Refinishing furniture is a great way to save money, preserve the past and be good to the environment. Buying a secondhand piece and then refinishing the furniture can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars. If you've inherited older furniture, refinishing could turn an eyesore into a showpiece. It can have environmental benefits, too, saving landfill space and reducing the demand for hardwood.
Finding A Good Candidate
Before you embark on a refinishing project, make sure the piece of furniture you're considering is a good candidate.
A rare or collectible piece should be left to a professional. If you're in doubt as to the value of a piece of furniture, it could be worthwhile to consult an appraiser or antique dealer.
For beginners, a large or highly detailed piece of furniture may be too big a project. Consider a smaller piece like an end table or small chest. Once you've become comfortable with refinishing furniture, you can move on to bigger pieces.
Pieces with several coats of paint will be difficult to strip. Avoid these pieces unless you really love the furniture or just like a challenge.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Harsh chemical strippers can do more harm than good, weakening glued joints and ruining veneers. Consider a gentler furniture refinisher that will loosen the finish without stripping it to the bare wood.
If You Really Need To Strip
If you decide to strip your furniture, try a 50/50 mix of paint thinner and lacquer thinner. There are also biodegradable finish removers that are less caustic and harmful to the environment. An old toothbrush or fine steel wool will help to remove the finish from detailed areas and tight corners.
Once the finish is removed, wipe down your furniture and gently sand it with fine steel wool or sand paper. Remove any dust with a tack cloth.
Stain Your Masterpiece (On Purpose!)
There are many stain choices available when refinishing furniture. Your selection will be driven by personal taste rather than technical considerations. Follow the manufacturers instructions for applying the stain. Make sure to wear gloves: they call it stain for a reason! Any stain you get on your hands will be there for a long time.
Seal In The Goodness
When it comes to refinishing furniture, you have a couple of options for sealing your work.
Tung oil provides a classic finish and can be rag applied and wiped off. Several coats will give your furniture plenty of protection and keep it looking good.
Polyurethane can be a great choice when you're refinishing furniture that will see hard use. Several coats of polyurethane with a light steel wool buffing between will create a stain finish that is rock hard.
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