Refinishing Kitchen Cabinets

Question

I would like to refinish my kitchen cabinets that are lacquered with a dark brown lacquer.

I want to strip the lacquer and repaint them in a solid color. I do not want a glossy finish and am worried about paint brush strokes. I was considering an antique looking finish.

Answer

If you are painting the cabinets there is no need to strip them down to bare wood. If the finish is smooth but glossy, just remove the gloss with medium sandpaper, say 100 grit. A palm sander is excellent for this job.

Then paint the surface with 3 coats of a Urethane paint, such as Varathane. You can choose a satin or semi-gloss finish. No primer is needed, even on bare wood. Follow the directions on the can. Varathane goes on easily with a brush and levels out to a smooth surface, showing no brush strokes. Just make sure you apply it in a warm room. Between coats, sand with extra fine sandpaper such as 220. Make sure the last coat is put on in a dust free environment.

Dave