Whether you have a dingy coffee table or a beat up end table, refinishing it is a great way to bring it back to life. It’s also an inexpensive and rewarding hobby. The process takes about 30 minutes per step and is a good way to turn a throwaway item into something you’ll actually use. However, it isn’t as simple as grabbing a paintbrush and slapping some stain on your table. You’ll need to do a few steps first, including stripping the finish, painting it and sanding it. If you’re not a painter or have little experience with DIY projects, refinishing a side table is a fun and easy project.
If you’re refinishing a coffee table, it’s a good idea to use a drop sheet to protect the floor from any spills. In addition to keeping your floors from getting too dirty, the sheet also provides a handy way to catch any stray sanding dust.
The best way to refinish a table is to start by cleaning it. This will remove any grime, dirt, or oil that may be on it. You’ll also want to make sure the table is completely dry before moving on. You can do this by sanding the surface with a sanding block. Sanding the table is a good way to remove debris and prepare the wood for a new coat of stain. Use 120-grit sandpaper to do this. After you’ve finished sanding the table, you’ll want to wipe off any excess dust with a clean rag.
The old “paint a mirror” trick is also a good one to remember. This method is a little trickier than painting a mirror because it involves using chemical stripping agents to strip the finish off your table. In order to do this, you’ll need to find a chemical stripper that can remove the finish and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. It’s also best to use the stripper in a well-ventilated area.
There are many other methods of refinishing a side table, but the best method is the simplest. It involves a small amount of chemicals and a bit of patience. However, the rewards are well worth the effort. The result is a table that looks and feels brand new. To get started on your project, visit your local home improvement store and find a chemical stripper that’s right for your project.
If your table is damaged, you’ll need to use a wood filler to fill in any dents and holes. Wood filler is a good choice because it’s a little more stainable than wood veneer, but it can still hide minor defects. In addition, you should consider adding a coat of varnish, which will help add another layer of protection to the wood. The varnish itself comes in a wide variety of colors, from transparent to glossy, and is best used after the stain has dried.
You can also get creative and try painting your table. If you’re a real pro, you may prefer using an orbital sander, but for the average do-it-yourselfer, a simple sanding block will do the trick. If you’re using a sander, make sure the sanding block isn’t too coarse and that the machine isn’t overpowering the table.
