If your kitchen is in a serious need for an updated look, yet you have a limited budget to work with, you may think that you need to skip the whole idea.  However, if you are the handy type and enjoys taking on projects around the house you can create a whole new look with a little creativity without having to spend a lot of money.

1. Moldings – Start from the top and work your way around your kitchen.  For instance, by adding a crown molding to the top of your cabinets you can add new dimension to you existing cabinets.  You can opt for a small trim or a molding with an intricate design.  With the right router bits you can turn a simple molding into an intricate architectural design. You may also want to add a chair rail or a medallion flush to the ceiling above your light fixture.  Purchase a router bit set and you will be able to create many different designs to dress up your kitchen.
2. Strip and Paint Cabinets – If your cabinets are made of solid wood than you can easily strip your cabinets of its current color or finish and then paint or stain them with a more up to date color.  This will completely change the look of your kitchen without having to go ahead and purchase a whole new set off cabinets.
3. Backsplash – Even if you are a novice at laying tiles, a backsplash is a project that a real beginner can take on.  Skip laying a really complicated design.  So many people these days choosing these days glass mosaic tiles for their backsplash.  These tiles come on a sheet and can be cut down to the size you need.  Then you simply set it in the grout and  and you are set.  This is by far easier they laying ordinary tiles.  With a new backsplash you are adding a new up to date focal point to your kitchen.
4. Hardware –With new hardware you can update the whole look of your kitchen.  Change the knobs and handles of you cabinets doors and drawers.  Chunky hardware is the look now.  This will give a more modern, sleek design.
5. Sink Faucets – In place of your current three piece sink faucet, install a one piece modernly design faucet.  With smaller things like this, you can change the face of your kitchen.
6. Paint – Repaint the walls of your kitchen.  This is something you may want to have the assistance of an expert to help you choose the right colors.  With new more vibrant tones you can give a dull room a complete face lift adding life to you existing kitchen.  Giving your kitchen a new coat of paint is a real must.
7. Knick-knacks – Shop around at stores such as Home Goods, Pier One etc. There you will find so many decorative pieces that will add new life to your kitchen and to any room around the house.  With a dramatic painting for your wall or a floral centerpiece for your table you can give your kitchen new character.

There are so many ways that you can update your kitchen even on a tight budget.  You need not do all of this at once.  Take it step by step and you will be on your way to a kitchen with a whole new look!