1. We can yank out all the old cabinets and buy all new ones. (More on this,
later.)

2. We can keep the old cabinets, but strip them (and the doors) down and
refinish or repaint them, fit them with new hardware, and so change the
color and look of the kitchen.

3. We can do one of those hack jobs, where we replace the doors and fronts
with new faces.  I've seen this turn out surprisingly well in some homes.
Every cabinet face and end must be measured, and doors must fit the style as
well as the overall size of the cabinets you have.  Pay special attention to
hinges and how the doors will open.

Stripping and refinishing is usually the least expensive option, but only if
we're careful in how much we spend on paints, stains and finishes, as well
as any new hardware.  If we choose to replace handles and hinges, we must be
very careful to try and match sizes and drill holes.  Or get ready to fill
lots of holes.  And also be careful about how much you spend on new
hardware.  (www.ahturf.com, mentioned below, sells this kind of stuff at
wholesale.)  Compare prices and options carefully.  A few hours of research
can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars, and days of unnecessary
work covering up mistakes.

If you opt for new cabinets, because the old ones just don't get the job
done, or because you're changing the whole kitchen space, walls, etc. then
take the opportunity to select the storage and utility items you really
want.  And make sure you get pieces that will fit the space you have
available.

How to Prepare for new Cabinets:

Before you begin ordering cabinets, stop and make a list of the things your
old kitchen was missing, such as a lazy-susan or tall pantry rack.  What
about nice items you've noticed in other kitchens?  Do you want a bigger
sink, a marble-like counter top, or are you installing a wider range?

Make sure you know the exact sizes of the cabinets you will want to order
(either custom cabinets or factory-made).  Start by measuring the entire
kitchen area, noting the placement of each object and obstacle.   Make a
rough sketch of the kitchen.  Include everything.  If necessary, make a
couple of drawings, so you can include all the important measurements.

For free help with measuring and sketching, visit:
http://www.ah-tips.com/cabinets/install1.htm

Popular Cabinet Hardware at Wholesale Prices!

Q: Where can I find the world's best selection of decorative hardware for
kitchen cabinets?

A: You can find famous brands like Shaub, Amerock, Belwith-Keeler, Hamilton
Decorative, Acorn, Ashley-Norton and more, plus Blum, and other popular
cabinet suppliers at A&H Turf & Specialties.

visit the site: http://www.ahturf.com

A few places to start look for kitchen cabinet solutions:

http://www.ahturf.com

http://www.superkitchens.com/

http://www.cabinetrydirect.com/

http://www.budgetkitchencabinets.com/

http://www.directkitchensource.com/

You will find that the internet has become a great source of valuable and
useful help.  Use it to the fullest.

Find carpenters, plumbers in your area.

Find decorative hardware, appliances, lighting, flooring, wall papers and
paints and decorations.

Find cabinet makers (local or regional), windows, doors, ventilation
systems, hoods, and just about anything else you can imagine -- all on the
internet.