How to Refinish a Wooden Coffee Table
A wooden coffee table can be an antique family heirloom or a new find, whatever its provenance, it is still possible to give it a new lease of life with a few simple tools and refinishing techniques.
Preparing the Table:
- Your first step is to remove any coating, such as paint or varnish, from the table.
- Use a scraper or sandpaper to remove any large chunks or pieces of material.
- To remove stubborn varnish, you can use a paint stripping product.
- Be sure to wear the proper protective equipment, including gloves and a respirator.
Sanding the grain:
- Once the table is stripped, it is time to sand the wood down to the grain.
- Start with a course grit sandpaper, and work your way down to a finer grit sandpaper.
- Be sure to sand evenly and apply light pressure.
- Once the table is complete, you should be left with a smooth, even surface.
Applying the Finish:
- Now is the time to apply the finish to the coffee table.
- If you have an antique table, you can choose to stain or paint the table.
- If you prefer a modern look, you can opt for a lacquer or varnish.
- Be sure to follow the instructions on the label of the product you are using.
- Allow the finish to dry completely before using the table.
Refinishing a wooden coffee table is a simple and rewarding project. With a few basic tools, you can easily bring your table back to its original glory.
