Furniture, Wood and Cabinetry Finishing - Over-painted Kitchen Cabinets

My house (about 35 years old) has white painted kitchen cabinets. There are so many coats of enamel paint on the doors that they're sticky (despite washing, scrubbing), some don't close properly, and they look terrible. I bought the place a year ago and can't take it any longer. Unfortunately I can't afford to have the kitchen redone by a professional and even the refacing ads I've seen seem too expensive.

I'm a complete novice - I guess I should add that!

I'd like to strip them and stain them, giving the kitchen a completely different look (and feel), but have no idea if it's feasible. (Did I say novice? I'm not even up to "beginner" yet! Actually I participated in the stipping part of this about 20 years ago - but knew those cabinets were birch; I have no idea what these are made of.)

There are 20 doors (all average old kitchen size) and 8 drawer fronts. Approximately how much time and cost am I facing to do this myself?

Thanks in advance. I've just found this forum and I'm impressed!

http://interiordec.about.com/gi/dynamic/offsite.htm?site=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.michaelholigan.com%2FDepartments%2FTVShow%2Fseg_index.asp%3Fts%255Fid%3D5130

You might also want to do a search for this frequently asked question on the Kitchen Forum and the Painting Forum.

I would suggest you do your job with the PEEL AWAY 7 paint removal product. It will remove the paint and keep the natural color of the wood. This product is available to you locally. Visit the web site at www.peelaway.com for more info.