Style Kitchen Cabinets - Arts And Crafts Kitchen Decor

Even though it takes a lot of work to make this type of furniture you can do it too.

You will be able to construct pieces that are sturdy, and that will blend with other décor. Plans and blueprints can be purchased online. You do not have to have much experience with woodwork to create this style of furniture which includes kitchen cabinets.

If you decide you want mission style cabinets in your kitchen there is a few ways to get them. You can either make them, which not everyone can do. You can purchase the kind that are ready to assemble and than install them, or you can have them custom made and hire a contractor to create and install them.

As mentioned before, mission style cabinets can fit into just about any theme. They are known for their beauty with natural wood, but you can find them painted, or do it yourself. It depends on your taste and how you want the end result to look.

After adding mission style cabinets in your kitchen you might decide on adding a new kitchen table and chairs in the same style. There are many stores online that offer mission style furniture. You can also find them by visiting your local stores that carry furniture.

Adding mission style to your kitchen will give it a clean, modern feel. It is classy and beautiful. This style has been around for many years so you will not have to worry about updating the cabinets again. This would also be a great choice if you are going to be selling your home since this style is so versatile and popular.

This may just be the tip of the iceberg for you when it comes to mission style. Since every room could have furniture featuring it, you might need to think about updating your other rooms.

Mission Style Kitchen Cabinets - Arts And Crafts Kitchen Decor

Kitchen Cabinet Handles

Black Kitchen Cabinets

If you want your kitchen cabinet to stand out over the rest, you can try repainting them to the color of your choice. You can even paint your kitchen cabinet black to create a sophisticated look.

Black Kitchen Cabinets

Black Kitchen Cabinets

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Black Kitchen Cabinets

Black Kitchen Cabinets

Prior to painting cabinets, they should be properly prepared. Some mild sanding techniques are necessary when the wood finish or old paint is glossy and smooth. The surface should be rough so that the new paint will easily adhere to it. After sanding the cabinet surface, clean them with soap and water. After drying, painting tape should be applied to the edges of the cabinets, on the floor, counter tops, walls and other surfaces to prevent paint from getting into places where you don't want it to go.

Next, brush on the bonding primer a single brush. Two coats of primer are recommended, and allow at least four hours for the primer to dry.

After the primer has dried on both sides of the cabinet doors, you can start painting Paint using easy and steady strokes. You may apply two to three coats of paint with four hours drying time in between.

If you have lots of windows and your kitchen is large, black cabinets should work very well and will not darken the room at all. The look will be even more enhancing if your appliances and counter tops are a lighter color, and your floors are a light colored oak. Many cabinet manufacturers offer dozens of specialty finishes in black for maple cabinets. Some have websites where you can design your cabinets online to see what they will look like.

Black Kitchen Cabinets

DIY Kitchen Cabinets - 3 Small Budget Options For Your Kitchen Remodeling Project

A DIY kitchen cabinets project is not rocket science. It is a matter of being organised and having everything in place before getting started. With some good ideas and even little budget, you can give your kitchen the look you want.

DIY Kitchen Cabinets - 3 Small Budget Options For Your Kitchen Remodeling Project

DIY Kitchen Cabinets - 3 Small Budget Options For Your Kitchen Remodeling Project

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DIY Kitchen Cabinets - 3 Small Budget Options For Your Kitchen Remodeling Project

DIY Kitchen Cabinets - 3 Small Budget Options For Your Kitchen Remodeling Project

Give the Cabinet Doors a Makeover

Even with a small budget or no budget at all, with a little bit of work you can turn some old, ugly cabinet doors into something amazing. There is a good trick for painted cabinets: have you ever wonder what is under all these layers of paint? Remove the cabinet doors, the hardware and empty the content. Use an electric sander and sand off all the paint off the doors and the frames.

You may find some beautiful wood under that paint. Get some small sticks of pine and cut them to form a rectangle to be glued on the outside of the cabinet door. This will dramatically change the look of the cabinet doors. Then you can apply several coats of lacquer or a wood dye for a natural look.

Playing With Paint

It may be possible that the wood under the paint does not look good enough to be exposed.Then there is an other inexpensive option to solve this problem. To give the doors an even more antique look, paint the doors the color you want and sand the paint off but leave some color in the fiber of the wood.

Make sure you run the sander in the same way that the wood fiber, from up to down, not right to left. Then you can also apply a lacquer to shine them up and protect them. Add some new hardware and door handles and you got something very unique.

Replacing the Cabinet Doors

If the old cabinet doors cannot be recycled, then you can just replace them while keeping the cabinetry as is. There are a lot of places to find inexpensive wood that can really make great cabinets. First get a good set of plans to help you figure out what you want and what you need. Then get to the step by step instructions and follow the blueprint.

Make sure you got the right measurements before you cut to avoid any wood to be wasted. Plans can give you a lot of simple ideas that do not required expensive tools to make designs on the cabinet doors. Then it will be up to you to paint, dye or apply lacquer to them. Remember not to leave your cabinet doors in plain wood to avoid water, food and finger stains on them.

DIY Kitchen Cabinets - 3 Small Budget Options For Your Kitchen Remodeling Project

Choosing Kitchen Cabinet Knobs

The kitchen cabinet knob can be considered by many as the focal point of the design of the kitchen cabinet. This is because the kitchen cabinet knob is often seen as the accessory. It is used to express what the craftsman could not express using the other parts of the kitchen cabinet.

Choosing Kitchen Cabinet Knobs

Choosing Kitchen Cabinet Knobs

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Choosing Kitchen Cabinet Knobs

Choosing Kitchen Cabinet Knobs

Just as choosing the right earring or bag is important to completing a woman's look, it is also very important to select the right kitchen cabinet knob to complete the look of the furnishing. Here are some tips which you should follow:

1. Decide whether to contrast or go along with a scheme

It cannot be helped, the kitchen cabinet knob design will inevitably be associated with the look of the entire kitchen cabinet.

With this in mind, you have two options to go with: you could choose to go with an existing scheme used in designing the kitchen cabinet knob or you could choose to contrast and add a hint of irony to the whole furnishing.

2. Decide on the material

Technology today offers people a lot of alternatives to the old boring brass knob. The type of material used in the construction of the kitchen cabinet knob is actually crucial to a lot of different factors.

One of the biggest factors affected by the material of the kitchen cabinet knob is the appearance. Various types of materials are specifically chosen in order to make sure that the kitchen cabinet knob design stands out. A common practice today is to combine different materials in order to achieve a design that's quite unique.

3. Symbolism

Not a few people have become interested in the interpretation of symbols during these past few years. People now understand the fact that there's more to picking a kitchen cabinet knob design than visual appeal.

The symbolism of the kitchen cabinet knob allows a person to express messages which are far deeper than what the eyes can perceive. Unlike doorknobs, kitchen cabinet knobs do not tend to look ridiculous when they come in different shapes.

The fact is that people need to stop thinking of kitchen cabinet knobs as merely knobs. They should see the kitchen cabinet knob as an accessory that completes the whole look of the furnishing. It may be quite small, but it makes the whole design work.

Choosing Kitchen Cabinet Knobs

How To Antique Your Kitchen Cabinets

If you need new cabinets but can't afford them, you might try some do it yourself antiquing. Antiquing your kitchen cabinets can revitalize old tired cabinetry and add warmth and character to the room. Antiqued cabinets go with a wide range of decorating styles, from country, to Victorian to Tuscan to French.

How To Antique Your Kitchen Cabinets

How To Antique Your Kitchen Cabinets

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How To Antique Your Kitchen Cabinets

How To Antique Your Kitchen Cabinets

Antiqued cabinets will give your kitchen a warm lived in look as well as make the room feel more relaxed and comfortable. There are 2 basic methods you can use to antique your kitchen cabinets - staining and distressing. You can use them alone, or combine them for some old world charm in your kitchen

Antiquing Your Cabinets With Stain

This method of antiquing kitchen cabinets works best on cabinets that are painted a light color or have a light stain.
You will need some dark stain, a brush or sponge and lots of paper towels. Achieving an antique look is easy but you might want to try it in an area that isn't so noticeable or practice on something else until you get the hang of it and develop a technique.

To antique stain your cabinets, simply apply a light layer of the stain on one section of the cabinet and wipe off to the desired level of "antiqueness". Repeat all along the cabinet until you are done! You'll want to make it look natural, so concentrate more stain on the areas that would get the most wear like around the edges and handles.

Distressing Your Kitchen Cabinest

This method of antiquing kitchen cabinets works only on painted cabinets. It is called distressing because it simulates the wear that an old piece of cabinetry would endure after hundreds of years of use. Some people use chains and hammers when distressing furniture, but I think a little bit of sandpaper is enough for cabinets.

The object is to sand off the finish on the edges and worn areas. Therefore, you would take a medium grit paper and sand at the door and drawer edges to reveal just a thin layer of the wood underneath. It looks best when the color underneath is a bit darker or if the cabinets are dark then it looks best if the color revealed is lighter. Personally, I prefer to stick to the edges, but you can sand a bit off in the middle if you want an overall worn look.

Some other methods of antiquing kitchen cabinets include crackle painting and faux painting.

Crackle painting is done with 2 types of paint - the bottom layer is painted on and the crackle medium is brushed on top which causes the layer underneath to crackle. I have tried this method many times and have never been really satisfied with the results. If you really like this look, I suggest you practice, practice, practice on something else before you attempt to crackle your cabinets.

Faux painting can be a very nice way of antiquing your cabinets. You can probably find a local artist that will do
this for a reasonable price - they can add depth to the cabinet as well as some nice artistry!

Other ways to add interest to your cabinets include changing the knobs and hardware and adding
molding, legs and trimwork.

How To Antique Your Kitchen Cabinets

Cleaning Wood Kitchen Cabinets

Cleaning wood kitchen cabinets is really as easy as 1.2 .3. It is definitely not as difficult as some lead you to believe, it just takes some time and a little elbow grease.

Cleaning Wood Kitchen Cabinets

Cleaning Wood Kitchen Cabinets

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Cleaning Wood Kitchen Cabinets

Cleaning Wood Kitchen Cabinets

Don't fall for the idea that "you need special cleaners" or "secret" solutions to clean your kitchen cabinets.

Cleaning your kitchen cabinets also rarely depends on the type of finish that is on your cabinets -really.

Cleaning kitchen cabinets only becomes difficult when your finish is actually cracked and damaged to the point water can easily seep through the finish. If your finish is bad, you're looking at refinishing, not just cleaning.

How do your cabinets get damaged in the firstplace?

Light, oxidation (simply being exposed to oxygen), and physical use and abuse damage wood finishes. You can't do anything about oxidation, and very little about light (except for keeping lights off and not having many windows, but who wants that?), but you can limit the abuse and clean your cabinets when they get dirty. This helps keep your finish in good shape.

Common finishes found on kitchen cabinets include:

Conversion Finishes: Catalyzed lacquer, pre-catalyzed lacquer, conversion varnish, epoxy finish, moisture-curing polyurethane, two-part polyurethane, polyester finish, and ultraviolet-curing finish

Lacquer or Moisture Resistant Lacquer

Polyurethane

Varnish

Shellac

Today, mostoften your cabinet finishes will be a conversion or lacquer finish. Conversion finishes are what the cabinet industry uses, both built-in and custom built factory. They are fast drying, durable, moisture resistant, and somewhat heat resistant (although candles close to the cabinets -within even 18 inches for prolonged periods of time have been known to scorch the finish). They have been around since the 1930 's. When it comes to cleaning wood kitchen cabinets, these are easy to keep clean.

Actually, you can clean all of the above finishes that may be on wood kitchen cabinets by just using a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Gently wash your cabinets, being sure not to leave any water standing on any woodsurface.

It's that simple. If your cabinets are getting a bit "dull" looking to you, you can put a lemon oil on them if you wish, however, keep in mind that if you do put a lemon oil on the finish and your cabinets ever need to be refinished, that might cause a problem in the refinishing because oil will be on the surface of the wood (and cause "fish-eye" as you try to put new finish on).

Other things to keep in mind:

Lacquer and conversion finishes dry fast, but they don't cure for almost six months. Never put lemon oil on your finish before its six months old. Cleaning wood kitchen cabinets at this stage means to only wipe down with soap and water.

It's a good idea to clean your cabinets with a good furniture polishin between times you actually wash with soap and water. Too much water can, over time, damage your finish, especially if it's not wiped up quickly.

Use a mild soap, like Dawn dishwashing liquid (it cuts grease well) or Ivory or a similar dish soap.

Murphy's Oil Soap is also a good cleaner for your kitchen cabinets. It is gentle enough to use on wood. It is made with oil and lye, which, when mixed, result in a chemical reaction to make the soap. No oil or lye is left in the finished product, so you don't have to worry about getting any oil on your cabinet finish (making any future refinishing easier).

True "oil" finishes, such as linseed oil, tung oil or walnut oil, are rarely found on kitchen cabinets. You keep these types offinishes looking nice by reapplying the oil (actually you can use any oil, it does not necessarily have to be the same oil that was originally used) These types of cabinets may be found in antique furniture, or made by someone who was trying to get back to an "original" way of manufacturing furniture or cabinetry.

In today's cabinets, the only piece of wood that will have an actual oil finish is the bread board. Make sure you wash your bread board as needed, let it dry thoroughly, then reapply to non-toxic vegetable oil to the surface. You need to let the oil soak in, and may need to reapply and rub it in 2 or 3 times.

And remember-Have a Happy Kitchen!

Cleaning Wood Kitchen Cabinets

Building Cabinets to Hide a Washer and Dryer

Cabinets can be a great way to disguise a washer and dryer. While this technique can certainly be used in a laundry room, it can be especially useful when you don't have a dedicated laundry. For example, if you keep your washer and dryer in a spare bathroom or an area adjoining the kitchen, cabinets can help blend the laundry appliances in with the surrounding area. You can build cabinets for any style of washer and dryer, although the technique works best with front-loading machines. You'll need some basic construction and wood-working skills to make your own cabinets. If you're not able to make them yourself, you could consider hiring a carpenter to make them for you.

Building Cabinets to Hide a Washer and Dryer

Building Cabinets to Hide a Washer and Dryer

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Building Cabinets to Hide a Washer and Dryer

Building Cabinets to Hide a Washer and Dryer

Planning the Cabinets
First, measure the overalldimensions of the washer and dryer. You'll want to allow at least four extra inches of width, as well as at least eight extra inches of depth. Make sure to allow enough space between the washer and dryer and the back wall. You should also allow a couple of extra inches of height. Using graph paper to sketch the dimensions can help you plan the pieces you'll need. If you have a stacked washer and dryer set, design your cabinets to cover both of them, with one large door that can be opened to reveal the front of both. For a side-by-side front loading washer and dryer set, two separate doors work best. If you have a top-loading washer, you can still build cabinets, but you'll need to design them so that the top countertop is hinged, at least over the washer.

Build theFraming
Building a cabinet frame with 2 x 4 framing lumber is the first step. Using your finished dimensions as a guide, create a frame that will accommodate the washer and dryer, using screw fasteners. If the countertop surface needs to lift up, create a separate frame for it. You'll also need frames for the front doors. Use thinner lumber to frame the doors and top, to make them lightweight and easy to use.

Adding the Cabinet Walls
Once the frame has been constructed, cut 3/4 inch plywood to cover each side of the frame. Screws are the best fasteners to use, because they provide greater strength. However, screws should be countersunk and covered to create a neat exterior appearance. When constructing the top lid, using a laminate surface on the top willcreate a useful countertop area. Attach the doors using hinge hardware. When designing a top countertop lid for a top-loading washer, design it in a way that will allow it to be fastened against the back wall when in the open position, to prevent it from falling down while in use. Keep the lid as light as possible to make it easy to open and close.

Finishing Touches
These cabinets can be either stained and varnished or painted if desired. A gloss or semi-gloss enamel paint in a light shade will make the cabinets bright, cheerful and very durable. If using stain and varnish, be sure to use a water-resistant product, such as an interior polyurethane varnish. Let dry, add door handles, and enjoy your newly disguised washer and dryer.

Building Cabinets to Hide a Washer and Dryer

How To Stain Kitchen Cabinets

Staining kitchen cabinets, and how you prepare to stain depends on what you are starting with.

How To Stain Kitchen Cabinets

How To Stain Kitchen Cabinets

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How To Stain Kitchen Cabinets

How To Stain Kitchen Cabinets

Are you building your own cabinets? Are your cabinets unfinished in your garage waiting to be installed? Are your cabinets new and already installed, but in need of staining? Are you stripping your cabinets and then re-staining and refinishing them? Or are you going to try your hand at re-facing?

You will prepare and stain a bit differently for each of the above situations; however, there are some basic steps and supplies that are universal when you are staining kitchen cabinets.

List of Basic Supplies You Will Need:

a good stain (I like a good oil-based stain, likeAt Sherwin-Williams oil based wiping stain) stirring stick sand paper (150 to 320 grit) saw horses or work bench to stain on drop clothes/cardboard cotton rags carpet pieces or other tool to apply stain (the right carpet really works well to get into nooks and crannies those) clothes/shoes you don't mind getting dirty (the stain won't come out-it's a good idea to invest in a body apron that you don't mind getting ruined) dust mask/respirator face mask latex or rubber gloves lacquer thinner or acetone (to remove stain off of where you don't want it-like hinges or the floor; if you don't have these, you can use finger nail polish remover, most contain acetone) well ventilated area to work in area to set wood to dry
Step# 1-Remove Doors, Drawers, Hardware and Lay Flat

If you are building your own cabinets, staining them is simply a step in the building process. You can stain everything, and put finish on it too, before you ever put anything together.

If your cabinets are pre-built, try to remove as much hardware as possible (handles and hinges). It is much easier to put the hardware back on than to try and clean it later. If you can take the hardware off, number each piece, then also put that same number on the wood where the hardware sits-making sure it is inconspicuous.

You should also remove the doors and drawer fronts before you begin staining kitchen cabinets, if you can, so you can lay them flat. Again, if you remove hinges, etc.,do so and number so it won't show on your finished product.

The advantage of having an item lying flat while you are staining kitchen cabinets is that the stain and finish won't run all over and create a look you don't want-sloppy. Who wants to put a lot of work, time, and effort into staining kitchen cabinets, just to see the finished product look sloppy and completely unprofessional? Learning how to stain kitchen cabinets means ending up with a stain job that looks beautiful and professional and says to the world that you know what you're doing. You want your cabinets to look like you paid a fortune, even if you didn't.

Step # 2-Look Your Pieces Over and Sand If Necessary

When first stainingkitchen cabinets>, look over the pieces you want to stain. Do they need to be sanded first? Most likely they are already sanded well, and you'll just have to sand out small scuff marks which resulted from handling them or installing the cabinets.

Use a fine grit sandpaper, 150, 220, or even higher. Once you begin staining kitchen cabinets, any marks you've missed in sanding will jump out at you. You can always sand marks and scuffs out after you've stained your kitchen cabinets, but that takes more time and energy, so try to do a good job of sanding initially.

Step # 3-Setting Up The Area Where You Will Be Staining Kitchen Cabinets -Remember Safety First!

It is a good idea to stain items onsaw horses if you have them, or on any sturdy table or bench that is about waist high. As you learn how to stain kitchen cabinets, you will be glad you used a drop cloth or cardboard on your floor or on any area that you don't want stain on. You can use lacquer thinner or acetone to wipe up stains, but it doesn't always work (like you can almost never get the stain out of clothes). Also, lacquer thinner or acetone might melt or ruin what the stain is sitting on. If you don't have lacquer thinner or acetone, use finger nail polish remover. It has acetone in it. Don't inhale the fumes of such products, or get them on your hands.

You'll also need to mask off any parts of the cabinets you don't want stained, such as the interiors.

Wear clothes and shoesyou don't mind getting dirty, and/or a full body apron.

You should also wear latex or rubber gloves and safety glasses when you are staining kitchen cabinets. These precautions are not only for when you are learning how to stain your kitchen cabinets, but are necessary even if you become an expert. Safely is of the utmost importance.

ALERT: BEWARE OF DANGEROUS FUMES. Wearing a dust mask won't do any good against fumes. Only wear a dust mask if you are in the sanding process. You will either have to invest in a respirator face mask for your safety, or ensure that you are in an extremely well ventilated area, such as your garage with doors wide open, or both. Fumes from the chemicals used while you are staining your kitchen > cabinets are extremely dangerous, not only to breathe in, but, if concentrated enough, they can cause an explosion. And, don't be fooled by water-based products. They can give off hazardous fumes and odors as well. Each product's danger level is different, but error on the side of caution. Knowing how to stain kitchencabinets means knowing how to do it safely.

Step # 4-Applying The Stain

Once you know where you are going to be staining kitchen cabinets, and have yourself and your workspace prepared, open your stain can and stir well. This cannot be overstated enough. When the can sits for any length of time, the stain will separate and sediment (color) will sit at the bottom of the can. If you do not stir well, the stain you usefrom the top of the can will be much lighter than the stain you end up using at the bottom of the can (and at the end of your project). These results will not look good. The things you stain first will be much lighter than the last pieces you stain.

To apply the stain, one of the easiest tools to use are old carpet remnants. Cut them into approximately 4 x 3 inch rectangles. Dip one end of the carpet into your stain, then rub the carpet onto your wood. It doesn't matter if you go with the grain or against the grain at this point, you just want to make sure that you cover all surfaces. If you are doing intricate work, such as doors with groves or raised panels, be sure to get stain into corners. Over staining at this point is a good idea, because the excess will be wiped off.This is where the drop clothes and wearing an apron in handy, because it can get pretty messy!

After you apply stain to your piece, look it over to make sure you didn't miss any spots. Areas that are commonly missed in learning how to stain your kitchen cabinets include: grooves, door, drawer edges, edges or any corners-like where the raised panel corners meet the door frame.

Step # 5-Wiping The Stain Off-A Very Important Multi-Step In Ensuring Your Piece Looks Great

As you are first learning about staining kitchen cabinets, I suggest you wipe the stain off immediately. Most cans of stain suggest leaving the stain sit for 10 minutes, then wiping off the excess. I've found that this does not usually change the color,so why wait? Also, if you are staining kitchen cabinets that are already installed, or already built-in, and you can't lay pieces flat, your stain will run all over if you let it sit for any length of time. You will want to wipe it up as soon as possible.

If you want a darker piece of wood, purchase a darker stain color. The only time that waiting to wipe excess stain off your piece will actually darken significantly is if you can let it sit for over 30 minutes. This is really a false darkening, and the problem with it is that your stain is usually dry by then I know that it's difficult to remove smudges and wipe off the piece properly. The stain ends up sitting on top of the wood, not soaking in. Use your own judgment. If you decide to wait the 10 minutes, do it onevery piece to ensure consistency.

Actually wiping the excess stain off in itself is a two step process.

First, have several cotton rags at your disposal. Put a rag in each hand. Never touch your wood with bare or gloved hands alone after it's been stained, as it will leave a smudge mark. Wipe off the bulk of the excess stain. At this point it doesn't matter if you are going with the grain or not, you just want to get the big spots of stain wiped up.

The second step is to finishing type step in staining kitchen cabinets. Take another clean rag. Go back over your piece of wood, this time with the grain. The second rag takes more stain off, preventing smudge marks. The biggest enemy in staining is leaving smudge marks.

Following these two stepsand not being afraid to use rags as needed will ensure that you don't leave any smudges. Look your piece over. If you have left any smudges, wipe off gently and blend color in with your cotton rag.

Step # 6-The Final Step In Staining-Set Your Pieces Aside To Dry

Now that you've learned how to stain kitchen cabinets, set your pieces aside to dry (or just let them hang there if they are already installed). You can lay your piece on a flat surface if only one side is stained. If your piece has multiple sides that are stained, you can lay it flat on something that allows for air circulation to the back, such as saw horses, or if you do enough staining, purchase a professional staining rack. One caveat: where the saw horses or touch the rackstained piece, smudge marks may be left. Before you finish a piece that has dried on such equipment, you may need to touch up that side.

You can also lean your piece against a wall to dry. When your stain is drying, it is best to let air get to as many sides that you have stained as possible. It's also okay to let fans run in the area where you are drying your piece. This helps it to dry faster and doesn't hurt the end result; however, never let fans run on to a piece that you've put finish on.

How long your piece has to dry depends on what type of stain you are using. Read the label and act accordingly.

ONE FINAL AND IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT SAFETY AS YOU LEARN HOW TO STAIN KITCHEN CABINETS

Remember to hang your rags to dry, ensuring air movementaround them as well. Too many times, bunched together wet staining rags have caused a tragic explosion resulting in fire and even death. Please be careful!!

You Are Now Ready For The Next Step-Finishing

Congratulations!!! You have learned how to stain kitchen cabinets and have completed your staining project!

After your pieces are completely dry, you are ready for the next step-putting a beautiful, clear finish on your beautifully stained kitchen cabinets!

And remember-HAVE A HAPPY KITCHEN!!!

How To Stain Kitchen Cabinets

Tips For Choosing Kitchen Cabinets and Countertops

The kitchen is one of the more important parts of a household. This is where families gather to cook sumptuous meals and share, celebrate milestones and simply to bond with each other. Any homeowner would love to have the best tools and equipment in the kitchen, and it all starts with the best cabinets and countertops. Cabinets and countertops not only make a kitchen look stylish, it can also hold various number and sizes of kitchen tools and utensils.

Tips For Choosing Kitchen Cabinets and Countertops

Tips For Choosing Kitchen Cabinets and Countertops

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Tips For Choosing Kitchen Cabinets and Countertops

Tips For Choosing Kitchen Cabinets and Countertops

There are various tips for choosing kitchen cabinets and countertops that every homeowner should learn. First, in selecting kitchen cabinets and countertops, one should have an idea on the space required to store various kitchen tools andutensils. The sizes of the kitchen cabinets and countertops should be determined first before going to the nearest home depot. For small kitchens, tall cabinets may be required to maximize space as much as possible.

Kitchen cabinets

Usually, kitchen wall cabinets have various sizes ranging from 24 inches in depth and 35 inches in height, with width starting at 12 inches and higher. Since there are numerous sizes of kitchen cabinets, homeowners have greater flexibility on how the cabinets would be placed in their kitchen.

Those who are not able to find the right size of kitchen cabinet, an alternative is to have it customized. This is the best way to get the right> cabinet dimensions, although this can cost more than regular-sized cabinets.

Of course, in choosing kitchen cabinets and countertops, one should also set aside a certain budget. Those who have plenty to spare for their kitchen cabinets and countertops may go for more expensive yet durable and stylishly designed models. Homeowners you have constricted with their budget can settle for modification of their old cabinets and countertops.

Countertops

Among granite countertops, is considered as the top choice of homeowners. Granite comes in numerous colors like black, white, coral, beige, and green. It is also available in a polished finish that provides a shiny look to the kitchen. The costs of this material can depend onthe color, style, and the place where the stone was imported.

Aside from granite, natural stone are popular materials for counterparts such as limestone, marble and soapstone. These materials are softer compared to granite and thus should be used with utmost care. Concrete countertops are also getting more popular since it comes in various finishes like grounded, smooth, and pressed. Wood countertops, on the other hand, are also highly preferred because they are easy to clean while scratches may be sanded out.

For those who cannot decide on one material for countertops may mix and match surfaces. This is particularly helpful in differentiating space and assigning a countertop for a specific task. For instance, most households use butcher block chopping whilemarble countertops are usually for baking.

Before making any decision on what material suits best for a countertop, homeowners should see the surface first in person by visiting a showroom or seeing samples in-home.

Tips For Choosing Kitchen Cabinets and Countertops

How to Build a Kitchen Cabinet

Kitchen cabinets are the most important element in the kitchen. Having the best kitchen cabinet can easily pull the look of your kitchen since it takes up most of the space in the kitchen. Picking out a ready-made kitchen cabinet can be the easiest thing to do, but also the most expensive. Why not build your own kitchen cabinets? Here are easy steps on how to build kitchen cabinets.

How to Build a Kitchen Cabinet

How to Build a Kitchen Cabinet

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How to Build a Kitchen Cabinet

How to Build a Kitchen Cabinet

The most important thing to do is to analyze your kitchen's look. You need to plan out and think of the best kitchen cabinet design suited for your kitchen. Draw designs which you think will best fit your interest. You may also search designs on the internet orany home improvement books available.

After finding the best design, measure your kitchen. This will help you know the dimensions of the kitchen cabinet that you are going to build. You will more or less be able to estimate the size of the wool that you will use.

The next thing to do is to go wood shopping! You need to choose the kind of wood that you will use. Visit wood shops that sell plywood or other materials that can be used to build your dream cabinet. You can also ask if you can look at how different wood would finish after construction. When you have chosen the wood, you may show them your design and ask if they can estimate the price of the wood that you will use.

After the wood selection has been done, you need to buy otherparts such as knobs, screws and hinges. They need to compliment the wood you are using for the cabinet.

Here comes the real deal in learning how to build kitchen cabinets, actually building the cabinets.

You need to gather all the materials that you need for building. These include the table saw, jig saw, router, doweling jig, clamps, shaper, orbital sander and other tools you may find necessary to use. Make sure that all of your materials are neatly placed in the area so that they would be easily located when needed for use. Make sure that the blades are sharp to ensure ease of use lessening risk for accidents.

Wear proper protective gear, such as goggles when sanding, chiselling, hammering overhead or scraping. Ear protection canalso be used since some tools can damage hearing, working on a loud noise level. Gloves are recommended since wood can cause major splinters and the equipment can cause damage since these are sharp tools.

You may choose to paint your cabinets to make it look more beautiful. Just choose the right colors and make sure to properly paint the cabinet to make it look better.

Follow your step-by-step plan on how to build kitchen cabinets to make sure that your construction is running a smooth course. A well-planned construction reduces accidents from happening too.

How to Build a Kitchen Cabinet

Paint Color Ideas For Kitchen Cabinets and Walls

The right paint colors for both the kitchen cabinets and walls can save you from a costly remodel. It can change the way that you look at your room and might even inspire you to go to a cooking class. Painting isn't expensive but it does take a lot of time and effort to paint kitchen cabinets so make sure that you get the color right the first time.

Paint Color Ideas For Kitchen Cabinets and Walls

Paint Color Ideas For Kitchen Cabinets and Walls

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Paint Color Ideas For Kitchen Cabinets and Walls

Paint Color Ideas For Kitchen Cabinets and Walls

Pickling or whitewashing is one of the softer kitchen color paint ideas. You might want to use this technique for a country or distressed look. You can apply the paint or glaze lightly onto the cabinets and then rub most of it off. This will tone down harsh wood colors or change the shade completely. This is a more subtle effect then staining; in fact it bridges the worlds between stain and paint because then you can still see the wood grain. You can even try this effect on paneling or beams to update your kitchen while going for a timeless look. You can contrast this with sleek wood floors as a play on the different tones of wood. This means that your focal point will be natural and subtle but still gets its point across.

Neutral colors for kitchen cabinets are popular because the color is enduring. You may tire of blue in a few years, but you'll be able to live with white cabinets for decades. This doesn't mean that your kitchen has to be a "plain Jane" or boring. You can also add stone on the floor or use it as a backsplash. Granite countertops will give your room subtle pattern and elegance. You can always paint the kitchen island at differentcolor for dramatic effect. This might mean a barn red for a country kitchen or a distressed black for a neutral accent that still gets attention.

Your colors for kitchen cabinets can still be interesting. Some wood tones have a lot of orange, red and yellow in them. You might be able to get away with a bank of yellow subtle cabinets if the paint has mostly brown in it. Then you can pair this with taupe walls that will match stone countertops and wood floors that will also create interesting layers throughout the space while adding a cheerful touch.

If you are going to replace your cabinets in the near future you can afford to be daring. It's worth a last ditch effort to save money and also gives you a chance to experiment. Try a sage green if your granite hassubtle green flecks in it. You can also go with a more dramatic olive paint if your kitchen gets a lot of light or you want an Italian or Spanish flair.

Before you spend tens of thousands of dollars remodeling your kitchen completely see what a little paint can do. You can add interest to cabinets with drawer pulls and elaborate molding before you paint. If you want a modern look then just try removing molding and taking down cuts outs, or frosting glass inserts. Kitchen cabinet ideas save you money while giving you a unique look.

Paint Color Ideas For Kitchen Cabinets and Walls

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Cabinet Hardware - It is an Important Part When Refinishing Your Kitchen Cabinetry

You and your spouse decided that it is time to revamp the look of your kitchen. So, you picked out new paint colors for the walls and decided to change up the look of your cabinetry with a refinishing project.

Cabinet Hardware - It is an Important Part When Refinishing Your Kitchen Cabinetry

Cabinet Hardware - It is an Important Part When Refinishing Your Kitchen Cabinetry

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Cabinet Hardware - It is an Important Part When Refinishing Your Kitchen Cabinetry

Cabinet Hardware - It is an Important Part When Refinishing Your Kitchen Cabinetry

Now, before you do anything else, you should really pick out new cabinet hardware for your cabinetry.

Why is this such an important thing to do? Well, it is because cabinet hardware can actually make or break the new look that you are going for. Really, it can because if you just put the old stuff back on your cabinetry, then what was the point of changing up the look of everything, right? And, what if it actually clashes with new decorative theme that you are going for? That would be even worse because then things are going to look all miss-matched and awkward.

So, get new cabinet hardware for your cabinetry if you are redecorating and there are a slew of different style options to pick from so you can easily get what you need. For example, maybe you want your space to have a very modern type feel with sleek, clean lines. Well, there are options that will nicely match that. Or, if you are going with a more antique type appearance in your space, that is an option as well with selections that are very elegant. In addition to those, there are more style choices to pick from too including traditional, art deco, colonial, contemporary, and there are even themed options like knobs that are in the shape of forks or knives.

And speaking of knobs, those are just one of the cabinet hardware selections that you will need for your cabinetry. You will also need new drawer pulls, hinges, and drawer slides when replacing what is already on your cabinetry because if you do not replace everything that can be seen, then again you are going to end up with a weird mismatched look. If you have a towel rack on the wall, it would also be a good idea to replace that too with the same kind of style choice that you picked for the rest of the cabinet hardware that you choose to go with. If you specifically cannot find a towel rack, you could always rely on a larger, longer appliance handle as a nice alternative in its place. Really, they are not just reserved for appliances.

For a convenient way to look into all the cabinet hardware that is available, the thing to do is to hit the Internet for some online shopping. It is an extremely stress free way to check out all the choices since you do not have to drive anywhere to do it and just need to sit at your computer and browse a little instead. What you purchase will be delivered right to you too, so no wasting gas or time on a trip to the store.

Ultimately, cabinet hardware is just something that you need to replace if you decide to refinish your cabinetry when redecorating your kitchen.

Cabinet Hardware - It is an Important Part When Refinishing Your Kitchen Cabinetry