Furniture, Wood and Cabinetry Finishing - kitchen cabinets: kilz, paint, stain and poly?

I experimented painting 2 of my kitchen cabinets but did not like the result.The cabinets are the dark walnut color and I wanted to lighten my kitchen. I started out washing them with TSP, then applied a coat of kilz and then a single coat of latex semi gloss white. Since I did not like the look or want solid white cabinets, I experimented by then brushing on a pine colored oil based stain. I like the result, but have the following questions.
1. Is this process ok?
2. Do I need to brush on a coat of poly?
3. Can I get the same result just applying the pine stain over the kilz? (It is the white pigmented kilz)
Thank you
Debbi

Debbie:

The only thing I would have done differently would have been to sand the original cabinet finish (after cleaning), then apply the KILZ. This gives the primer better adhesion.

There's nothing wrong with the method you described, however.

I would suggest doing the rest of the cabinets in the same manner, including the coat of latex. All whites are NOT the same - Kilz is as close to a pure white as you'll get. Most commercial paints, including the ones labeled white, are not a PURE white - it may not make a difference in the final result, but since you already have the paint and it's only one more step, why change now?

As for a top coat, I don't think it's necessary. If you want to add one, get a finish that says 'water clear' on the can. Most lacquers, varnishes and polys have an amber cast to them. While not noticeable on wood furniture (it actually enhances the color) it will really show up against white.