Cabinets, Furniture, Woodworks/oak cabinets

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Expert: - 4/28/2010


Question
i would like to paint some kitchen cabinets, would i need to sand
them down or strip them first. and what kind of paint would i need
thanks

Answer
Hi Florence
Nice to hear from you.
If you get a good degreaser and some medium grade steel wool (not SOS pads), and give the cabinets a real aggressive scrubbing you can avoid the mess of sanding.
This will do two things. Remove all grease and grime and slightly deglaze the surface so your paint will stick.
But you can certainly sand after the degreasing if you like.
Use 120 grit sandpaper.
The paint I always choose for cabinets is oil based melamine.
It will outlast normal latex many times.
Get back if you need further help.
Regards
Eileen

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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.

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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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