Shaker Cabinet Style

Transform Old Cabinets into Stylish Shaker Cabinets

13 Min Read

Are your kitchen cabinets outdated? Do you wish for stylish shaker cabinets but find it expensive? You’ll be glad to know there’s a budget-friendly option. You can transform your old cabinets into beautiful shaker style ones without a high cost.

This DIY process is simple. You can get the timeless and chic look of shaker cabinets in your kitchen. Let me show you how to turn your old cabinets into stylish shaker ones. You’ll see your space come to life with this transformation.

Key Takeaways:

• Transforming old cabinets into shaker style is a budget-friendly option to update your kitchen.
• You can create shaker-style trim using wood molding strips.
• Painting your cabinets with the right color can instantly give them a fresh and modern look.
• Reassembling the cabinets with new hardware will complete the shaker cabinet transformation.
• By following this DIY method, you can achieve a customized and stylish kitchen without spending a fortune.

Why Choose Shaker Style Cabinets?

Shaker style cabinets are a top pick for many homeowners’ kitchen designs. They offer a timeless look that suits both old and new settings. The design was first used by a group called the Shakers in the 18th century.

These cabinets are all about simplicity and clean lines. This style remains popular because of its classic appeal. It fits well in both traditional homes and modern ones.

You can use them in a cozy farmhouse kitchen or a trendy, modern space. Their minimal, yet elegant, design is loved by many. Shaker cabinets are crafted from solid hardwood, making them strong and durable.

A shaker cabinet is made of five parts, including rails, stiles, and a panel. Its basic design creates a neat and simple appearance. This look is highly sought after by those renovating kitchens.

What’s more, shaker cabinets come in various colors and finishes. You can choose from a wide assortment, including white, maple, black, and gray. Plus, there are different finishes you can apply to match your style.

For cabinet hardware, you have many choices. You might choose ceramic or glass knobs, or different types of pulls. These details can really personalize your kitchen.

Not only are shaker cabinets beautiful, but they are also budget-friendly. Making them with straightforward designs helps lower the cost. They’re great for small kitchens too because they’re light.

Shaker cabinets are also easy to customize. You can pick from woods like oak, cherry, or birch. This means you can get cabinets just the way you want them, within your budget.

To sum it up, shaker style cabinets are a timeless choice for any kitchen. They offer a simple and classy look. With so many possibilities for design and materials, they’re a favorite for those looking to beautify their kitchen.

Supplies You’ll Need

To change your old cabinets into chic shaker cabinets, you’ll require a few key items. Below is everything you’ll need:

• 1 or 2 sheets of 4×8 1/4″ plywood
• Miter Saw
• Nail Gun
• Orbital Sander
• Detail Sander
• Wood Filler
• Putty Knife
• 80 grit, 150 grit, and 220 grit sandpaper
• Wood Molding Strips (recommended width: 2.5″ per strip)
• Ryobi Airstrike Nailer
• Finish Nails
• Caulk
• Sanding Block
• Primer
• Interior Paint
• Spray Painter
• Painters Tape
• Cabinet Knobs

These items are crucial for changing the style of your cabinets. They ensure a professional, trendy finish.

Having all the correct supplies makes reworking cabinets easier. This makes it simpler to get the sleek shaker style you want.

Step-by-Step Guide to Transforming Cabinets

If your cabinets need an update, turning them into shaker style is a good move. This guide will help you get that pro look. Here’s how to do it step by step.

1. Remove the existing doors and hardware

First, take off the doors and hardware. This makes working on the doors easier and the finish better.

2. Flip the doors over and measure and cut wood molding strips

Next, turn the doors over. Then, measure and cut wood molding strips for the shaker trim. The trim width should be 2.5″, but you can change it to fit your style.

3. Attach the wood strips to the doors

Use wood glue and nails. The author suggests using an Airstrike Nailer. Start with full-length strips vertically. Then, fill in the tops and bottoms.

4. Fill in any holes and blemishes

After attaching the strips, fill in holes with wood filler. This makes the surface ready for paint.

5. Sand everything smooth

Sand everything starting with 80 grit, then 150, and finally 220 grit sandpaper. The author used a Ryobi Orbital Sander.

6. Prepare for paint

Protect areas with painters tape. This ensures your lines are clean.

7. Apply primer and multiple coats of interior paint

Use a spray painter for primer and paint. After the primer dries, add several light coats of paint. Behr Swiss Coffee paint in Semi Gloss is recommended.

8. Assemble the cabinet back together

After the paint is dry, put the cabinet back together. Add new knobs. This finishes the look.

Follow these steps to turn your old cabinets into beautiful shaker style. Be careful with tools and safety. Plan for days of work and don’t forget your supplies. Now, enjoy your new kitchen!

Tips and Tricks for a Successful Transformation

Turning your old cabinets into trendy Shaker style takes careful work. It’s all about planning and paying close attention to details. Here’s some advice to make your transformation a hit:

1. Take Accurate Measurements

Getting your cabinet doors’ trim right starts with being exact. It’s crucial to take precise measurements. Always measure twice, cut once to fit your wood molding perfectly.

2. Clean and Sand Doors

Getting your cabinet doors ready involves good cleaning and sanding. Wipe off all grease and dirt. Then, sand them smooth using three grits of sandpaper for a flawless paint base.

3. Use a Spray Painter

To get a flawless finish, a spray painter is your best bet. It will make your cabinet doors look pro. With a spray painter, those distracting brushstrokes disappear.

4. Apply Multiple Coats of Paint

For a strong and beautiful finish, several coats of paint are essential. It offers better protection and stands up to daily use. This step is key to lasting beauty.

5. Attach New Hardware

Adding new hardware finishes off your Shaker cabinets perfectly. The right knobs or handles can really lift how your cabinets look and work. Choose carefully for maximum impact.

By using these hacks and hints, you can take on your cabinet makeover with confidence. You’ll craft amazing Shaker cabinets that redefine your kitchen’s style.

Cost Savings and Benefits of Cabinet Refacing

Looking into kitchen upgrades, cabinet refacing is a wallet-friendly choice with big saving points. It typically costs between $4,500 and $13,000. This includes labor and things like new doors and cabinet hardware.

The price to reface cabinets changes based on your kitchen’s size and what materials you choose. For a 10’x10′ kitchen, it could run from $1,000 to $4,000 if you’re on a tight budget. But splurging could see you paying from $7,500 to $15,000. Here’s how costs break down by kitchen size:

• Less than 100 sq. ft.: $1,000 to $3,500
• 100-200 sq. ft.: $2,500 to $10,000
• 200+ sq. ft.: $5,000 to $20,000

Opting for cabinet refacing over replacing can cut 30% to 50% off your kitchen remodeling expenses. This savings is due to not having to get rid of the old cabinets. Plus, you skip the cost of putting in brand new ones.

Aside from saving money, refacing cabinets has other pluses too. It’s a green option that cuts down on waste by reusing the cabinets’ main structures. You also avoid the mess and hassle of a full cabinet swap, keeping your kitchen usable during the work.

Cabinet refacing lets you pick the style and color that fits best with your taste. From a sleek modern vibe to a timeless shaker design, there are plenty of looks to choose from.

One thing to keep in mind is that while cabinet refacing is a cheaper option early on, you might need to spend more later. Refacing doesn’t fix the core cabinet parts. So, you could need to fully replace them one day. With good upkeep, refaced cabinets can last a long time, though.

So, cabinet refacing is a smart, affordable, and greener way to update your kitchen. It’s ideal for those who want to change their kitchen’s look or up its functionality without spending a lot or causing a big mess.

Inspiration for Your Shaker Cabinet Update

Get Inspired by Stunning DIY Kitchen Makeovers

Planning to give your cabinets a new look with shaker designs? It’s good to find some inspiration first. Luckily, there are many before and after photos online. They show amazing DIY kitchen changes. These can really get you thinking about your own project.

Looking at these examples can help you find ideas. You might like white shaker styles or more colorful ones. Photos of real projects can show you what’s possible. This can help you imagine how your kitchen might look.

Photos show how shaker cabinets can transform any kitchen, big or small. They prove just how big a difference these changes can make. They might just be the push you need to start your own project.

Take your time to look at websites, blogs, and social media. These places have lots of DIY kitchen makeover photos. You should look for designs that match what you want. Notice the small details and how they fit the whole space.

Every kitchen is different, and there are many options for your cabinets. Let the creativity of others spark your ideas. Then, trust your own vision to guide you. This way, you can turn your cabinets into stunning shaker pieces.

Ready to begin? Let’s learn how to transform your cabinets into shaker styles.

The Versatility of Shaker Cabinets

Shaker cabinets are a great choice because they fit many kitchen styles. It doesn’t matter if your look is modern, traditional, or a mix of both. Shaker cabinets blend well with any design.

One big plus of shaker cabinets is their ability to match different colors. You can choose bold or subtle shades that suit your taste. Shaker cabinets will look great in any color, letting you customize your kitchen’s look.

Their simple yet elegant design helps shaker cabinets work with various decor elements. The clean lines on shaker doors fit in with different styles. So, whether you want your kitchen to look sleek or cozy, shaker cabinets can make it happen.

Shaker cabinets are a smart choice because they last a long time. They’re popular and built to endure, even as styles change. You can easily update them by changing the hardware or adding new finishes.

What’s more, shaker cabinets work well in kitchens of any size. They are lighter and simpler than some other styles, which helps with small spaces. They also cost less to install than more complex cabinet choices.

Shaker Cabinets: Perfect Combination of Style and Adaptability

Shaker cabinets match various kitchen looks, colors, and designs. They are a great pick for any type of kitchen, offering both style and flexibility. Homeowners love shaker cabinets for their timeless appeal and endless customization options.

Maintenance and Care for Shaker Cabinets

To keep shaker cabinets looking great and lasting a long time, regular care is essential. Let’s go over some key tips:

Dusting Regularly

Dusting often is key to avoid dirt and grime buildup on your cabinets. Just use a soft cloth or a microfiber duster to gently wipe the surfaces clean.

Gentle Cleaning Solutions

For deeper cleans, stay away from harsh chemicals. These can harm the cabinet finish. Instead, choose gentle solutions. You can mix baking soda with water to clean off tough spots. Then, use vinegar and olive oil to polish and shine your cabinets.

Avoiding Harsh Chemicals

Using harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or scouring pads should be avoided. They can damage your cabinets by removing the finish. Always opt for mild cleaners and soft cloths to keep your cabinets safe.

Prompt Spill Cleanup

Spills need to be cleaned up right away to stop them from staining or harming your cabinets. Once you spot a spill, wipe it up using a mild cleaner or with a damp cloth.

By sticking to these care tips, your shaker cabinets will look stylish and clean for many years to come.

Advantages of DIY Cabinet Refacing

Looking to update your kitchen cabinets? DIY cabinet refacing is a smart choice. It saves money, lets you customize, gives a proud feeling, and works fast.

Cost Savings

DIY cabinet refacing costs less than hiring pros or getting new cabinets. Cabinet replacements could be pricey, from $3,000 to $30,000. Refacing is 30% to 50% cheaper, making it more affordable.

Customization

You can make your cabinets fit your style with DIY refacing. Pick door styles, materials, finishes, and hardware that match your kitchen and taste. Letting you showcase your unique design choices.

Sense of Accomplishment

Doing the refacing yourself feels great. You’re in control and each step adds to your project. Picking materials, working on finishes—you get to see your hard work turn into beautiful cabinets.

Flexibility in Timeline

Refacing doesn’t take as long as replacing cabinets. It’s done in days, not weeks like new installs. This lets you update your kitchen quicker and with less disturbance. Good for busy homeowners or those who want a speedy renovation.

DIY cabinet refacing brings many perks. It’s cost-effective, allows personal touches, brings pride, and is done quickly. It’s a great way to revamp your cabinets without a big expense. So, why not try it and make your kitchen cabinets stand out?

Conclusion

Turning your old cabinets into stylish shakers is a smart, wallet-friendly choice for a kitchen upgrade. By sticking to our guide and tips, you will get a pro look for less.

To change flat doors into shaker style, gather simple items. You need plywood, a Miter Saw, Nail Gun, and more. Use different sandpapers to make everything smooth. Trim it at 2.5 inches to get the perfect shaker style.

Use wood filler to cover gaps and fix any door damage. Caulk the edges for a better look. Prime and paint to finish it off smoothly.

The project takes a few days, but this can change. It depends on how much you focus and if you do sections at a time. Even with this, it’s a great way to change your kitchen affordably.