How To Repurpose Kitchen Cabinets: Creative Makeovers

Yes, you can absolutely repurpose kitchen cabinets! Giving your old kitchen cabinets a second life through creative makeovers is a fantastic way to save money, reduce waste, and add unique character to your home. Can you transform them into something completely new? Absolutely! This guide is packed with DIY cabinet makeover ideas, cabinet upcycling ideas, and cabinet storage solutions to help you achieve a stunning kitchen cabinet transformation.

Repurposing old cabinets isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about smart, sustainable living. Instead of sending perfectly good cabinets to the landfill, consider the incredible potential they hold for a kitchen cabinet transformation. From a simple cabinet refinishing techniques to more involved cabinet remodeling projects, there’s a method to suit every skill level and vision. Let’s dive into how you can breathe new life into these kitchen workhorses and discover some creative cabinet uses.

How To Repurpose Kitchen Cabinets
Image Source: stowandtellu.com

Why Repurpose Kitchen Cabinets?

There are many compelling reasons to give your old cabinets a second life.

Environmental Benefits

Reduces Waste: Landfills are overflowing. Repurposing cabinets keeps them out of the waste stream, a win for the planet.
Conserves Resources: Manufacturing new cabinets requires raw materials, energy, and water. Repurposing minimizes the need for these.

Financial Savings

Cost-Effective: Buying new cabinets can be very expensive. A DIY cabinet makeover is a fraction of the cost.
Adds Value: A well-executed cabinet transformation can increase your home’s appeal and value.

Uniqueness and Personalization

One-of-a-Kind Style: You can create a look that is truly yours, something you won’t find in any store.
Customization: Tailor the cabinets to fit your specific needs and aesthetic perfectly.

Planning Your Kitchen Cabinet Transformation

Before you grab a paintbrush, a little planning goes a long way for a successful DIY cabinet makeover.

Assess Your Current Cabinets

Take a good look at what you have.

Material: Are they solid wood, laminate, or particleboard? Solid wood offers the most flexibility for refinishing and repurposing.
Condition: Are there signs of significant damage, rot, or warping? Minor wear and tear can often be repaired.
Construction: Are they well-built? Good construction is key for a lasting transformation.

Define Your Vision

What do you want your repurposed cabinets to look like or become?

New Location: Will they stay in the kitchen, or move to the garage, laundry room, or even outdoors (with proper sealing)?
New Function: Beyond storage, can they become a desk, a potting bench, or a display unit?
Style: Modern, rustic, farmhouse, or eclectic? This will guide your material and finish choices.

Gather Your Tools and Supplies

This will depend on your chosen method, but common items include:

Screwdriver set
Putty knife
Sandpaper (various grits)
Primer
Paint or stain
Brushes and rollers
Wood filler
Cleaning supplies
Safety gear (gloves, mask, eye protection)

Popular DIY Cabinet Makeover Techniques

Let’s explore some of the most popular and effective ways to give your cabinets a new look.

1. Cabinet Refinishing Techniques: A Fresh Coat

This is perhaps the most common and accessible way to update cabinets.

Painting Cabinets

Painting offers a complete visual overhaul.

Preparation is Key

Remove Doors and Drawers: Work on a flat surface.
Clean Thoroughly: Use a degreaser to remove grease and grime.
Light Sanding: This helps the primer and paint adhere better. Use 120-grit sandpaper.
Wipe Down: Remove all dust with a tack cloth or damp rag.
Prime: Apply a quality primer, especially if going from a dark to a light color, or if dealing with laminate.

Painting Process

Choose Your Paint: For cabinets, durable paints like alkyd enamel or cabinet-specific acrylics are best.
Apply Thin Coats: Avoid drips and streaks by applying thin, even coats.
Multiple Layers: Typically, two to three coats are needed for good coverage.
Allow Drying Time: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying between coats.
Sealant: A clear polycrylic or polyurethane can add durability and a finished look.

Staining Cabinets

Staining brings out the natural beauty of wood.

Preparation

Similar to Painting: Cleaning, light sanding, and dusting are essential.
Stripping (Optional): If you’re going from painted to stained, you’ll need to strip the old paint.
Wood Conditioner: For soft woods like pine, a wood conditioner helps prevent blotchiness.

Staining Process

Apply Stain: Use a brush or rag, applying in the direction of the wood grain.
Wipe Off Excess: Wipe away excess stain with a clean cloth after a few minutes, depending on the desired depth of color.
Multiple Coats: Apply additional coats for a deeper hue.
Topcoat: A protective topcoat (polyurethane, varnish) is crucial for durability.

2. Cabinet Upcycling Ideas: Beyond the Kitchen

Think outside the box for truly creative cabinet uses.

Media Console or TV Stand

Old base cabinets can be repurposed into stylish media centers.

Configuration: Arrange base cabinets side-by-side.
Open Shelving: Remove doors from some cabinets to display electronics or decorative items.
Cord Management: Drill holes in the back for cables.
Top Surface: Add a new countertop or a larger piece of wood to create a cohesive unit.

Entryway Bench with Storage

Wall cabinets or upper cabinets turned on their side can make charming entryway storage.

Orientation: Place a wall cabinet on its side to create a bench shape.
Reinforcement: Ensure it’s sturdy and can support weight. You might need to add legs or a base.
Cushion: Add a custom-made cushion for comfortable seating.
Storage: The interior is perfect for shoes, bags, or mail.

Potting Bench or Garden Station

Bring your gardening indoors or to a sheltered patio.

Base Cabinets: These are ideal for this project.
Countertop: A moisture-resistant countertop (e.g., sealed wood, granite remnant) is a must.
Sink (Optional): If you have a base cabinet with enough depth, you could install a small utility sink.
Open Shelving: Add shelves to the back for tools and supplies.
Protection: Seal all wood thoroughly with outdoor-grade sealant.

Garage or Workshop Storage

Cabinets are a natural fit for organized workshops.

Durability: They can hold tools, hardware, and supplies.
Mobility: Add heavy-duty casters to base cabinets to create mobile workstations.
Customization: Add pegboard inserts or specialized drawer organizers.

Bookshelves or Display Cabinets

Wall cabinets are perfect for showcasing books and collectibles.

Wall Mounting: Securely mount them to the wall.
Glass Doors: If they have solid doors, consider replacing them with glass for a more open look.
Paint or Stain: Update the finish to match your decor.

3. Cabinet Restoration Tips

Sometimes, cabinets just need a little TLC.

Repairing Minor Damage

Dents and Scratches: Use wood filler or an iron over a damp cloth (for superficial dents).
Loose Joints: Re-glue any loose joints with wood glue and clamp them securely.
Warped Doors: Sometimes, re-screwing hinges can help straighten a slightly warped door.

Hardware Updates

New Knobs and Pulls: This is one of the simplest and most impactful changes you can make. It’s a quick way to refresh the style of your cabinets.
Modernize Hinges: If your hinges are dated or not functioning well, replacing them can improve both appearance and function.

Cabinet Remodeling Projects: Bigger Transformations

For those looking for a more substantial change, consider these cabinet remodeling projects.

Replacing Cabinet Doors and Drawer Fronts

If the cabinet boxes are in good shape but the doors are dated, this is a great option.

Custom Options: You can order custom-made doors and drawer fronts from woodworking shops or online suppliers.
DIY Doors: If you’re skilled with woodworking, you can build your own.
Material: Choose from solid wood, MDF (for painting), or even a decorative laminate.

Adding or Modifying Shelving

Maximize your cabinet storage solutions by customizing the interior.

Adjustable Shelves: Install shelf pins to make shelves adjustable.
Pull-Out Shelves/Drawers: These make accessing items in deep cabinets much easier.
Spice Racks or Wine Racks: Integrate specialized storage within existing cabinet spaces.

Incorporating New Features

Glass Inserts: Add glass panels to cabinet doors for a display cabinet effect.
Lighting: Install LED strip lighting inside cabinets for a modern, functional touch.
Open Shelving Sections: Remove doors from some cabinet sections to create open shelving for displaying decor or everyday items.

Creative Cabinet Uses: Beyond the Usual

Let’s explore some truly imaginative ways to repurpose old cabinets.

Children’s Play Kitchen

Transform an old dresser or small cabinet into a charming play kitchen for kids.

Paint: Use bright, fun colors.
Details: Add knobs for burners, a painted sink, and a faucet.
Accessories: Include small pots, pans, and utensils.

Craft or Hobby Station

Organize your crafting supplies with a dedicated cabinet.

Drawer Dividers: Create custom dividers for paints, markers, or tools.
Pegboard: Install pegboard inside doors for hanging scissors, rulers, or brushes.
Roll-Out Shelves: Perfect for fabric or yarn storage.

Pet Feeding Station

Integrate a feeding station into a base cabinet.

Cut-Outs: Cut holes in a drawer front or a cabinet door to hold food and water bowls.
Roll-Out Tray: A pull-out tray can house the bowls for easy access and cleaning.
Storage: The cabinet itself can store pet food, leashes, or toys.

Bar or Coffee Station

Create a dedicated space for entertaining or your morning ritual.

Wine Rack Integration: Add a wine rack to a base cabinet.
Glass Holders: Install holders for wine glasses under a shelf.
Countertop Space: Ensure there’s enough counter space for mixing drinks or preparing coffee.
Lighting: Under-cabinet lighting can add ambiance.

Giving Cabinets a Second Life: A Step-by-Step Example (DIY Cabinet Makeover)

Let’s walk through a common scenario: painting old oak cabinets.

Project: Painting a standard kitchen cabinet door.

Materials:

Cabinet door
Screwdriver
Screws
Degreaser (TSP or similar)
Sponge and bucket
Painter’s tape
120-grit sandpaper
Sanding block
Tack cloth
High-quality primer (e.g., Zinsser B-I-N or Kilz)
Cabinet-grade paint (e.g., Benjamin Moore Advance, Sherwin-Williams Emerald Urethane)
High-density foam roller
Angled paintbrush
Optional: Polyurethane topcoat

Steps:

Remove and Clean: Unscrew the cabinet door from the cabinet box. Remove the hardware. Wash the door thoroughly with the degreaser to remove all grease and grime. Rinse and let it dry completely.
Sand: Lightly sand the entire surface of the door with 120-grit sandpaper. This creates a surface for the primer to adhere to.
Wipe: Use a tack cloth to remove all sanding dust. This is crucial for a smooth finish.
Prime: Apply one to two coats of primer. Allow each coat to dry thoroughly according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Sand Again (Optional but Recommended): After the primer is dry, lightly sand again with a finer grit (220-grit) to smooth out any imperfections. Wipe with a tack cloth.
Paint: Apply your chosen cabinet paint. Use the foam roller for the large flat areas and the angled brush for the edges and details. Apply thin, even coats.
Multiple Coats: Most projects require at least two to three coats of paint for full coverage and durability. Allow adequate drying time between coats.
Topcoat (Optional): For extra durability, especially in high-traffic areas, apply a clear polycrylic or polyurethane topcoat.
Reassemble: Once the paint (and topcoat, if used) is completely cured (this can take several days), reattach the hardware and hang the door back on the cabinet box.

Table: Choosing the Right Paint Finish

Finish	Pros	Cons	Best For
Matte	Hides imperfections well, very subtle sheen	Can be less durable, harder to clean	Low-traffic areas, modern looks
Eggshell	Slight sheen, good balance of durability/hiding	Shows minor imperfections more than matte	Most kitchen applications, living areas
Satin	Smooth, slightly more sheen, very durable	Shows imperfections more than eggshell	High-traffic areas, durable finishes needed
Semi-Gloss	Very durable, easy to clean, reflective	Shows every imperfection, can look “plastic”	Trim, doors, high-moisture areas (bathrooms)
High-Gloss	Extremely durable, very reflective, modern	Shows all imperfections, can be too much	Modern accents, specific design choices

Frequently Asked Questions About Repurposing Cabinets

Q1: Can I paint over laminate cabinets?

A1: Yes, you can paint over laminate cabinets, but proper preparation is crucial. You’ll need to clean them thoroughly, lightly sand to create a surface for the primer to adhere to, and then use a good quality primer specifically designed for laminate or glossy surfaces. Follow with durable cabinet paint.

Q2: What’s the best way to clean old cabinets before refinishing?

A2: A thorough cleaning is essential. Use a degreaser like Trisodium Phosphate (TSP) or a dedicated cabinet cleaner. For greasy buildup, you might need to go over them more than once. Always rinse thoroughly with clean water and allow them to dry completely.

Q3: How do I fix minor dents and scratches on wooden cabinets?

A3: For small dents, you can often use a damp cloth and an iron. Place the damp cloth over the dent and press with a warm iron. The steam can swell the wood fibers and lift the dent. For scratches, wood filler is a good option; match the color as closely as possible or use a stainable wood filler and then stain or paint over it.

Q4: Can I use a sprayer for cabinet painting?

A4: Yes, using a paint sprayer can give you a very smooth, professional finish. However, it requires more prep work to protect surrounding areas and the sprayer itself needs to be cleaned thoroughly. It’s best for those who are comfortable with spray equipment.

Q5: How long do repurposed cabinets typically last?

A5: With proper preparation, quality materials, and careful application, repurposed cabinets can last for many years, often as long as new ones. The durability depends heavily on the techniques used and the quality of the finishes applied.

Q6: What are some good cabinet storage solutions to add during a remodel?

A6: Consider adding pull-out shelves or drawers, adjustable shelving, built-in spice racks, lazy Susans for corner cabinets, and drawer organizers for cutlery and utensils. Lighting also greatly improves usability.

Q7: Is it worth restoring old solid wood cabinets?

A7: Absolutely! Solid wood cabinets are often very well-made and can be beautiful when restored. They offer excellent durability and can be sanded down and refinished or restained multiple times. Cabinet restoration tips include addressing any loose joints and repairing surface damage.

Q8: What are some creative cabinet uses for a small apartment?

A8: In a small apartment, consider repurposing upper cabinets as wall-mounted shelving units in a living room, bedroom, or even a hallway. They can also be transformed into compact desks or stylish storage for a balcony.

Q9: How can I update the look of my cabinets without painting or staining?

A9: You can update cabinets by replacing the hardware (knobs and pulls), adding decorative trim or molding, or even applying contact paper or wallpaper to the door fronts for a temporary and easily changeable look.

Q10: What is the most important step in a DIY cabinet makeover?

A10: The most crucial step is preparation. Thorough cleaning, sanding, and priming ensure that your paint or stain will adhere properly and the finish will be durable and smooth. Skipping or rushing preparation often leads to a less-than-ideal result.

By embracing these cabinet upcycling ideas and cabinet restoration tips, you can transform your old kitchen cabinets into functional, beautiful pieces that add character and value to your home. Happy repurposing!