How to Make Kitchen Cabinet Doors into Shaker Style: A DIY Guide
Shaker style cabinets are a popular choice for many homeowners due to their simple, clean lines and timeless appeal. If you have basic kitchen cabinet doors and want to give them a stylish upgrade, transforming them into Shaker style is a great option. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to achieve this classic look for your kitchen cabinets.
Materials Needed:
- Existing kitchen cabinet doors
- Molding strips
- Measuring tape
- Sandpaper
- Wood glue
- Nail gun or hammer and finishing nails
- Saw
- Paint or stain
- Paintbrush or stain applicator
Step 1: Remove Cabinet Doors
Start by removing the cabinet doors from the hinges and lay them on a flat surface. This will make it easier to work on them and ensure a smooth transformation process.
Step 2: Measure and Cut Molding Strips
Measure the dimensions of your cabinet doors and cut the molding strips to fit around the edges of the doors. The strips will create the signature Shaker style look with their clean and defined borders.
Step 3: Sand the Cabinet Doors
Use sandpaper to smooth out the surface of the cabinet doors. This step is crucial to ensure that the paint or stain adheres properly and gives a professional finish to your Shaker style doors.

Credit: cherishedbliss.com
Step 4: Attach Molding Strips
Apply wood glue along the back of the molding strips and carefully attach them to the edges of the cabinet doors. Secure the strips in place using a nail gun or hammer and finishing nails for added stability.
Step 5: Fill Nail Holes and Sand
Fill any nail holes with wood filler and sand them down once dry. This will create a seamless surface for painting or staining, giving your cabinet doors a polished and uniform appearance.
Step 6: Prime and Paint/Stain
Apply a coat of primer to the cabinet doors to ensure better adhesion of the paint or stain. Once the primer is dry, paint or stain the doors in your desired color, making sure to cover the molding strips evenly for a cohesive look.
Step 7: Reattach Cabinet Doors
Once the paint or stain is completely dry, reattach the cabinet doors to the hinges. Take a step back and admire your newly transformed Shaker style cabinet doors that have added a touch of elegance to your kitchen.

Credit: farmhouseishblog.com
Benefits of Shaker Style Cabinets
Shaker style cabinets offer a range of benefits that make them a popular choice for kitchen remodels. They provide a classic and versatile look that can complement various design styles, from traditional to modern. The clean lines and minimalistic design of Shaker cabinets create a sense of openness and sophistication in any kitchen space.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Make Kitchen Cabinet Doors Into Shaker Style?
Yes, you can easily transform your kitchen cabinet doors into the popular shaker style. It’s a simple and cost-effective DIY project that can give your kitchen a whole new look.
What Is The Process Of Making Kitchen Cabinet Doors Into Shaker Style?
To make your kitchen cabinet doors into shaker style, you will need to remove any existing moldings, fill any holes or gaps, sand the doors to create a smooth surface, and then apply shaker-style trim to the doors using adhesive and nails.
Finally, you can paint or stain the doors to match your desired look.
What Tools Are Needed To Convert Kitchen Cabinet Doors Into Shaker Style?
You will need a few basic tools for this project, including a saw to cut the shaker-style trim, a drill to attach the trim to the doors, sandpaper to sand the doors, a tape measure for accurate measurements, and a paintbrush or roller for the finishing touches.
Can I Customize The Shaker Style For My Kitchen Cabinet Doors?
Absolutely! One of the great things about converting your kitchen cabinet doors into shaker style is that you can customize it to suit your personal taste. You can choose the type of wood for the shaker-style trim, the color or stain for the doors, and even add additional decorative elements if desired.
Conclusion
Transforming your kitchen cabinet doors into Shaker style is a simple and cost-effective way to elevate the look of your kitchen. By following the steps outlined in this guide and using basic materials, you can achieve a timeless and elegant design that will enhance the overall aesthetic of your kitchen. Bring a touch of classic charm to your home with Shaker style cabinets!