If you want a new dining table for your kitchen or dining room, but you don't want to spend a fortune, then buying a used table is the way to go. Not only can you find used furniture for sale online at affordable prices, but you can find pieces that are solid wood and high quality as well. The tricky thing about buying an old wood table, though, is that it may have lacquer or paint on it that you just don't want. If you want to reveal the original wood underneath, then get ready to tackle this DIY project.
Step 1: Clean the Table
Before you start doing anything to your table, you should clean it off with a damp cloth to get rid of any residue, dust, or dirt.
Step 2: Start Sanding
Sanding is key to this project. Rather than grabbing for a piece of sandpaper and doing the job by hand, invest in an electric sander instead. Electric sanders are great because they basically do the job for you. All you have to do is gently hold the sander in place while you brush it back and forth across the surface of the table.
Despite popular belief, you shouldn't apply much pressure to the sander when you are using it because too much pressure could chip the table itself. Also, you don't want to leave the sander in one spot for too long because it could cause some indentations.
Step 3: Apply a Paint Remover
If you are still having a hard time getting rid of the varnish or paint on your table with just a sander, then consider applying a paint remover. While paint thinners are really effective, they can be extremely potent and toxic to be around. Luckily, there are some paint removers out there that are better for your health and environment that do a similar job.
Step 4: Apply a Sealant
Once you have removed everything and revealed the natural wood, you may be tempted to just bring the raw wood table inside your house and start using it. However, wood is easily stained and very sensitive, so it's important that you apply some sort of sealant to it so that it doesn't get damaged. If you don't want to use a sealer, then you can always apply a light stain that already has built-in sealant properties.
For more help, contact local furniture refinishing services.