Easy Woodworking Project – Log Cabin Kitchen Face-Lift

The log cabin is an essential part of American mythos. Many Americans dream of owning one as a weekend getaway. But, if you do, maintenance goes with it. According to an online article by Ryan Henderson, the part of the cabin most likely in need of repair is the kitchen. Giving a log cabin kitchen a face-lift is an easy woodworking project involving sanding and painting the cupboards and drawers, cleaning the hardware, lining the interiors of the cabinets, and fixing the countertop.

To repair the cupboards and drawers, first take them to the workshop or outside. Then sand them with 120-grit sandpaper. The paint should act as an undercoating for you, so you will not need to sand down to the bare wood. The main purpose of sanding is to get rid of the dirt and grime that has accumulated over the years. After sanding, you will be ready to paint the items. You should select a color that compliments the rest of the kitchen. First choosing a color for the countertop and then choosing a complimentary color for the cupboards and drawers may be a good idea.

After removing the hardware from the cupboards and drawers, they should be cleaned and either put back on or saved for another project. Do not just throw them away. They can be cleaned with silver or brass cleaner, depending on what material they are. Paint thinner is another alternative for cleaning. If you find that you want new hardware for the kitchen, keep the old cleaned hardware for a future project.

If the interiors of the cabinets are in good condition, you may simply line them with fresh shelf paper or vinyl wall paper. Wall paper is a low cost alternative if you have a large amount of cabinet space.

The countertop will probably need to be replaced or at least recovered. Definitely replace the countertop if you find cracks in the wood, as this is a breeding ground for bacteria. There are many new countertops available which will fit in well with your kitchen. If the wood is in good condition, you may remove the decorative surface and replace it with a laminate, butcher-block, rustic ceramic, or other style.

By refinishing the cupboards and drawers, polishing the handles, putting fresh paper inside the cabinets, and repairing the countertop, you will have restored the kitchen of your log cabin and completed an easy woodworking task. Then you will have a home in the wilderness to be proud of.