Change Cabinet Color Without Replacing - My Honey Oak Makeover

If you're like me, you may have found yourself living in a home with dated honey oak cabinets that make your kitchen feel stuck in the 90s. I loved the layout and functionality of our kitchen, but those orangey-brown cabinets had to go. The idea of tearing them out and replacing them with fresh, bright white cabinets seemed like an impossible expense. Then I discovered I could completely transform the look of my existing cabinets without taking on a huge renovation project. With some simple cleaning, sanding, staining, and sealing, I was able to change the color of my cabinets for a fraction of the cost of new cabinetry. The results blew me away! Read on for my complete step-by-step process to revitalize honey oak cabinets with stain.

Prep Work is Crucial

They key to getting an even, consistent finish when restaining cabinets is proper preparation. You'll need to start by thoroughly cleaning and deglossing the existing cabinet surfaces. Pay special attention to areas near the stove, sink and countertops where grease and grime often accumulate. I recommend using a deglosser like Dirtex or a TSP substitute to remove any oil or wax buildup. After cleaning, lightly sand the cabinets with a fine grit sandpaper. This roughens up the finish so the new gel stain can properly bond. Be sure to wipe away all dust with a tack cloth before moving on to staining.

Clean Surfaces Thoroughly

It's important to remove any grease, dirt or residue from your cabinet boxes and doors. I used Dirtex cleaner and degreaser, but you can also use a trisodium phosphate (TSP) substitute mixed with water. Wear protective gloves and eye gear when cleaning. Focus on areas like around the stove vent, near sinks and countertops, and the grimiest lower cabinets. Scour with a scrub brush and rinse clean. This deglossing opens the wood grain and allows the new stain to penetrate.

Sand Cabinets Lightly

After cleaning, lightly sand your cabinets with a fine 220 grit or higher sandpaper. You only need to scuff up the finish, not remove it completely. Sand in the direction of the wood grain using light, even strokes. Sand all cabinet fronts, sides, frames, and doors. Pay close attention to edges and corners. This sanding promotes adhesion by giving the stain something to grip. Wipe away all dust with a tack cloth.

Remove Dust and Debris

Before staining, you'll need to remove any dust or debris left behind from sanding. Use a lint-free tack cloth to wipe down all cabinet surfaces. You can also use a shop vac on cabinet interiors. Remaining dust particles can get stuck in the new stain, so thoroughly wipe and vacuum. Now your cabinets are prepped and ready for staining!

Pick the Right Stain

With honey oak cabinets, you'll want to choose a stain color that complements the warm wood tones rather than clashing with them. I prefer to use a gel stain because it adheres well to vertical surfaces like cabinet frames and doors. Gel stains are also highly pigmented for rich, consistent color. After testing stains on an inconspicuous spot, I chose General Finishes Java gel stain to give my cabinets a deep espresso tone. The dark color beautifully enhances the oak while helping hide any scratches or flaws in the wood. Here are some pointers for selecting the perfect stain:

Color Considerations

Going with a darker stain is usually best for transforming the color of honey oak while still allowing its natural pattern and grain to show through. I recommend an espresso, walnut or ebony shade. Choosing a stain close to the oak's undertones creates a cohesive finished look. Stay away from lighter stains like maple or pine that won't mask the orange hues. Always test your chosen stain in an inconspicuous spot before committing to the entire kitchen.

Stain Types

I prefer gel stains because they resist dripping and are formulated to stick to vertical surfaces like cabinet frames. Oil-based stains also provide nice color depth, but require proper ventilation during application. Water-based stains have minimal odor but may take extra coats to achieve bold color. Consider oil-based or gel for the most color in the fewest coats.

Product Recommendations

Based on my experience, here are some great stain options: - General Finishes Gel Stains - Available in 35 colors from ebony to cherry. Provides rich color in fewer coats. I used Java on my oak cabinets. - Minwax Wood Finish Gel Stain - This oil-based gel stain goes on smooth. Popular colors are Espresso, Walnut and Ebony. - Zar Oil-Based Stain - Provides deep, uniform staining with heavy-bodied formula. Easy soap and water cleanup.

Proper Stain Application Techniques

The way you apply the gel stain will determine the finished look, so use proper techniques for the best results. Work in small sections, applying thin coats. After each stain application, use a clean sock to gently wipe and blend the stain into a smooth, uniform finish. Here are some tips:

Work in Sections

Don't attempt to stain your entire kitchen at once. Divide cabinets into sections - maybe upper cabinets first, then lowers, then island. Stain just a few cabinet doors or a single cabinet frame at a time. This allows you to maintain a wet edge and blend as you go for consistent coloring.

Use Various Tools

Apply gel stain with a foam brush, lint-free rag, stain pad or cotton cloth. Use a plastic bag over your hand for more control. Once the stain is spread, immediately smooth it out using a clean microfiber cloth or a rolled-up tube sock. The sock helps blend the stain evenly across the wood.

Thin, Multiple Coats

For best results, apply multiple thin coats of gel stain rather than one thick coat. Thin coats allow you to gradually build up color intensity. Brush the stain on liberally but then wipe off any excess. Let the first coat fully dry before adding another coat. Slowly developing the color creates a more natural look.

Sand Between Coats

I recommend lightly sanding with fine 320-400 grit sandpaper between coats of stain. This smooths out the finish and removes any drips, dust or debris. Always wipe the cabinets with a tack cloth after sanding to remove dust before applying the next coat of stain. The sanding ensures an even, smooth final finish.

Sealing and Protecting Wood

Once you've achieved the ideal stain color after 2-3 coats, you'll need to seal and protect the wood with a clear topcoat. I recommend using a water-based polyurethane for protection without yellowing. Oil-based polyurethanes provide a warmer glow but require more ventilation. For either, allow proper drying time between coats and lightly sand to ensure a smooth finish.

Polyurethane Topcoats

I chose Minwax Polycrylic for protection after staining because it dries fast and has very low odor. Water-based polys like Polycrylic won't amber or yellow over time like oil-based versions. For extra protection from moisture and grease, consider an oil-based poly but make sure there is good airflow during application and drying.

Allow Proper Drying Time

It's important to let each coat of polycrylic fully dry before adding another coat. The sealer dries quickly, but follow manufacturer guidelines, which are usually at least 2 hours between coats. Cool, dry conditions may require longer drying times. Rushing this step by sealing too soon can ruin the finish.

Light Sanding Between Coats

For best results, do a light sanding between coats of polyurethane using 320 or 400 grit sandpaper. This ensures an ultra-smooth finish by lightly scuffing the surface. Be sure to wipe away all dust with a tack cloth before applying the next coat of sealer. Follow with a final coat after sanding for maximum protection.

Finishing Touches for a Polished Look

Once the staining and sealing steps are complete, it's time to reinstall hardware and attachments for a fully finished kitchen. For an extra custom look, consider matching new hardware like cup pulls and knobs to your updated cabinet color. I'll also share tips on using this same staining process to give other oak furniture pieces a quick makeover.

Add Hardware

After allowing the stain and sealer to fully cure for several days, it's safe to reinstall the cabinet hardware you removed before starting the project. Choose knobs, pulls, hinges and handles that complement your updated cabinet color. I selected matte black hardware to contrast nicely with the dark espresso stain.

Treat Other Surfaces

In addition to oak cabinets, the same gel stain can be used on oak railings, beds, dressers, shelves and more. Simply follow the same steps for preparation, application and sealing. You may need to tape off edges and hardware. Avoid using this staining technique on particle board, laminate or unfinished wood.

It's amazing what a dramatic difference restaining can make without the hefty cost or mess of cabinet replacement. I'm so happy I was able to update the look of my kitchen by giving my honey oak cabinets a modern makeover. The espresso gel stain helped enhance the oak's natural grain while creating a warm, cohesive look. I can't wait to show off the before and after photos! With some time and elbow grease, you can easily change the color of your outdated oak cabinets.