what to do with the cupboard doors?

Question

we have just moved house and the cupboard doors are horrible they are cheap mdf with a brown checked pattern i just wondered if anyone knows what i could do with them to make them look nicer eventually i will get some new doors is that paint and grain stuff from b and q any good im from the uk

Answer 1

The "paint and grain stuff" does work:
- with practice
- limited patterns

Find yourself some books about faux finishing and or decorative painting.
Look for instructions on "graining" or "wood"
I've had some books from the library that show everything from simple pine to mahogany

I'll even go one better.
Here's a link from a local fellow here on Florida that will give you a few DOZEN samples and instructions.
http://www.thatpaintguy.tv/docs/project.htm

Now if this isn't the best answer you receive, then the Queen dislikes her dogs.

ADDITIONAL INFO:
this project is one of the easiest methods of graining that I've seen:
http://www.thatpaintguy.tv/docs/dtime011006.htm

Answer 2

You can paint mdf doors, and they can look great, if you prep them right. The best primer to use on mdf is white pigmented shellac. DO NOT use a latex or water based primer on mdf.....ever. If you can't get the shellac based primer in the U.K., then use a solvent based primer. Once either primer is dry, 4hrs on the shellac based, 24 hours on the solvent based, then you can use any top coat.

Answer 3

Sand them and prime them and you could also add some molding about 2 or 3 inches from the edge. prime those. and then paint them all over. Put on new hinges and knobs.

You can also do some kind of faux finish to match your other kitchen decor.

You could nail on a rectangle of upholstery nails to make it look like it's upholstered. Or paint different designs on the front to match the curtains or something else already in your kitchen.

Answer 4

If you want to paint the doors, 1st you after to take them down. Don't forget the mark them as to where they go after painting.

You will have to remove all paint or stain. Then you will have to sand them smother.

After all that the best thing to use is spray paint. Better to do this on calm day and don't forget to use face mask and eye protection and of course gloves.

You never want to do this in your house or garage.

Answer 5

Take them down and repaint them. Use the hole for the knob if there is one, and hang them up and paint them. This might be a good temporary fix until you get new doors.
PS we call them cabinets in the states. I'm not sure why?

Answer 6

U HAD THE HOUSE MOVED TO THE UK?
REPLACE THE DOORS, DONT BELIEVE THERE IS A TEMP FIX AND SPENT MORE MONEY LATER?
PAINT OR STAIN IS YOUR CHOICE.

Answer 7

you could use a primer and then paint with the color of your choice and change out the handles.

Answer 8

live with it untill you can buy good ones. dont waste your time or your money.