How to Refinish a Wood Table

While you may want an antique dining room tables for your home, you'll probably pay upwards of $3,000 for the pleasure. However there is a way to have your table and save money too. Find an old, worn-out wood table and make it look like new. Follow the steps to refinish your wood table and you'll be entertaining in style in no time.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Sand paper Electric sander Wood stain Paint brushes

1. Scan your tabletop for any lumps or bumps. Use an electric sander to completely sand down the tabletop and make it as smooth as possible, then hand-sand the legs and any small grooves. Use the coarsest sand paper possible at first, then switch to a medium-fine to smooth it out.

2. Remove any trace of finish, paint or stain. You can use your electric sander for this or simply sand by hand. Even if you use an electric sander, you'll need to sand around the corners and in crevices by hand. Over-sand rather than under-sand to make sure you've removed all old materials; if you leave any trace of paint or stain, it'll affect your painting or staining later.

3. Apply a thin coat of stain to the table with a paint brush. Apply evenly. Any stain is fine; choose whatever color you like best, but avoid the cheapest as they tend to be too watery; and don't spend money on the most expensive and it isn't necessary. Allow the table to dry for 48 hours.

4. Use sandpaper to lightly smooth out any areas where you over-applied the stain.

5. Apply a second coat of stain to the table, a little thicker but just as evenly. Allow to dry for at least 72 hours before use.

Tips & Warnings

• Run a fan near the table at least during the first 24 hours to help it dry. You'll know the table is dry when it is no longer sticky.
• Work in your garage, outside or at in a well-ventilated area. Stain has toxic fumes, and you also want to give your table enough air to dry.

[our5kids]

on 4/2/2009 Thank you for the tips 5*.