Replies

1. 
   toolszeke | Jan 04, 2007 05:22am | #1

   In my message I neglected to mention that the cabinets are made from maple

   jack

2. 
   peter28 | Jan 05, 2007 06:41pm | #2

   Jack,

   This an interesting question. If you don't want to paint, the next choice is to use a heavily pigmented off white stain or glaze. I would check local suppliers like Sherwin Williams or Benjamin Moore to see if they have anything that would fit the bill. Also check out The Old Fashioned Milk Paint Company for white milk paint.

   If you've never used milk paint a word to the wise; make a number of samples to get the hang of it. Once you've built up a few coats you can rub it back with a scotch pad to polish it and get an interesting surface.

   To finish the surface one of the water soluble urethane's would be suggested. I know there are a number of brands. I'm sorry I can't be specific about which one though. I don't use them on a regular basis.

   I have a question. Why don't you want to paint it? You could put a clear coating over the paint if that is the effect you are looking for. Just curious.

   Peter Gedrys

1. 
   toolszeke | Jan 06, 2007 08:34pm | #3

   Peter

   Thank you for your response.  The reason I was shying away from paint was my concern that chipping would occur.  Would the clearcoat diminish the chipping if it were applied over the paint.  It would certainly would be easier to spray on the paint and clearcoat.

   Thanks again

   Jack

1. 
   peter28 | Jan 06, 2007 09:11pm | #4

   Jack,

   The way paints are formulated, it's pretty hard to chip them. The surface would need to see some fairly significant abuse for that to happen.

   Concerning spraying the paint; it is much more viscous than the urethane top coat so you will need to have the proper tips for each. If you've never done it before (paint), do yourself a big favor and spray some practice panels first. If you haven't assembled it yet the interior plywood surfaces might serve the purpose.

   When spraying a water soluble topcoat, be sure and scuff or lightly sand the paint first to provide tooth. Also, be sure and clean your gun thoroughly upon completion. The clear coat will provide a some wear resistance for the paint. I always like to think about future maintenance and the question I would ask is what would be easier to fix? Paint by itself is the easiest. If you do decide to clear coat, read the directions on repairability. There are usually phone numbers on cans for the purpose of technical information. Check with the manufacturer and ask about the nuances of their product. Weigh the pros and cons and let that guide your decision.

   Good luck,

   Peter

1. 
   toolszeke | Jan 07, 2007 12:06am | #5

   Peter thanks for your advise.  I trust your judgement. I haven't assembled the door panel or the frames.  I have sprayed the interior of the boxes with a urethane.  I will let you know how I make out.  I put a lot of work into these cabinets and didn't want to mess them up.  Thanks again

   Jack