I have an oak kitchen 80's style with cupboards that I need to refinish to keep my sanity as I think they are very dated and a complete eyesore but too expensive for me to replace at the moment. I was reading this months HH and there is an article and picture of a kitchen like mine that was faux painted with milk paint and her countertop was made of wood boards. Does anyone know how I can do this myself or find someone in my area (Ottawa) that can do this? Where on earth would I find the countertop?
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For those of you looking for the inspiration photo that Katie was referring to.
House & Home, April 2003
pg. 146
"Painterly Kitchen Facelift"
1. Paint the surface in a Cream or Antique White color. Two coats is always best.
For best results use a Melamine paint (which is oil-based) and dries to a hard finish, for best durability without having to prime. Or if you prefer to use water based products, use a latex/acrylic paint with at least a Satin or Semi-gloss finish for washability and durability. You would want to prime the surface first. If bleeding through of knot holes or wood grain is a concern, use a stain blocking oil-base primer. If not a concern, then you can use an acrylic primer.
2. After base coat is dry and ready for topcoating, use a Brown paint that is thinned a little, or a brown stain, and brush on over the surface, making sure to get into all the little crevices and grooves in the panels and moldings of the cabinets. Before it starts to dry, use a lint free cloth (cheesecloth works well) and lightly wipe off the stain. Because the cloth can't get into all those grooves, the brown will remain behind, and is what gives you the "antique" or "worn" appearance. If you think you have rubbed off too much of the brown, or would like it to be darker, just reapply some more stain, and repeat the process.
(Don't be afraid of making mistakes, because faux finishing is very forgiving.)
Replace your existing hardware with antique or reproduction knobs/pulls. Lots are available at local building centers or hardware stores. You might be surprised by the selection and prices. Home Depot has lots to choose from. Also try Restoration Hardware, but these are a little more pricey.
Good Luck!
(p.s. My advice comes from working in Paint Dept. at Home Depot)
1. Wash the surface with T.S.P. or a t.s.p. substitute (phosphate free) to remove any waxy buildup, grease or oil (from fingerprints), off the surface.
2. Rinse with warm water to remove any residue left behind from t.s.p.
3. Lightly sand with a fine sandpaper, about 220 grit, to scuff up the glossy surface or finish that may already be on your cupboards.
4. ready to paint
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