Finishing Kitchen Cabinet Interiors

[pcombs]

I am just about to finish a 36" Kitchen cabinet Island and wuld like to use a finish on the interior of the cabinets that will provide good protection while minimizing ordor from like a poly or other oil based varnish. Even when dry, these finishes do not completely odor out, if you know what I mean !!!

I had wanted to line the inside with laminate but then I guess it is time consuming and relatively expensive option and taking into consideration I have used pretty good grade 3/4 ply. If I can go with a finish, the better.

Any suggestions?

[jackellis]

Polyacrylic (water-based poly)? Not exactly cheap but should be easy to apply to the inside, protects well, easy cleanup, no oil fumes.

I can't say I've used it on an inside project yet but I've been real pleased with it for shop fixtures and cabinets.

[JimD]

I have used Polyacrylic from Minwax and been pleased with the result. FWW just reviewed waterborne finishes in the December issue. They rated Hydrocote Resisthane Plus as the "Best Value" and General Finishes High Performance as the Best Overall. They downgraded for Polycrylic for vertical sag and brush application and hardness (it gets harder as it ages) and heat resistance. I have been looking at Resisthane based upon price, it is only $20/gallon (the top rated is $63 and Polycrylic is $43 according to FWW). Supposed to be good brushed or sprayed.

Jim

[cbrown]

I have also used Minwax Polycrillic, 3 coats, for that purpose and been pleased. Since it's water-based, it dries quickly. Easier if you finish before assembling the cabinet, if possible!

--Christopher

[pcombs]

Woodsmith had a very good article about how you can stain using oil-based stain, apply a washcoat of oil-based poly/varnish and then top-coat with water based, offcourse after all the oil stuff has dried.

This ensures you have pieces that have the warmth and luster that oil-based finishing provides, with the easy of use, quick drying and non-ordor advantages of water-based.

Tried it and I must say, I'm converted!!!

[Jeffrey Schronce]

I have been looking at Resisthane based upon price, it is only $20/gallon.

Jim

Have you found sources?