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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
Entertainment
Phoebe Barton

Woman transforms 'dated' kitchen for £76 using bargains from B&Q

A new kitchen can cost thousands of pounds, but one woman in Northampton has managed to transform hers for £76.

Carol Fortescue, 73, has renovated her “dated” kitchen herself using supplies from B&Q to keep costs low. As reported by LatestDeals.co.uk, Carol told money-saving Facebook Group DIY On A Budget: "It started off when I was helping a friend decorate their static caravan.

“They wanted to change the dark woodwork, so we asked advice from the paint department at B&Q and they suggested the V33 cupboard paint. I was so impressed with the result that a year later I decided to have a go at my dated kitchen cupboards.

READ MORE: Mum transforms kitchen floor for under £50 using eBay stencil and paint

“It took me three and a half weeks to complete and I did a section at a time as I had 16 cupboards and 10 drawers to paint. I took the doors off, washed them down with sugar soap, then lightly sanded them down with very fine sandpaper. I wiped them off with a damp cloth, using a small sponge roller and a round brush for the grooves.

“The first coat then goes on but you can see through it. There is a primer in this paint, and the beauty of it is that an hour later it’s dry and you can do the second coat. This is when you see the difference.”

Carol's kitchen cupboards before the transformation. (LatestDeals.co.uk)

In total, Carol did three coats on the front and back of the cupboards. She continued: “You're looking at £3,000 upwards for a complete new kitchen, which at my age is unaffordable, so at £76 for the paint and a bit of time and effort, it was well worth it.

“I have to say, I was very scared when I started in case it didn’t turn out ok, but take your time with the preparation. It really is quite easy to do and it’s hard wearing, so for people with children and animals, the cupboards just need a quick wipe over with a damp cloth.

“The total cost was £76 for two tubs although I have half a tub left over. I am so pleased with the result, it was really worth it and it looks like a new kitchen. I am 73 years old so if I can do it, anybody can!”

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