Expert: Eileen Cronk - 9/2/2008

Question
Hello Eileen,
We are remodeling our home for resale. We have golden oak cabinets which are in good condition and are thinking of painting them a warm white linen  color with a sateen finish. What is your take on this? I am really leary about doing this process. I really want a beautiful finished look. We are contemplating a blue black granite to make the kitchen pop. We don't have much of a budget theefore painting e thought would do the job. How do we go about this?
In anticipation of your response, I thank you sooo much. I am really afraid of undertaking this project. Our appliances are stainless steel. Our range hood is black. HELLLLP!!! SCARED STIFF
Evy

Answer
Hi Evy
Nice to hear from you.
Evy I am concerned for you.
This is a really big job for an experienced painter. You are not and thats why I am concerned.
If you are doing this to sell your house the job must be done to perfection like you want.
The grain in your oak cabinets will always show through the paint..is this suitable to you?
While I like your color idea, I personally would not want white painted kitchen cabinets. Give me oak any day.
But your question was "How do we go about this?"
First the doors need to be removed.
Then all hinges, handles and knobs.
Next a good cleaning all over with a degreaser.
Then a light sanding of all surfaces with 120 grit sandpaper.
Then use a "tack cloth" to remove all dust.
Then a coat of latex primer, then two coats of your color choice.
Best of luck with this.
Regards
Eileen