Whether you have just purchased a new house or you want to give your existing kitchen a face-lift, new kitchen cabinets are a cheap and efficient way to beautify a kitchen.  When you reface kitchen cabinets you are essentially only changing out the doors and adding a bit of veneer to the sides.  This relatively simple home improvement gives the look and feel of brand new cabinets without the hefty price tag.

For this project you will need new cabinet doors, peel and stick veneer, plywood, a small saw, a drill, wood glue, sandpaper, and a small razor blade knife.  After removing all the cabinet doors, you will want to clean everything with TSP and then rough up all surfaces with 120-grit sandpaper.  After that, you will want to glue all the pre-cut plywood to the exposed end of the cabinet back.

Next you are going to want to start measuring and cutting veneer.  Measure all the vertical frame members and horizontal members and cut the veneer into strips two inches longer and one half inch wider than each member.  Place the veneer over the member so the excess veneer overhangs evenly, then peel the back of the veneer and attach it to the vertical and horizontal frames.  Finally, take a wooden block and press firmly and evenly all over the veneer to strengthen the adhesion and force out bubbles.

Once the veneer has adhered, take the razor utility knife and trim the veneer so the edges are flush.  This is the most difficult task when trying to reface kitchen cabinets, so take your time. The horizontal rail veneer should overlap the vertical stile veneer.  After you have cut the excess rail veneer, gently lift the rail and remove the excess style.  Now press firmly on the rail veneer and smooth out the transition.

Now you’re going to want to line up and measure the hinges for the cabinet door. Drill the hinges to the door then align the door with the cabinet and temporarily screw it in place.  Open and close the door, and if it is positioned correctly, open the door and tighten the screws.

After all doors are attached, you’re going to want to attach all knobs and door handles.  Position and mark all knobs and handles, then pre-drill all holes.  Next screw all knobs, pulls, and handles into place.  Some people find it helpful to create a jig out of plywood to keep drill hole spacing consistent.   With the above tips you should be able to successfully reface kitchen cabinets.