How can we effectively conceal a hole in our kitchen panel without it being noticeable or having to resort to painting it?
Asked by Apolo Lima 
5 months ago
Last Updated: June 26, 2024
So, there’s this panel here that’s the same size as a hole behind it. It’s made of the same material as our kitchen cabinets and has screw holes from a shelf the old owners had. We’re stumped on how to fix or hide it without it looking obvious. Using new timber to fill the hole will definitely stand out with a different color. Any ideas on what we could do? Do you think painting it could work?
You can try to match the stain closely yourself, or take it to experts for the right mix. I personally have tried it and would recommend giving it a shot.
In my opinion, the best approach would be to remove the panel, replace the wood behind it with new wood that matches the rest of the kitchen, and use the same wood to develop the right stain tint gradually. This method is commonly used.
Since the majority of the surface is between the windows, the window line will help blend the contrast, making it difficult to notice any slight differences in the stain.
Good luck with the project, it is definitely achievable. 🙂
Thank you Collin. Unfortunately, there’s a hole the same size as the panel there. We believe there used to be a cabinet attached to it that went over the countertop (very old-school), which complicates things a bit.
I know about the gap. That’s why I plan to remove all those boards on that part of the wall and start fresh with new full-width boards… it’s roughly 30″ wide on that wall, right? or something like that.
Does this plan make sense? Like, take off the window trim around that area, get rid of the large gray panel, then remove each of the wooden panels behind it to reveal the framed wall… and go from there. (Was it also drywalled under the wood? if so, we should re-drywall that section too)
Yeah I agree that taking down those boards is the way to go.
I’m pretty sure you can find some wood putty in gray at the hardware store nearby. Then, you can grab a small paintbrush from the kids’ crafting set and carefully draw in the darker lines to match.
Why not showcase it instead of hiding it, Fiona? Grab a piece of tempered hardboard and add some molding to create a frame. Fill the frame with a patterned wallpaper or a peel-and-stick mural to make it a focal point in the room. You could also paint the hardboard, add a decal with a catchy saying, or use “chalkboard” wallpaper for a creative touch. When you can’t hide it – HIGHLIGHT IT 🙂
Nathan’s ideas are fantastic. Thanks!