Cabinets, Furniture, Woodworks/paint or stain

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Expert: - 4/26/2009


Question
Hello Eileen,
   I have oak pickled cabinets in my kitchen. I would like to bring my kitchen up to date.I have just ordered granite counter tops. The cabinets are in good shape and I don't think they need replacing. I plan on doing the work myself to save money. Is there any stain that will go over this stain or should I sand and paint. I would like to make the cabinets darker if I can stain them. If I have to paint I will go cream. Just not sure what to do, I like the wood.
 Thanks, Beth

Answer
Hi Beth
Nice to hear from you.
I fully understand your problem.
There is no way to change stain color other than a complete strip with paint stripper. You must get down to clean wood.
This can be very difficult if its a fairly new finish.
The next problem will be if the oak will take a dark stain. It likely won't.
Personally I feel its a paint job.
Hope this helps
Regards
Eileen

Cabinets, Furniture, Woodworks

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Eileen Cronk

Expertise

Hi..I can answer most questions about the repairing,stripping and refinishing of all your old furniture and wood items(the things we call antiques)I can give advice about what to buy/avoid at auctions/flea markets. I do not give appraisals on antiques.

Experience

I have been refinishing antiques for the past 30yrs. While I have taken several courses over the years,I have found that "hands on" learning is the best teacher. Perhaps I can help you avoid some of the mistakes I made while learning.

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