Our current refinished dining table is the result of patience and perseverance. I waited and waited for something I liked to come across on marketplace. But acquiring the table was just the beginning of a very long process of refinishing it.

I picked up this table with two leaves and four velvet orange chairs (the chairs were a non-negotiable with the seller- I had to take them if I wanted the table) The table wasn’t in terrible condition, but I did not love the finish. It had an orange glow to it and a couple significant scratches.

Stripping old finish

The first step is removing the old finish. I used a stripper, followed by steel wool and mineral spirits and lastly sanding. (lots and lots of sanding)

Refinishing any furniture is a messy process in my experience. It’s not particularity difficult, just time consuming and messy.

I loved how the natural wood looked after it was stripped and sanded. We almost kept the raw wood look by trying several clear coats but ultimately decided to go with a medium tone.

Finishing

After testing different clear coats, stains, stripping those off then trying again I ultimately landing on using Varathane Gel Stain in color Kono. I recommend using a pre-stain wood conditioner, especially on a refinishing project.

After testing and researching multiple clear coats I chose General Finish Arm-R-Seal in Satin. It is self leveling and considered very durable.

Refinished Dining Table

This table was a labor of love at times, but I am so happy with how it turned out. Our dining room is one of my favorite rooms in our house, especially after I added the board and batten. You can read all about that here.

Considering taking on a refinishing project?

Go for it! Don’t be intimidated by the process, but also be realistic and prepared. Be willing to take the time necessary to achieve the results you want. My biggest advice…don’t rush through a refinishing project. Take your time and enjoy the process.

Emily