How To Refinish Coffee Table

How to Refinish a Coffee Table

Restoring an old coffee table to its former glory can be a rewarding DIY project that not only enhances the appearance of your living room but also saves you money compared to purchasing a new one. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to refinish a coffee table:

Gather Necessary Materials

Before starting, gather the necessary materials for the project, including:

Wood cleaner
Fine-grit sandpaper
Sanding sponge or sanding block
Tack cloth
Wood stain or paint
Foam brush or paintbrush
Polyurethane or sealant
Screwdriver (if necessary)

Prepare the Coffee Table

Begin by thoroughly cleaning the coffee table using a wood cleaner to remove dirt and debris. Remove all hardware, such as handles or knobs, using a screwdriver. If necessary, disassemble the table to make sanding easier.

Sand the Surface

Sand the entire surface of the coffee table using fine-grit sandpaper or a sanding sponge or block. Sand with the grain of the wood, moving in long, even strokes. Start with a rougher grit sandpaper and gradually move to finer grits until the surface is smooth and free of imperfections.

Clean and Dry

After sanding, thoroughly clean the surface with a tack cloth to remove any sanding dust. Allow the table to dry completely before proceeding.

Apply Stain or Paint

If you're using stain, stir it well and apply it evenly to the coffee table using a foam brush or paintbrush. Work with the grain of the wood and apply multiple thin coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. If using paint, follow the manufacturer's instructions for application.

Protect the Finish

Once the stain or paint is dry, apply a protective layer of polyurethane or sealant to protect the finish. Choose a satin, semi-gloss, or gloss finish depending on your desired look. Apply multiple thin coats, sanding lightly between coats to ensure a smooth surface.

Reassemble and Enjoy

After the final coat of polyurethane or sealant has dried, reassemble the coffee table and replace the hardware. Your refinished coffee table is now ready to enjoy!