The video “Don’t Ruin Your Table! Common Refinishing Mistakes & How to Avoid Them” is by The Evening Woodworker. In this insightful guide, he shares valuable tips on how to successfully refinish a kitchen table, a piece of furniture that often endures the most wear and tear in a household.
Understanding the Importance of Refinishing
Kitchen tables are often subjected to a variety of conditions, from hot dishes to sharp utensils, resulting in wear and tear over time. The Evening Woodworker emphasizes the necessity of a thorough refinishing process to restore the table’s beauty and durability. This process begins with ensuring the table is solid wood, as refinishing veneer tables can be tricky and potentially damaging.
Step 1: Stripping the Old Finish
The first step in the refinishing process is to chemically strip the old finish. Many people make the mistake of attempting to sand off the finish without removing it first, which can lead to a less-than-desirable result. The Evening Woodworker advises reading the directions for the stripper carefully and applying it thickly to achieve the best results.
Step 2: Sanding
After stripping, sanding is crucial. This step typically requires multiple grits of sandpaper, starting with 80 grit to remove the remaining finish, followed by 120 and 220 grit for a smooth finish. Skipping grits can result in visible scratches once the new finish is applied, so it’s important to take your time and progress through each grit.
Step 3: Choosing the Right Finish
Once the sanding is complete, selecting the right finish is essential. The Evening Woodworker explains that polyurethane provides a durable finish, while hard wax oil offers a more natural look. If staining is desired, it should be applied before the topcoat. Testing the stain on an inconspicuous area is also recommended to ensure the desired color.
Step 4: Applying the Finish
When applying the finish, it’s vital to avoid bubbles, which can create a rough texture. The Evening Woodworker recommends using a foam brush to smooth out the finish and pop any bubbles. He also advises sanding between coats to achieve a smooth texture and to use a finer grit sandpaper for the final coat.
Step 5: Adding a Protective Layer
To further enhance the durability of the table, adding a layer of wax on top of the polyurethane can provide additional waterproofing. The Evening Woodworker prefers Odie’s wax for its ease of use and pleasant scent. After applying the wax, it should be left to dry before buffing to achieve a desired shine.
Final Thoughts
Refinishing a kitchen table can seem daunting, but with the right approach and careful attention to detail, it can be a rewarding project. The Evening Woodworker emphasizes the importance of patience and preparation throughout the process, encouraging DIY enthusiasts to take their time and enjoy the journey of bringing an old piece of furniture back to life.
