Give Cabinets A Brand New Look With These Simple Ideas

Bright & Blue - BHG

Has your kitchen become just a bit ho-hum and a renovation is a out of reach? In a recent Better Homes & Gardens weekly newsletter I found some really cute and fairly simple updates for cabinets. All of these require a little work and most likely a some money (of course you may already have some of the supplies) but when compared to the cost and stress of renovation - it's like a cake walk.

Peek-A-Boo Bird - BHG

I love this idea, it doesn't have to be a bird any print you like could be used. 

Directions: Apply a coat of polyurethane to seal the wood. To create this peekaboo bird, trace a bird onto contact paper (or use clip art found online), then cut it out and press it onto the cabinet front. Use your fingernail to seal the edges tightly. Paint the cabinet (off-white semigloss interior latex paint was used here but choose the color you like). When dry, carefully remove the contact paper to reveal your design. Use a damp cloth to remove any paint that bleeds under the contact paper.

Photo Finish - BHG

This idea is perfect for anyone who loves to display pictures. 

In fact I should show this idea to my oldest daughter, she loves displaying photos around her home, of course my son-in-law may not be to happy. Oh well, 'tis the job of a Mother-In-Law. 

Directions: Turn your kitchen into a photo album by displaying your favorite photos. Affix a picture frame to the door, add a photo, and finish with a new knob. Use the following link - See how to make these photo-embellished doors. - for project tips and detailed instructions.

  

Bead-Board Basics - BHG

 I love the look of bead-board, to me it has a classic look.

Directions: Add country flavor to your kitchen with this technique. Bead-board panels are inset in the cutout center section of the door. Paint, stain, or glaze the door any color you prefer. Keep in mind that bead-board can be used in a variety of decor styles, it's not just for a country look.

Tile Style - BHG

 Wow, with the variety of tiles available, imagine the possibilities.

Directions: After you've primed and painted your cabinets, add a little sparkle with tile. Lay out and trim mesh-back glass tile to fit the door panel. Apply tile adhesive to the door with a putty knife and adhere the tiles. You don't need to grout the tile, but if you do, be sure the cabinet hinges are strong enough to hold the extra weight of the grout.

This was just a small example of ideas for sprucing up your cabinets. With a little imagination I bet you will come up with even more creative ideas. Of course most important "Have Some Fun".