Instantly Modernize Your Kitchen Island with Shiplap

Is your kitchen island looking drab and outdated? Installing rustic shiplap can instantly modernize it and add charming farmhouse style to your cook space. Shiplap refers to wooden boards with grooves that allow them to overlap tightly, hiding seams while providing visual interest. With some simple DIY skills, you can use shiplap to give your tired kitchen island a makeover.

You'll learn how to plan the project, prep and install the boards, and add stylish finishing touches. We'll also share tips on how to decorate your shiplap island. Let's get started transforming your outdated kitchen island into a warm, modern focal point!

Planning Your Shiplap Kitchen Island Project

Careful planning ensures your shiplap installation goes smoothly. Start by determining the scope of your project and selecting the right boards before gathering supplies.

Determine the Scope

Decide if you'll install shiplap on just the front facade of your island or do a full wrap covering all sides. Measure to determine how much shiplap you need. Account for edges, corners, and a little overage in your measurements.

Select Your Shiplap Boards

You can use real tongue and groove boards or cheaper faux shiplap made from plywood cut into planks. Pine and cedar are popular shiplap woods. Choose a width between 4-6 inches based on your preference. Buy 10-15% extra to allow for mistakes.

Gather Supplies

For installation, you'll need a nail gun, nails, caulk, wood putty, safety gear, and primer, paint or stain. Get all supplies before starting for a smooth workflow.

Preparing the Island Surface

To ensure the shiplap adheres properly, the island surface must be smooth and clean. Here's how to prep it:

Remove Existing Finishes

Eliminate any laminates, veneers or coatings on your island. Sand down glossy areas. Fill any imperfections with wood filler.

Create a Smooth Surface

Thoroughly sand the entire surface with increasingly finer grit sandpaper until smooth. Clean away dust before installing shiplap.

Installing the Shiplap Boards

Now comes the fun part! Follow these steps to affix your shiplap boards:

Measure Precisely and Cut Boards

Use a guide to ensure straight cuts. Leave small gaps between boards for expansion. Test fit before permanently attaching.

Attach Boards to Island

Use a nail gun to affix through the tongue, predrilling to avoid splits. Work outward from vertical edges for a pro look.

Fill Gaps and Imperfections

Fill any cracks between boards with caulk/putty. Sand until smooth when dry.

Finishing Touches

The final priming and painting or staining truly completes your shiplap island transformation:

Prepare and Apply Primer

Lightly sand, then use an interior primer made for your shiplap wood. Allow to fully dry before painting.

Add Color With Paint or Stain

Paint provides consistent, bold color. Stain highlights the natural wood grain. Protect with polyurethane when done.

Once installed, your shiplap island becomes a warm, eye-catching focal point. Here are some tips for decorating your chic new island:

• Add pendant lights over the island to highlight the shiplap's texture.
• Incorporate white or navy kitchen accents to let the wood tones pop.
• Display decorative bowls, vases and cutting boards on open shelving.
• Pair with barstools featuring rattan or wooden seats for an organic look.

You can use some simple skills to transform your kitchen island. Following this guide will help you upgrade your cook space with beautiful, rustic shiplap that looks like it came straight from a designer kitchen. Your outdated island will become a warm gathering place you can't help but show off.