Expert: Eileen Cronk - 8/7/2006

Question
Hi Eileen,

I'm in the process of re-doing my new to me apartment and I want to refinish the kitchen cabinets.  The cabinet frames are solid oak stained with a light finish however the boxes are particle board with an oak kindof laminate (I don't really know how to explain it) product on the surface.  Is there a way I can re-stain these without sanding and making a big mess?  Plus the laminate is thin so I can't sand it too much.  And can you recommend a nice dark stain for oak in the kitchen.

Thanks and regards,

Todd

Answer
Hi Todd
Nice to hear from you.You are so right not to attempt to sand this laminate.
My only suggestion would be to try washing with a TSP solution using fine steel wool as a scrubber.
This will slightly deglaze this laminate and possible allow the stain to stick.
Often all this so called laminate is nothing but a plastic coating printed with a wood grain. If thats the case it cannot be changed. If its actually wood veneer, even if very thin, the stain should take. But don't sand, use the wash above.
Minwax Special Walnut color is lovely on oak, but always do a test area.
If its not dark enough for you, mix it half again with Minwax dark walnut color.
Good Luck
Regards
Eileen