How to Make Metal Kitchen Cabinets Look Like Wood

Transforming the look of metal kitchen cabinets can be achieved through creative DIY techniques that give them the appearance of real wood. With some strategic planning, the right materials, and a bit of elbow grease, it’s possible to alter metal cabinetry so that it takes on the aesthetic qualities of high-end wooden cabinetry. Follow this guide to change the look of metal cabinets to resemble wood grain patterns and colors.

Prep the Metal Cabinets for Painting or Staining

Proper preparation is key to achieving an attractive faux wood finish on metal cabinets. Here are the steps to take:

• Clean the cabinet surfaces thoroughly with a degreasing agent to remove any oils or residue. Trisodium phosphate (TSP) cleaner works very well for this purpose. Rinse with clean water and allow to fully dry.
• Sand the metal lightly with 120-150 grit sandpaper to scuff up the surface. This helps paint and stain better adhere to the slick metal material.
• Wipe away all sanding dust with a tack cloth. Make sure the cabinets are pristine before painting or staining.
• Apply 2-3 coats of quality metal primer to create a binding layer between the metal and your faux finish. Allow proper drying time between coats.

Pro tip: For added protection, coat the insides of the cabinets with rust resistant enamel paint before installing any shelves or drawers.

Faux Wood Paint Techniques for Metal Cabinets

Here are some simple faux painting techniques to make metal cabinets look convincingly like real wood:

Sponging

• Select 1-3 brownish paint colors that resemble different wood tones and shades. Many specialty faux finish paint brands have colors made specifically for the look of wood.
• Dip a natural sea sponge into the paint and dab it onto the primed cabinet surface in random patterns. Overlap the colors to mimic wood grain.
• While paint is still wet, use a rag to gently rub and distress the sponged on color. This creates natural variations.
• Apply several layers of sponged paint to build up an organic, multi-toned wood effect. Seal with a clear matte varnish.

Ragging

• For a rustic wood look, use rags or burlap fabric dipped into paint to apply color. Scrunch and twist the material to create texture.
• Focus on applying paint in a linear direction with wood-like grain. Distress and blend the edges to soften lines.
• Layer neutral undertones with brown overtones in a varied combination. Seal with matte polyurethane.

Brushing

• Use a chip brush to freehand thick lines of paint to mimic reclaimed barn wood.
• Alternate the brush directions to intersect grains. Distress and rub edges before drying.
• Add visual interest by accenting with darker knots and cracks using a small detail brush.

Faux Wood Stain Techniques for Metal Cabinets

For a natural stained wood look, use these easy faux staining techniques:

Staining with Old Rags

• Gather several old rags, the more worn and frayed the better. Cut or tear into strips.
• Scrunch and roll pieces of the rags, then dip into wood stain color(s).
• Haphazardly rub the stained rag pieces over the cabinet surface to deposit color in a random aged pattern.

Crumpled Paper Staining

• For a heavily grained look, crumple up paper bags or newsprint into balls.
• Dip and roll the paper in stain, then rub onto the metal cabinets, pressing firmly to transfer pigment.
• Use an old toothbrush dipped in stain to flick onto the surface, accenting the “wood grain” look.

Color Washing

• Thin some gel stain with water and apply liberally with a rag or sponge.
• Immediately wipe most of it away, leaving traces of color in recesses to replicate aged wood.
• Repeat layers in lighter and darker shades for a dynamic look.

No matter which faux finish technique you choose, take your time applying multiple layers to build up the look of genuine wood. Finishing with matte polyurethane or paste wax will help seal and protect the new faux wood finish. With some creativity and the right approach, it’s definitely possible to convert the ordinary look of metal kitchen cabinets into extraordinary faux wood cabinetry.

Frequently Asked Questions About Faux Wood Finishes for Metal Kitchen Cabinets

Can I use regular acrylic paint to make metal cabinets look like wood?

Yes, acrylic craft paints work fine for faux wood finishes on metal. Opt for matte or satin finish paints, which look more realistic than glossy paints. Make sure to use proper priming and preparation methods for the paint to adhere properly.

What are the best colors for a faux wood stained look?

For faux wood staining, use gel stains in natural wood tones like oak, walnut, mahogany, etc. Layer different shades like chocolate, cinnamon, chestnut, ebony to add depth. Avoid primary colors or anything too vibrant. Soft neutral earth tones work best.

How do I get an aged, weathered wood look?

In addition to using textured application techniques like rag rolling, crumpled paper staining, or sponging, you can distress and age the finish after it’s dry. Use fine grit sandpaper to rub edges and create worn spots. Apply glaze or dark wax in crevices for an aged look.

What sheen of clear coat should I use for faux wood cabinets?

Matte, satin, or low gloss clear finishes are best for maintaining a realistic wood look. High gloss varnish will make the finish look too uniform and slick. Use matte or satin water-based polyurethane or paste wax to seal and protect the finish.

How soon can I install hardware after painting faux wood cabinets?

Allow the paint or stain to fully cure for at least 72 hours before installing handles and other hardware. Test for tackiness by gently touching a coated area. Hardware holes can compromise a soft coating. Taking your time allows for proper hardening.

Conclusion

The beauty of real wood doesn’t have to come at a high cost. With clever faux finishing techniques, outdated metal kitchen cabinets can be aesthetically transformed to mimic wood’s organic grain patterns, textures, and coloring. Proper preparation, the right materials and tools, and careful application of layered effects will result in stunning cabinets with the elegant look of natural wood. A custom faux wood makeover offers an affordable solution to reinvigorate your kitchen decor.