How To Finish Raw Wood Cabinets

How to Finish Raw Wood Cabinets: A Step-by-Step Guide

Raw wood cabinets can be a beautiful and affordable addition to any home. However, they require a bit of finishing to protect them from the elements and to give them a polished look. In this article, we'll walk you through the steps on how to finish raw wood cabinets. ### 1. Gather Your Materials Before you begin, you'll need to gather all of the necessary materials. This includes: * Raw wood cabinets * Sandpaper (120-grit and 220-grit) * Wood filler * Putty knife * Paint or stain of your choice * Paintbrushes or rollers * Clear coat finish ### 2. Prepare the Cabinets The first step is to prepare the cabinets for finishing. This includes sanding them down to smooth out any rough edges and filling in any gaps or holes with wood filler. Use a 120-grit sandpaper for the initial sanding and then switch to a 220-grit sandpaper for the final sanding. Be sure to wipe off the dust after sanding. ### 3. Apply Wood Filler If there are any gaps or holes in the cabinets, you'll need to fill them in with wood filler. Use a putty knife to apply the wood filler and then let it dry according to the manufacturer's instructions. Once the wood filler is dry, sand it down until it is smooth. ### 4. Paint or Stain the Cabinets Once the cabinets are prepared, you can start painting or staining them. If you're painting the cabinets, use a paintbrush or roller to apply the paint. Be sure to use a paint that is specifically designed for wood. If you're staining the cabinets, use a stain brush to apply the stain. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying the stain. ### 5. Apply a Clear Coat Finish Once the paint or stain is dry, you'll need to apply a clear coat finish to protect the cabinets from wear and tear. You can use a brush or a roller to apply the clear coat finish. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying the clear coat finish. ### 6. Let the Cabinets Dry Once you've applied the clear coat finish, you'll need to let the cabinets dry completely. This may take several hours or even days, depending on the type of finish you used. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying times. ### 7. Enjoy Your New Cabinets! Once the cabinets are dry, you can enjoy your new finished cabinets! They will be a beautiful and durable addition to your home. ### Additional Tips * If you're not sure what color to paint or stain your cabinets, you can always ask for help at your local home improvement store. * If you're working with a large number of cabinets, you may want to consider renting a paint sprayer. This will make the painting process go much faster. * Be sure to wear gloves and a dust mask when you're working with paint or stain. * Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for the products you're using.