11 DIY Projects to Update Your Kitchen Cabinets

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Kitchen cabinet do a stack more than store tableware . They can make or break the look of the entire space . So when cabinets are drab or dated , an update may be in order . While replacingkitchen cabinetscan be both dear and time - consume — and a undertaking best go away to the pro , deal some more modest updates . “ A console makeover is a peachy direction to give your kitchen a new look in less time if the absolute majority of your cabinets are in just status and you ’re happy with your current layout , ” saysVictoria Yang , associate merchant , The Home Depot Cabinet Makeover .

There are a chain of mountains of projects to count for those eager to undertake storage locker update on their own . Perfect for amateur DIYers , simple decorative updates such as mounting under cabinet ignition and swapping out computer hardware can provide a big wallop . The handier set may want to try out some more ripe makeover techniques , such as painting and trim employment .

Here are 12 kitchen locker project to look at , start with update that can be done in one day and propel on to more in - astuteness weekend endeavors .

A modern kitchen with green-teal cabinets.

Photo: istockphoto.com

1. Install under cabinet lighting.

Under cabinet lightingis an well-off way to update cabinets , saysBrian Shaunfield , a store coach forLowe ’s . He recommends considering hockey puck lights , tape lights , and rophy lights . “ Plug - in and battery lights are extremely DIY favorable for installation and quick gratification , ” he tell , “ but hardwired lights want a skilled electrician for installation . ”

2. Swap out the hardware.

replace worn or dated ironware can significantly impact the overall look of the cabinet . Shaunfield points out thatnew hardwarecan also be a great option when strain to remain within a tight budget . Today’scabinet hardware choicesare apparently interminable and can suit most any mode preference , ranging from mod brushed gold to traditional options in demode bronze . “ When updating your locker computer hardware , you want to secure the new hardware equalize your décor and the manner of the ease of your house , ” advises Shaunfield .

3. Update the interior.

When it comes to thebest kitchen cabinet , what ’s on the inside subject , too . Consider an national makeover by adding decorative liners or wallpaper to the inside of the storage locker back , which can be specially impactful with trash front cabinets . Shaunfield recommendsstorage and organization featuresthat can be a relatively easy way to add more functionality to the kitchen .

4. Add framing or trim details.

5. Replace a section of cabinets with open shelving.

switch some or all upper cabinets foropen shelvingis an excellent option for those want to achieve a new look on a budget . The bulk of the study for this kitchen renovation project is removing old locker and patch the wall . To avoid this wallboard repair work , turn over eliminating doors and updating the subsist boxes to utilize as open shelving . mention that this undertaking is best for home plate without a raft of clutter that needs to be hidden out .

6. Add decorative touches to the center panels

A uncomplicated way to update framed cabinets is to give the center panel a facelift . Some way to do this include stencil , chalkboard paint , and wood appliques . Peel - and - stick wallpaperis also a great option . To apply , start by undress the sharpness back from the adhesive to line it up to the corner of the board . skin off the sleep and shine It down as it adheres to the Earth’s surface .

7. Replace the center panels.

In manyshaker - fashion doorway , the centre venire float , making it middling straightforward to remove for someone experienced with a router . Once it ’s out , there are plenty of permutation options to give the locker a makeover . Plexiglas is an cheap and mere path to get the look ofglass - front panels , or a glass store can assist cut the proper size dialog box for those who prefer the real thing . Other great choice include cane webbing ( behind the chalk ) or beadboard panels .

8. Try decorative toe-kicks.

9. Change the cabinet doors.

If the cabinet box seat are in skillful condition , replacing kitchen cabinet doorscan create a whole raw look in the kitchen without the need forbuying unexampled console . Shaunfield says it ’s best if intermediate DIYers harness this project . “ The task can be done in one weekend and can often save money compare to completely replacing cabinetwork , ” he enjoin . The undertaking may also require additional refacing or paint for a unseamed look . Refinishingor reface the threshold is another choice to get a new look without buy young cabinets .

10. Replace cabinet hinges.

Whether it ’s command for new doors or as a fix for cabinets that do n’t fully close or advert crooked , Shaunfield tell installing or replacingcabinet hingesis an easy DIY undertaking . “ If replacing cabinet hinges , you need to ensure you have compatible computer hardware for what is presently used in your cabinet , ” he pronounce , adding , “ Once you know the fashion of hardware , you simply need to absent existing hardware , deploy the raw hinges , and adjust them to aline to fit the doorway correctly . ”

11. Paint the cabinets.

While painting or restaining locker can seem like a simple projection , it ’s in reality fairly parturiency - intensive and it ’s best left to experience DIYers orprofessionalsas there are a lot offactors to considerbefore tackling the business . Shaunfield says to pop out by assess the shape of the cabinet to determine if the paint ask to be strip and whether the cabinet involve reparation . He recommendsstripping productsto help make it gentle to transfer old paint .

After emptying the cabinet and cleaning the surfaces , he says : “ The next step is to sand the area to control the surface area is smooth so the key job will be applied easily . ” Next , you ’ll require to undercoat the cabinets . Shaunfield suggest choose a high - quality paint , specificallycabinet paint , that can provide a high - lineament , smooth finish . He says , “ Ensure the pigment is acrylic and not vinyl since it is durable and easy to clean . ”

12. Call the pros.

If these projects feel overwhelming or insufficient , it may be time to call in the pros . look at a contractor or a local serve such as The Home Depot’sCabinet Makeoverprogram . “ Home Services at The Home Depot offer an olympian variety of kitchen cabinet and organisation serving for every home and budget , ” tell Yang . The Robert William Service are often completed in under a week and can include put back room access , drawers , flexible joint , glides , knob , and pulls .

This Is the Year for a Kitchen Renovation

Whether you ’re selling or staying , everyone can get something out of a kitchen update . determine why we consider this renovation the Most Valuable Project of 2025 and how to continue on budget .

Kitchen cabinets with lighting underneath.