Chic Tricks to Refresh Your Kitchen Cabinets for Pennies
If your kitchen cabinets are looking a bit dull and dated, we have some simple yet chic tricks to give them a quick makeover on a budget. Lining your cabinets with different materials is an easy way to upgrade their style while also keeping contents organized and protected.
We'll also share pro tips for measuring, cutting, and installing cabinet liners to get a custom fit.
Materials to Consider for Cabinet Liners
Aluminum Foil
Aluminum foil is one of the most inexpensive and readily available lining options. While it may seem unexpected, the reflective surface helps bounce light around inside dark cabinets. Foil is also very easy to install, as you can use double-sided tape to adhere it or simply mold pieces to fit.
The one downside is that aluminum foil can tear easily and will need frequent replacing. But the cost and convenience make it a solid pick for a short-term upgrade.
Plastic Placemats or Shelf Liners
For a more durable option than foil, recyclable vinyl placemats make excellent cabinet liners. The waterproof plastic material is easy to cut to size and wipes clean with a damp cloth. There are also many pattern and color choices available to suit your style.
The ribbed shelf liner sold in hardware stores also works well. Just keep in mind that the textured surface has a tendency to trap small crumbs and debris that can be tricky to clean.
Gift Wrapping Paper or Wallpaper Scraps
If you want to add some flair, use glossy gift wrapping paper or leftover wallpaper scraps. What better way to camouflage nicks and wear than with a vibrant pattern? And you can easily swap out designs whenever the mood strikes by simply replacing the paper.
Just be aware that paper tends to absorb moisture and stains faster. But the upshot is that you can replace it affordably year after year.
Tips for Measuring and Cutting Liners
Getting a tailored fit is important for your new cabinet liners to look seamless. Here are some top tips:
- Carefully measure the height, depth, width and side edging of shelves
- Transfer exact dimensions to your material before cutting to size
- Use removable double-sided tape on the backs allow you to gently reposition
- Change up lining materials easily whenever you redecorate
Installing Cabinet Liners
Preparation
To prep your shelves for installing liner:
- Wipe down shelves thoroughly with all-purpose cleaner
- Ensure surfaces are completely dry so adhesive sticks tight
Application
To apply liner materials:
- Peel off backing and smooth onto shelf, pressing firmly
- Use removable velcro dots on liner backs for easy removal
- Take care smoothing around corners and edges
- Plan to replace lining paper annually for clean look
Creative Uses for Lined Cabinets
Beyond just protecting shelves from wear and spills, creative liner uses include:
- Lining a craft cabinet with colorful patterned paper
- Using blackboard liner and chalk to label spice jars
- Creating an eclectic but cohesive look with wallpaper remnants
Updating your kitchen cabinets by adding custom-cut liners is an afternoon project with dramatic visual impact. Not only do liners protect and conceal existing damage, but they also infuse personality and style.
We hope these chic yet penny-pinching ideas have inspired you to give your kitchen a quick mini makeover. With some careful measurements and adhesive materials, you can easily upgrade your cabinets' look each season.