How To Update A China Cabinet: My Personal Experience

When I inherited my grandmother’s china cabinet, I knew I wanted to keep it but also update it to fit my personal style. After researching different options, I found some great ideas for updating a china cabinet that I want to share with you.

Step-By-Step Guide

Step 1: Clean and Sand

The first step to updating a china cabinet is to thoroughly clean it, especially if it has been in storage or passed down through generations. Once it is clean, lightly sand the surface to prepare it for painting or staining.

Step 2: Paint or Stain

One of the easiest ways to update a china cabinet is to paint or stain it. Choose a color or finish that matches your decor style. For a modern look, consider a bold color like navy or black. For a farmhouse or rustic style, a distressed white or natural wood stain would work well.

Step 3: Replace Hardware

Replacing the hardware on your china cabinet can make a big difference in its appearance. Choose hardware that matches the new finish or style of the cabinet. For a modern look, consider sleek metal handles. For a vintage look, choose antique brass or glass knobs.

Step 4: Add Lighting

Adding lighting to your china cabinet can make it the focal point of your room. Consider adding LED strip lighting or a small lamp inside the cabinet to highlight your favorite pieces.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas

Here are some additional ideas and tips for updating a china cabinet:

1. Remove the glass doors for an open shelving look.
2. Line the shelves with patterned contact paper or wallpaper.
3. Add decorative molding or trim to the cabinet for a custom look.
4. Paint the interior of the cabinet a contrasting color for added interest.
5. Use the cabinet to display items other than china, such as books or collectibles.
6. Use a stencil or decal to add a pattern or design to the cabinet.
7. Add glass shelves for a more modern look.
8. Use the cabinet as a bar or liquor cabinet by adding a mirror and glassware.
9. Paint the cabinet a high-gloss finish for a dramatic look.
10. Add decorative feet or legs to elevate the cabinet off the ground.

Pros and Cons

While updating a china cabinet can be a fun and rewarding project, there are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros

• A updated china cabinet can add personality and style to a room.
• Updating a family heirloom can help preserve its history while making it functional for modern use.
• It can be a cost-effective way to update your decor without buying new furniture.

Cons

• It can be time-consuming and require some DIY skills.
• Painting or staining a valuable antique can decrease its value.
• It may not fit in with the style of your home or decor.

My Personal Review and Suggestion

After updating my grandmother’s china cabinet, I am thrilled with the results. I chose a distressed white finish and added new hardware, and it looks like a completely different piece of furniture. I also added LED lighting inside the cabinet, which makes it a beautiful focal point in my dining room.

Question & Answer and FAQs

Q: Can I update a china cabinet without painting or staining it?

A: Yes, there are other ways to update a china cabinet, such as adding new hardware, lighting, or decorative molding. You can also remove the glass doors or add glass shelves for a modern look.

Q: What kind of paint should I use to update my china cabinet?

A: It depends on the material of your cabinet and the look you are going for. For wood cabinets, a latex or oil-based paint would work well. For metal or laminate cabinets, use a spray paint specifically designed for those materials.

Q: Can I update a china cabinet myself, or do I need to hire a professional?

A: It is possible to update a china cabinet yourself with some basic DIY skills. However, if you are unsure or uncomfortable with the process, it may be best to hire a professional to ensure the job is done correctly.