I applied a water-based enamel to the cabinet frames and it went on smoothly. Looks good. I am now attacking the doors. They are ash and colored a golden-brownish hue with the figure clearly showing. We want to keep the original color and wood figure. I washed them with a Joy solution and wiped them down with mineral spirits as you suggested. Most of the doors are in good shape but a couple of them have some water spots on them, including loss of stain (peeled off). How do I correct this? I assume I can gently sand the damaged areas down and apply a stain, hoping to match the color. Should I use a gel stain over shellac? I recall several years ago taking a door to the shop where the cabs were built and asking for guidance, but they were quite reluctant to part with any info. SWMBO is patiently watching my progress, and I fear a perilous ending if I fail to succeed in a satisfactory manner. Many thanks for all your help!!

hat

@kmealy

Boy, it's hard to say without seeing the damage and maybe even having to do some trials.

 

" I assume I can gently sand the damaged areas down and apply a stain, hoping to match the color. "   ??? Some colors match easily, some do not.   Also depends on how deep the damage is.

 

The sure-fire approach to getting a good result is strip and refinish.    Can you get a match, will it last -- all unknowns without knowing your situation, skill set, and product suite.

4 hours ago, kmealy said:

Boy, it's hard to say without seeing the damage and maybe even having to do some trials. Some colors match easily, some do not.   Also depends on how deep the damage is. The sure-fire approach to getting a good result is strip and refinish. Can you get a match, will it last -- all unknowns without knowing your situation, skill set, and product suite.

I do a lot of woodworking making jewelry boxes and furniture, and I know how to use stains, shellac, and varnish. I was hoping for some insight into the finish schedule typically found on kitchen cabinets and how I might approach repairing the damage. I'll figure it out. Thanks.

hat