Unfinished Kitchen Cabinets Need Love, Too

by Kelly Richardson
Face Your Kitchen Columnist

The best thing about an unfinished kitchen cabinet is that it's a blank slate, ready for your personal touch. Here are some cost-effective and unique treatments you can apply to make your cabinets something you'll be proud of.The problem with homeowners who have unfinished kitchen cabinets is that, with so many choices, it's hard to get started. Most leave their cabinets unfinished simply because they have no idea where to begin. Turning your kitchen cabinets from unfinished to finished is not as difficult as you might think. Peruse home decorating magazines for ideas. Then, when you're ready to get started, ask a local contractor about these popular refacing ideas.

Unfinished Cabinet Treatments

• Stain. A high-quality stain can give your unfinished kitchen cabinet a deep, rich luster. Use a priming solution first, and then apply the stain in several coats.
• Paint. Colors are always welcome in an attractive kitchen. Unless you're an artist, you'll want a contractor to do the work for you. Think bright shades.
• Carving. Carving your kitchen cabinets holds so much promise. You can personalize your kitchen by including intricate lines and textures on cabinet doors.

Once you've completed your cabinet project, you'll probably want to move to other areas of your home that have cabinets. You'll have unfinished-cabinet fever!

Unfinished Cabinets Everywhere

• Pantry Room. You'd be surprised how a cabinet redesign in your pantry can encourage you to stay organized in this busy portion of the home.
• Bathroom. You can redo bathroom cabinets to extend your kitchen theme into other areas of the house.

The bottom line is an unfinished kitchen cabinet is an unhappy one. By refinishing kitchen cabinets, you can restore your home's positive aura.

About the Author
Kelly Richardson covers the home improvement scene in between his seasonal projects. His articles appear wherever intelligent interior design is valued.