Expert: Eileen Cronk - 3/30/2009

Question
Hi, I am in the process of sanding my  20 years old oak kitchen cabinets.  I found out the sides of cabinets are made with different kind of material which I am not even sure what it is.  I have sanded a small part but it looks like a dusted surface.  I am not sure what to do do with anymore?  Any suggestion would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Simin

Answer
Hi Simin
Nice to hear from you.
Simon its obvious the cabinet wood is actually not real wood but a particle board of some kind which could have one of those "photo finishes".
This is almost like a lightweight plastic film applied to the board then the wood grain is printed on it.
Your description of "it looks like a dusted surface" after sanding is true.
In any event this cannot be refinished as you are finding out.
It can however be painted successfully. I have done this on quite a few occasions.
And think about keeping the doors a natural wood color with the cabinets painted a nice complimentary color. I have done this and it looks great. You can also spray paint your hinges and knobs and handles to further update.
Get back to me if you have further questions about the process.
Regards
Eileen