Adding trim to laminate cabinets to create a shaker-style look is an easy and inexpensive way to update your kitchen or bathroom.
You may have seen that I challenged myself to update our blue master bathroom on a strict budget. If not, you can check that post out here.
Flat front laminate cabinet doors are so plain and basic. I decided to add some trim and create a shaker-style look along with copper hardware we used in our kitchen.
Simple trim and paint created dimension for a more elegant and modern look, buying us more time to save on a massive makeover.
How to Add Trim for a Shaker-Style Cabinet Look
Here’s a look at the before.
Super basic. Boring and Blue.
Supplies/Tools:
- wood glue
- clamps
- 1/4″ x 2″ x 3′ plywood strips
- sand paper/palm sander
Step 1
Remove your cabinet doors and give them a thorough cleaning.
Step 2
Sand them down. You can use a sanding block or orbital sander.
Giving them a quick, rough sand will allow the primer and paint to adhere better.
Step 3
Cut your 2″ trim pieces to fit.
I was able to find 2″ pre-cut strips at Home Depot. If your HD doesn’t have them you can buy 1/4″ plywood sheets.
Measure the length of your cabinet door and cut 2 strips to size.
Measure the width of your cabinet door minus your 2″ strips on either side. Try to get as tight a fit as possible so you don’t need to use much wood filler.
Step 4
Using wood glue, attach your 4 pieces of trim to the front of your cabinet door. Use wood clamps while glue is drying (especially if your wood is a little warped/wavy).
Step 5
Use wood filler or trim caulk to fill in your seams.
Step 6
Sand down your wood filler and any rough edges.
Step 7
Paint + Prime!
To see the steps I followed for painting my laminate cabinets, check out my Bathroom Makeover here.
