My Complete Kitchen Cabinet Refinishing Process (Start to Finish)
Thinking about updating your kitchen? Before committing to a full remodel or replacing your cabinets entirely, consider professional kitchen cabinet refinishing — it’s a more affordable way to transform your space without the mess or cost of a full tear-out. With the right prep and products, refinished cabinets can look just as clean and modern as new ones.
At Craft & Revive, I specialize in cabinet refinishing and kitchen cabinet painting in the Dayton, Ohio area — and I also offer cabinet door replacements if you're looking to update the style along with the finish. Whether you want a modern shaker look or something more traditional, I can refinish your existing cabinets or install new doors to give your kitchen a whole new feel.
In this post, I’ll walk you through my full cabinet refinishing process — step by step. Whether you're a local homeowner exploring options or someone in the trade looking to improve your workflow, this guide covers everything from on-site prep to final coat.
Most kitchen cabinet refinishing projects take about two weeks:
Week One: I work on-site to prep, seal, prime, and paint the cabinet boxes.
Week Two: I refinish the doors and drawers in my shop — or install new custom doors if requested — and prepare everything for final installation.
Week One: On-Site Cabinet Box Refinishing
Preparation
All cabinet doors and drawers are removed and labeled so everything goes back exactly where it belongs.
Hardware and hinges are removed and safely stored.
Floors are protected, and a clean pathway is set up to keep the home free of dust and debris.
Cabinet boxes are masked off and sealed with plastic so no paint gets inside.
Nearby areas—walls, ceilings, countertops, appliances—are taped off and covered.
(I’ll be posting photos of this setup to give you a visual soon!)
Degreasing
This is a critical step. I use Krud Kutter with Scotch-Brite pads, which not only remove grease and buildup but also dull the surface slightly to help future coats bond better.
Sanding
Sanding is the most important part of any refinishing job. I use 150-grit Festool sandpaper, which gives me a clean, consistent surface for finishing. This process also creates mechanical adhesion, allowing primers and topcoats to bond properly to the surface for long-lasting durability.
Sealing & Priming
Here’s where the transformation really begins:
I apply a coat of ICRO W-300 catalyzed sealer. This product seals the wood, blocks tannins, and lays the foundation for a smooth finish.
After it cures (about 24 hours), I lightly buff it and apply two coats of ICRO W-416 high-build primer.
The first coat is sanded aggressively with 220-grit paper.
The second coat is sanded using 220-grit SurfPrep pads to achieve a smooth surface.
Painting
Once everything is perfectly smooth, I spray ICRO W-5000 — a high-performance water-based topcoat catalyzed at 10% for strength and chemical resistance. This finish is tough and made to last in high-traffic kitchens.
If a second coat is needed, I sand with 400-grit SurfPrep pads between coats for a flawless, swirl-free finish.
💨 Between each step, I vacuum thoroughly and run an industrial air scrubber with clean filters to minimize dust and fumes. A clean job site = a happy client.
Week Two: Doors & Drawers (In the Shop)
Prep & Hardware Adjustments
Doors and drawers are degreased and scrubbed just like the cabinet boxes.
If the homeowner wants new hardware, I fill the old holes with wood filler before sanding.
If a client chooses to replace their doors instead of refinishing them, this is where I install new custom cabinet doors in the style they prefer.
Sanding & Fine Detail Work
I use a 3x4 SurfPrep sander for precise control on corners and edges. After priming, I inspect every piece for dings or imperfections and fill them with Bondo glazing and spot putty.
To prep for the final coat, I use SurfPrep foam sanding pads instead of paper — they’re gentler and reduce swirl marks.
Paint & Final Touches
Doors and drawers are sprayed with the same ICRO catalyzed finish used on the cabinet boxes. Once cured:
I drill any new hardware holes (if needed).
I prep the doors and drawers for reinstallation.
Why I Use ICRO Coatings
I’ve tested a lot of systems, and ICRO coatings give some of the best results I've ever seen. They're renowned across the industry as one of the top-performing coatings, and professionals all over the country rely on ICRO for its consistency, durability, and smooth finish. Available in both water-based and solvent-based formulas.
I follow the manufacturer’s recommendations carefully to make sure every job meets professional standards.
Thinking About Refinishing Your Cabinets?
In addition to refinishing and door replacements, I also offer soft-close hardware upgrades to give your cabinets a smooth, quiet touch of modern convenience.
If you're ready to take the next step or want to learn more about your options, check out our cabinet refinishing service page for more details, photos, and FAQs
Thanks for reading! I hope this post gave you a clear look at what goes into a quality cabinet refinish. Whether you’re comparing your options or just gathering ideas, it’s worth knowing that refinishing is often more affordable than replacing — and the results can be just as impressive.
Most of my clients are surprised by how much of a transformation we can achieve without the mess, cost, and downtime of a full kitchen renovation.
If you’re in the Dayton area and want a quote — or if you just have questions — feel free to reach out here.
🔨 See more photos in my Before & After Gallery
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Cabinet Refinishing FAQ
How long does it take to refinish kitchen cabinets?
Most jobs take about 10–14 days, depending on kitchen size and number of doors/drawers.
Is refinishing cheaper than replacing cabinets?
Yes — refinishing is a more budget-friendly option and gives a similar finished look.
Will the finish hold up over time?
Absolutely. I use professional-grade ICRO coatings that are durable, chemical-resistant, and made for kitchens.
Can I change hardware during refinishing?
Yes. I can fill old holes and drill new ones for updated pulls and handles.
Do you offer new cabinet doors?
Yes! If you’d like to change the door style, I offer custom cabinet door replacements as part of the refinishing process.