This post tells you how to Briwax cabinets with before and after photos.
Your kitchen is probably where you spend most of your time.
It’s the focal point of your home and should be the first room you renovate in your new home.
Oak cabinets were very popular throughout the 1980s and 90s. They are made of heavy-duty material and create a timeless look. Modern design introduced more colorful cabinetry options over the past couple of decades. However, oak cabinets are making a comeback because of their natural and warm appeal.
If you currently have orange oak cabinets, you definitely want to tone down your orange oak cabinets.
Rather than replacing or painting cabinets, read below for a budget-friendly way to update oak cabinets that will leave you in awe. This will save you money and leave you with a beautiful, functional kitchen.
The best way to update honey oak cabinets is with Briwax. Click here to check it out!
Updating oak cabinets with Briwax will help you achieve an updated look while enhancing the overall appearance of your kitchen cabinets. By applying Briwax, you can easily transform your oak cabinets into a darker color while accentuating the wood grain, giving them a fresh and modern appeal.
Scroll down to see before and after photos for inspiration on how Briwax can completely elevate the aesthetic of oak cabinets and help you avoid a total remodel of your kitchen.
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Why Update Your Oak Cabinets?
Updating your oak cabinets is a cost effective way to remodel your kitchen without spending a lot of money on a complete overhaul. Painting cabinets is a time-consuming project that will cost more money and runs the risk of chipping, cracking or general wear from daily use. Briwax restores your cabinets natural wood while saving both time and money.
Many people are opting to keep oak cabinets because the organic, natural look of wood is both warm and inviting.
Briwax is a great way to make oak kitchen cabinets look modern without paint.
Benefits of Using Briwax
The application of Briwax is the simplest solution to updating oak cabinets, providing a cost-effective method to breathe new life into your space. Briwax is simple and easy to apply. It’s a mix of Beeswax and Carnauba waxes.
All you need are a few basic materials to apply it. Briwax is the easiest way to achieve a darker color and enhance the wood grain of your cabinets, transforming them from outdated to modern.
I’m convinced you’ll love it so much that you’ll not only be updating your kitchen cabinets, but your bathroom vanities. And any other oak cabinetry in your home such as your kitchen dining room pantry, hutch and antique finds. Get yours here!
Choosing the Right Briwax Shade
The great news is that Briwax comes in many different shades, including liming wax. Consider the existing decor in your kitchen and bathroom and the appearance you want to achieve.
A darker color from the Briwax collection can provide a modern, updated look to your oak kitchen cabinets. Assess the overall look of the space and aim for a shade that complements the wood grain while adding depth and richness to the cabinets.
As you’re looking over the different Briwax shades, envision the transformation you want for your kitchen updates. The great way to ensure success in updating oak cabinets with Briwax is to carefully consider the impact of the chosen shade on the wood cabinets and the surrounding space.
Before applying your chosen shade to the cabinets, try a sample on any extra pieces of oak or a small, hidden area of your cabinetry such as the inside of the cabinet door.
Preparing Your Cabinets for Briwax
- Ensure the cabinets are completely dry before proceeding to the next steps, as Briwax adheres best to a clean, dry surface.
- If the wood grain of your cabinets feels rough, consider lightly sanding the surface with fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out any imperfections.
- For a more enhanced adherence of the Briwax, you can use steel wool to gently buff the surface of the cabinets, promoting better penetration of the product.
- Remove any cabinet hardware and hinges, and take off the cabinet doors if possible, to make the application process more manageable and ensure complete coverage. (I admittedly skipped this step because I was too excited to see the final look!)
Materials Needed
When updating your oak kitchen cabinets, you will need:
- Steel Wool: Use steel wool to apply the Briwax. Not only does this help the Briwax adhere effectively, but it helps ensure a smooth and polished finish.
- Briwax: The wax formulation is a little bit like toothpaste, not too thick but not overly runny. It shouldn’t be stored above 65 degrees or it may liquify.
- Gloves: You will want to wear these to protect your skin.
- Soft Cloth: You’ll use this to buff the wax and remove any excess after you apply it with steel wool.
By gathering these materials, you are well on your way to achieving a remarkable transformation for your kitchen and bathroom with updated oak cabinets.
Applying Briwax: Step-by-Step
- Using steel wool, gently wipe the surface of the cabinets in the direction of the wood grain for an even application.
- Allow the Briwax to dry for approximately 5-10 minutes, and then buff the cabinets with a soft, clean cloth to remove any excess wax.
- For a darker color or more pronounced wood grain, apply a second coat of Briwax and repeat the drying and buffing process.
- Inspect the cabinets for any missed spots or uneven application, and touch up as needed for a consistent finish.
Before and After: The Transformation
The transformation of honey oak cabinets to a darker color with enhanced wood grain is truly remarkable. I couldn’t stop looking at the transformation!
As you can see, the cabinets look revitalized and modern, completely refreshing the overall look of the space. Your cabinets will go from looking dry and thirsty to vibrant and rich.
I couldn’t believe how little effort and how massive of a transformation could come from Briwax. The color I used is called Tudor Brown. Get yours here!
This kitchen renovation is a work in progress. Follow along on social media for continual updates on the full kitchen remodel!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the crucial step of adequately preparing your cabinets before applying Briwax can result in an uneven finish and poor adhesion. Some claim that you don’t need to clean your cabinets before apply Briwax. Do yourself a favor and thoroughly clean the grime off your cabinets before application.
- Applying Briwax too thickly can cause the finish to become sticky and attract dust and dirt, so remember that a little goes a long way and apply it in THIN, even layers.
- Overlooking the importance of proper ventilation during the application process can lead to strong fumes and discomfort. Ensure good airflow in the workspace when working with Briwax. THIS IS SO IMPORTANT!
- Neglecting to buff the Briwax after application can result in a tacky and uneven finish. Put some muscle into it and take the time to buff the cabinets to achieve a smooth and consistent appearance.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure a successful transformation of your oak cabinets with Briwax, achieving the updated and enhanced look you desire.
AFTER photo is top cabinet.
Maintaining Your Updated Cabinets
To keep your cabinets looking their best, regular cleaning is key. Simply wipe them down with a soft, damp cloth to remove any dust or spills. This straightforward maintenance routine will help preserve the beautiful darker color and enhanced wood grain achieved with the Briwax.
For any minor wear and tear, touch-up with the same Briwax shade used during the initial update. Gently apply the Briwax to the affected areas, blending it in carefully to seamlessly restore the cabinet’s appearance.
This simple maintenance tip will ensure that your cabinets maintain their updated and modernized look effectively.
Design Tips for Updated Cabinets
A classic, clean design can create a beautiful contrast against the darker color of the cabinets.
Open shelving is a great way to showcase your updated cabinets while also providing additional storage and a more open, airy feel to the kitchen. You can use open shelves to display decorative items or everyday dishware.
Consider adding new hardware for the cabinet doors and drawers. This simple solution can make a significant impact, giving your cabinets a fresh and updated appearance.
Choose hardware that complements the new look of your cabinets and coordinates with the overall style of your kitchen, tying the design together seamlessly.
Personally, I’m loving my black handles. You can get the same handle pulls here and cup pulls here.
Another great option is complementing your oak cabinets with brass hardware. Click here for the best budget-friendly brass hardware.
Additional Kitchen Updates
New countertops can seamlessly complement your updated oak cabinets. If you have a little more in your budget, consider a quartz or granite.
Paint the walls white or a shade of off-white, such as Sherwin-Williams pure white, to make your space feel airy, modern, open and inviting.
Pairing your updated oak cabinets with white subway tile can create a timeless and fresh aesthetic. Subway tile is one of the most cost-effective tiles with easy application. The classic appeal of white subway tile effortlessly complements the warmth of wood cabinets while adding a clean, bright look to your kitchen.
Bonus tip: Consider tiling an entire wall to create a stunning focal point.
Add gold sconces and wall mirrors to create an elegant and spacious look.
By incorporating these additional updates, such as new countertops, open shelving, and cabinet hardware, you can achieve a cohesive and modern look for your kitchen that beautifully complements your updated oak cabinets.
Make your next kitchen your best kitchen with Briwax! Click here for Briwax!
Be sure to come back and share your experience! We want to hear how you’re revitalizing your oak cabinets and modernizing your kitchen on a budget.
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