How To Add Molding To Kitchen Cabinets: A Personal Experience

When I first moved into my new home, the kitchen cabinets were functional but lacked any decorative elements. I wanted to add some character to the space without breaking the bank, so I decided to add molding to the cabinets. Here’s what I learned about how to add molding to kitchen cabinets:

Step-By-Step Guide

Step 1: Measure and Plan

Measure the length of each cabinet and determine how much molding you will need. Decide on the style of molding you want and purchase it from your local hardware store.

Step 2: Prep the Cabinets

Remove the cabinet doors and hardware. Sand the surface of the cabinets to ensure that the glue will adhere properly. Fill any gaps or holes with wood filler and let it dry overnight.

Step 3: Install the Molding

Apply wood glue to the back of the molding and press it firmly onto the cabinet. Use clamps to hold the molding in place while the glue dries. Once the glue is dry, use a nail gun to secure the molding to the cabinet.

Step 4: Paint or Stain

Paint or stain the cabinets and molding to match the rest of the kitchen. Allow the paint or stain to dry completely before reassembling the cabinet doors and hardware.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas

Choose a molding style that complements the existing style of your cabinets.
Use a miter saw to cut the molding to the correct length and angle.
Consider using a contrasting color for the molding to make it stand out.
If you don’t have a nail gun, you can use finishing nails and a hammer to attach the molding.
Practice on a scrap piece of wood before attaching the molding to the cabinets.
Use a level to ensure that the molding is straight.
Choose a high-quality wood glue to ensure that the molding stays in place.
Consider adding molding to other areas of your kitchen, such as the refrigerator or pantry doors.
Use painter’s tape to protect the cabinets and walls while painting or staining.
Take your time and be patient – adding molding can be a time-consuming process.

Pros and Cons

Adding molding to kitchen cabinets can be a great way to update the look of your kitchen without spending a lot of money. It can also add value to your home if you’re planning on selling in the future. However, it can be a time-consuming process and requires some DIY skills. Additionally, if you don’t choose the right style of molding, it can clash with the existing style of your kitchen.

Personal Review and Suggestion

Overall, I’m really happy with how my kitchen cabinets turned out after adding molding. It was a bit of a learning curve, but the end result was worth it. My suggestion would be to take your time and practice on a scrap piece of wood before committing to attaching the molding to your cabinets. Additionally, make sure to choose a style of molding that complements your existing kitchen style, and don’t be afraid to add a pop of color or contrast with the molding.

Question & Answer / FAQs

Q: Can I add molding to cabinets that are already painted?

A: Yes, you can add molding to painted cabinets. Just make sure to sand the surface of the cabinets first to ensure that the glue will adhere properly.

Q: How long does it take to add molding to kitchen cabinets?

A: The length of time it takes to add molding to kitchen cabinets depends on the size of your kitchen and your DIY skills. It can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days to complete the project.