How to Refinish a Wooden Coffee Table

Water stains, dings, dents and other cosmetic blemishes on your wooden coffee table may signify that it is time to refinish the surface. While it may seem to be a complicated process, refinishing a wooden coffee table doesn't have to be difficult at all. Depending on how elaborate the table is, a table can be refinished in an afternoon or the job may take a weekend to complete.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Electric hand sander Sandpaper of 80, 120 and 300 grit Clean, soft rags Mineral spirits Wood stain Paintbrushes (either bristle or foam) Polyurethane

1. Remove the old finish. This can be accomplished by sanding the entire surface of the table. Use the electric hand sander on all flat surfaces. Hold a piece of sandpaper in your hand to remove the finish in those hard-to-reach areas. Start with the 80-grit paper. Work up to the 300 grit for a smooth surface on all areas.

2. Wipe the entire table with a soft rag to remove surface dust left behind by the sanding process.

3. Wipe the table again with a soft rag that is moistened with mineral spirits. This will remove any remaining dust on the table that can mar the new finish. Allow the table to dry.

4. Apply the stain of your choice to the table using a paintbrush.

5. Wipe the table with a clean rag to remove any excess stain. Allow the stain to dry. This can take anywhere from an hour to several hours, depending on temperatures and humidity.

6. Apply the polyurethane using the paintbrush. Let the polyurethane dry and lightly sand the surface with the 300-grit sandpaper to remove any bubbles that may have formed.

7. Apply a second coat of polyurethane. Let dry and repeat the sanding process. If more coats of polyurethane are desired, continue the process for each coat.

Tips & Warnings

• Once you uncover the beauty of the natural wood, you may decide not to use any type of stain that will cover it up. Polyurethane can also be purchased that can be wiped on the surface with a soft cloth. Always work in a well-ventilated area. This gives the stains and polyurethane a quicker drying time, and it also dissipates the particles from the sanding and the fumes from the chemicals from being inhaled.