How To Refinish Kitchen Table: Save Money & Update Your Decor

Is your kitchen table looking worn? Refinishing your kitchen table is a great DIY project that can save you money and update your decor! This guide will walk you through the entire process of kitchen table refinishing, from prepping the surface to applying the final finish. Whether you want to try your hand at restoring kitchen table to it’s former glory, need to do some wood table repair, or are just looking for a fun DIY table makeover, we’ve got you covered.

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Why Refinish Your Kitchen Table?

There are several compelling reasons to consider refinishing your kitchen table instead of replacing it:

• Save Money: New kitchen tables can be expensive. Refinishing is significantly cheaper.
• Personalize Your Decor: Choose a stain or paint color that perfectly matches your style.
• Extend the Life of Your Table: Refinishing can repair damage and protect the wood for years to come.
• Environmentally Friendly: Refinishing reduces waste by giving your existing furniture a new life.
• It’s a Rewarding Project: Enjoy the satisfaction of transforming a tired piece of furniture into something beautiful.

Assessing Your Kitchen Table

Before you begin, take a close look at your kitchen table. What kind of shape is it in? This assessment will determine the level of effort and materials required.

• Type of Wood: Is it hardwood (oak, maple, cherry) or softwood (pine, fir)? Hardwoods are generally easier to refinish.
• Current Finish: Is it varnish, lacquer, paint, or something else? This will affect the removal process.
• Damage: Are there scratches, dents, water rings, or other imperfections? Wood table repair might be needed.
• Table Construction: How is the table put together? Knowing this will help you disassemble and reassemble it properly if needed.

Tools & Materials for Kitchen Table Refinishing

Having the right tools and materials will make the kitchen table refinishing process much smoother. Here’s a comprehensive list:

• Safety Gear:
  • Safety glasses
  • Dust mask or respirator
  • Gloves
• Stripping Tools:
  • Chemical stripper (optional, but helpful for removing tough finishes)
  • Paint scraper
  • Putty knife
• Sanding Tools:
  • Sandpaper (various grits: 80, 120, 180, 220)
  • Sanding block or orbital sander
• Cleaning Supplies:
  • Tack cloth
  • Mineral spirits or denatured alcohol
  • Clean rags
• Staining/Painting Supplies:
  • Wood stain or paint
  • Paintbrushes or foam applicators
  • Paint tray (if painting)
• Finishing Supplies:
  • Polyurethane or varnish
  • Paintbrushes or foam applicators
• Repair Supplies:
  • Wood filler
  • Putty knife
  • Wood glue (if needed)
• Other:
  • Drop cloths
  • Screwdrivers or wrenches (for disassembly)
  • Clamps (if repairing)

Step-by-Step Guide to Kitchen Table Refinishing

1. Preparation is Key

• Workspace: Choose a well-ventilated area. Cover the floor with drop cloths to protect it from spills and dust.
• Disassembly: If possible, take the table apart (remove legs, leaves, etc.). This will make sanding and finishing easier. Label all the parts to ensure easy reassembly.
• Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the table with a mild detergent and water to remove any dirt, grease, or wax. Let it dry completely.

2. Removing the Old Finish

There are two main methods for removing the old finish: chemical stripping and sanding.

Chemical Stripping

Chemical stripping can be effective for removing multiple layers of old paint or varnish.

• Application: Apply a thick, even coat of chemical stripper to the surface of the table, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Waiting: Allow the stripper to sit for the recommended time (usually 15-30 minutes) to soften the finish.
• Scraping: Use a paint scraper or putty knife to carefully remove the softened finish. Work with the grain of the wood.
• Neutralizing: After stripping, neutralize the surface with mineral spirits or denatured alcohol, as recommended by the stripper manufacturer.
• Disposal: Dispose of the used stripper and scrapings properly according to local regulations.

Sanding

Sanding is a more labor-intensive method, but it gives you more control and avoids the use of harsh chemicals. It’s ideal for refinishing wood table surfaces.

• Start with Coarse Grit: Begin with 80-grit sandpaper to remove the bulk of the old finish. If the old finish is very stubborn, you may even need to start with a 60-grit sandpaper.
• Progress to Finer Grits: Gradually move to 120-grit, 180-grit, and finally 220-grit sandpaper.
• Sanding Technique: Sand with the grain of the wood to avoid scratches. Use a sanding block or orbital sander for larger surfaces.
• Corners and Edges: Be careful when sanding edges and corners to avoid rounding them over.
• Dust Removal: After each sanding step, wipe the table down with a tack cloth to remove dust.

Table: Sandpaper Grit Guide

Grit	Use
60-80	Removing old finishes, heavy stock removal, rough surfaces.
100-120	Removing minor imperfections, smoothing rough surfaces.
150-180	Preparing for staining, light sanding between coats of finish.
220-320	Final sanding before finishing, ultra-smooth finish, sanding between coats of varnish or polyurethane.

3. Repairing Damage

Before refinishing, take care of any damage to the wood. This is part of restoring kitchen table surfaces.

• Scratches and Dents: Fill minor scratches and dents with wood filler. Apply the filler with a putty knife, slightly overfilling the area. Allow it to dry completely, then sand it smooth with 220-grit sandpaper.
• Water Rings: Sometimes, you can remove water rings by lightly sanding the affected area. If the ring is deep, you may need to use a wood bleach.
• Loose Joints: If any joints are loose, disassemble them and clean off the old glue. Apply fresh wood glue to the joint, clamp it tightly, and let it dry completely before reassembling the table.

4. Staining or Painting

Now it’s time to add color to your kitchen table! You can choose to stain the wood to highlight its natural beauty or paint it for a more modern look.

Staining Wood Table

Staining enhances the wood grain and adds warmth to your kitchen table.

• Wood Conditioner (Optional): Apply a wood conditioner before staining, especially if you’re working with softwood. This will help the stain absorb evenly.
• Application: Apply the stain with a brush, foam applicator, or rag. Work with the grain of the wood.
• Wiping: After a few minutes, wipe off the excess stain with a clean rag. The longer you leave the stain on, the darker the color will be.
• Drying: Allow the stain to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Multiple Coats (Optional): Apply a second coat of stain if you want a deeper color. Sand lightly with 220-grit sandpaper between coats.

Painting Kitchen Table

Painting gives your kitchen table a fresh, new look.

• Primer: Apply a coat of primer to the table. This will help the paint adhere better and provide a more uniform finish.
• Application: Apply the paint with a brush, roller, or sprayer. Use smooth, even strokes.
• Drying: Allow the paint to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Multiple Coats: Apply at least two coats of paint for good coverage and durability. Sand lightly with 220-grit sandpaper between coats.

5. Applying the Finish

A durable finish will protect your newly stained or painted kitchen table from scratches, stains, and water damage.

• Types of Finishes:
  • Polyurethane: A durable and water-resistant finish that’s available in oil-based and water-based formulas. Oil-based polyurethane tends to yellow over time, while water-based polyurethane is clearer and dries faster.
  • Varnish: A traditional finish that provides good protection.
  • Lacquer: A fast-drying finish that’s often used on furniture. However, it’s not as durable as polyurethane.
• Application: Apply the finish with a brush, foam applicator, or sprayer. Use smooth, even strokes.
• Drying: Allow the finish to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Sanding Between Coats: Sand lightly with 320-grit sandpaper between coats to remove any imperfections.
• Multiple Coats: Apply at least two coats of finish for good protection. Three coats are even better.

6. Reassembly & Final Touches

• Reassemble: Carefully reassemble the kitchen table, attaching the legs, leaves, and any other parts you disassembled earlier.
• Hardware: Replace any old or damaged hardware (knobs, pulls, etc.) to complete the transformation.
• Cleaning: Clean the finished table with a soft cloth.
• Enjoy: Step back and admire your newly refinished kitchen table!

Tips for a Professional-Looking Finish

• Practice: If you’re new to refinishing, practice on a scrap piece of wood before working on your kitchen table.
• Even Application: Apply stain, paint, and finish in thin, even coats to avoid drips and runs.
• Sand Lightly: Don’t over-sand. Light sanding between coats is all you need to create a smooth surface.
• Patience: Allow each coat of stain, paint, and finish to dry completely before applying the next coat.
• Ventilation: Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling harmful fumes.

Choosing the Right Finish for Your Kitchen Table

The finish you choose plays a crucial role in the durability and appearance of your refinished kitchen table. Here’s a more in-depth look at some popular options:

Finish Type	Pros	Cons	Best For
Polyurethane (Oil-Based)	Durable, water-resistant, provides a warm, amber hue, good leveling properties (brush strokes tend to disappear).	Strong odor, slow drying time, can yellow over time, requires mineral spirits for cleanup.	High-traffic areas, tables that need excellent water resistance, achieving a traditional look.
Polyurethane (Water-Based)	Low odor, fast drying time, clear finish (doesn’t yellow), easy cleanup with soap and water.	Not as durable as oil-based polyurethane, can raise the grain of the wood (requiring more sanding), may require more coats for adequate protection.	Modern, light-colored finishes, projects where fast drying is important, environmentally conscious users.
Varnish	Good durability, classic look, available in various sheens (gloss, satin, matte).	Slower drying time than lacquer, can be prone to brush marks if not applied carefully, requires mineral spirits for cleanup.	Traditional furniture, projects where a classic look is desired, those seeking a balance between durability and ease of application.
Lacquer	Very fast drying time, smooth finish, easy to repair.	Not as durable as polyurethane or varnish, prone to scratching and water damage, strong odor, requires specialized spraying equipment for best results.	Furniture that requires a quick finishing process, projects where a perfectly smooth finish is desired (often used on high-end furniture).
Wax	Natural look and feel, easy to apply and repair, enhances the wood’s natural beauty.	Offers minimal protection against water and scratches, requires regular reapplication.	Low-traffic areas, decorative pieces, projects where a natural look and feel are more important than durability.
Oil Finishes (e.g., Tung Oil, Linseed Oil)	Penetrates the wood for a natural look, easy to apply, enhances the wood grain.	Offers minimal protection against water and scratches, requires multiple coats, long drying time between coats, can be flammable during application.	Projects where a natural look and feel are paramount, antique furniture, those comfortable with a longer finishing process.

Refinishing Kitchen Table Top: Special Considerations

The kitchen table top is the most used and abused part of the table. Here are some specific tips for refinish kitchen table top:

• Thorough Cleaning: Pay extra attention to cleaning the tabletop. Remove any food stains, grease, or spills.
• Addressing Damage: Table tops often have more scratches, dents, and water rings than other parts of the table. Take your time to repair these imperfections carefully.
• Durable Finish: Choose a durable finish, such as polyurethane, to protect the tabletop from everyday wear and tear.
• Consider a Heat-Resistant Finish: If you frequently place hot dishes on your table, consider using a heat-resistant finish.
• Multiple Coats: Apply at least three coats of finish to the tabletop for maximum protection.

Troubleshooting Common Kitchen Table Refinishing Problems

• Uneven Stain: This can be caused by uneven sanding or poor wood preparation. Try applying a wood conditioner before staining. If the stain is already applied, you may need to sand it off and start over.
• Blotchy Paint: This is often caused by inadequate priming. Apply a second coat of primer and sand lightly before painting.
• Bubbles in the Finish: This can be caused by shaking the finish too vigorously or applying it in a humid environment. Avoid shaking the finish and apply it in a dry, well-ventilated area.
• Brush Marks: Use a high-quality brush and apply the finish in smooth, even strokes. Sand lightly between coats to remove any brush marks.
• Finish Not Drying: This can be caused by applying too thick of a coat or applying it in a cold, humid environment. Apply thinner coats and ensure proper ventilation.

FAQ: Kitchen Table Refinishing

• What is the best way to remove old paint from a kitchen table? The best way to remove old paint depends on the type of paint and the condition of the table. Chemical stripping is effective for multiple layers of paint, while sanding is a good option for a single layer of paint or when you want to avoid harsh chemicals.
• Can I refinish a kitchen table without sanding? Yes, you can use a chemical stripper to remove the old finish without sanding. However, you may still need to do some light sanding to smooth the surface before applying the new finish.
• Who can refinish my kitchen table for me? If you don’t want to DIY, you can hire a professional furniture refinisher. Look for reputable businesses in your area with positive reviews.
• How much does it cost to refinish a kitchen table professionally? The cost to refinish a kitchen table professionally can vary depending on the size of the table, the type of finish, and the complexity of the project. Expect to pay several hundred dollars.
• How long does it take to refinish a kitchen table? The time it takes to refinish a kitchen table depends on the size of the table, the condition of the existing finish, and your skill level. It can take anywhere from a weekend to several days.

Conclusion

Refinishing your kitchen table is a rewarding DIY project that can save you money and update your decor. By following these steps and tips, you can transform your tired old table into a beautiful and functional piece of furniture that you’ll enjoy for years to come. Now get out there and start your own kitchen table refinishing project!