How to Refinish a Dining Room Table

by BiyaG | Last Updated: April 13, 2023
How to Refinish a Dining Room Table

Refinishing a dining room table can be a cost-effective way to breathe new life into your existing furniture. It’s also an easy DIY project for anyone comfortable with basic woodworking tools. This article will discuss the various ways you can have your damaged wood repaired and refinished so that it looks new again.

When your dining room table is damaged, there are a number of options for refinishing it. Since this is a blog for DIY buffs, it’s important to give the readers some advice. For those who don’t know how to refinish a dining room table of their own, here are some steps that you need to follow.

Here are a few things to keep in mind while refinishing Dining furniture:

Refinishing furniture requires careful attention to detail to ensure that the final result is both beautiful and functional.

Safety precautions: When working with chemical strippers, sanders, and other tools, it’s important to take safety precautions to protect yourself from dust, fumes, and other hazards. Wear protective gloves, a mask, and safety goggles, and work in a well-ventilated area.

Surface preparation: Proper surface preparation is essential for achieving a smooth, even finish. This involves removing any old finish or paint, sanding the surface to remove imperfections and smooth out rough spots, and thoroughly cleaning the surface to remove dust and debris.

Choosing the right finish: There are many different types of finishes to choose from, including paint, stain, and clear coat. Choose a finish that is appropriate for the type of wood you’re working with, and consider the look and durability you want to achieve.

Application technique: Whether you’re using a brush, spray can, or other tools to apply the finish, it’s important to use the proper method to achieve an even, smooth finish. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and take your time to avoid drips, bubbles, or other imperfections.

Drying time: Allow each finish coat to dry completely before applying the next coat or handling the piece of furniture. Rushing the drying process can result in a poor finish or damage to the surface.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure that your furniture refinishing project is a success and results in a beautiful piece of furniture that you can enjoy for years to come.

What you will need to refinish your dining table?

Refinishing your dining table: A Step by Step Guide

How to Refinish a Dining Room Table

Refinishing a dining room table can be a rewarding DIY project that can give new life to an old or outdated piece of furniture. Next, prepare your work area by laying down drop cloths and ensuring proper ventilation.

Here are the steps to refinish a dining room table:

1- Remove the old finish

Firstly, determine what kind of finish your dining table has. This will dictate what type of stripper or solvent you’ll need to use. If the finish is shellac or lacquer, a solvent-based stripper will work best. However, if it’s varnish or polyurethane, you’ll need a water-based stripper instead. 

Use a chemical stripper or sandpaper to remove the old finish from the table. Wear protective gloves and a mask to avoid inhaling the fumes or dust.

2- Sand the table:

 Once the old finish is removed, use a sanding block or a power sander to smooth out any rough areas or imperfections in the wood. Start with a coarse grit sandpaper and work your way up to a fine grit.

3- Clean the table:

Remove all dust and debris from the table using a damp cloth or tack cloth. Make sure the table is completely clean and dry before proceeding.

4- Stain the table (optional):

If you want to change the color of the table, apply a wood stain with a brush or cloth, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Allow the stain to dry completely before proceeding.

5- Apply a sealant:

Apply a coat of clear sealant to protect the table and give it a smooth finish. Use a brush or spray can, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Allow the sealant to dry completely before proceeding.

6- Sand the table again (optional):

If you want a smoother finish, lightly sand the table again with fine-grit sandpaper, and wipe away any dust with a damp cloth or tack cloth.

7- Apply additional coats of sealant (optional):

Apply additional coats of a sealant as needed to achieve the desired level of protection and finish. Allow each coat to dry completely before proceeding.

8- Reattach any hardware: 

If you removed any hardware from the table, reattach it once the sealant is completely dry.

Conclusion: How to Refinish a Dining Room Table

Keep in mind that the specific steps and materials needed for refinishing your dining room table may vary depending on the condition and type of wood of your table, as well as your personal preferences. Be sure to research and gather all the necessary materials before starting the project, and take your time to ensure a high-quality finish. Good luck with your refinishing project!