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So you’ve been wanting to revamp a favourite piece of furniture or maybe you’ve stumbled upon a thrifted gem, refinishing furniture can breathe new life into your old pieces. This post will guide you through simple steps to refinish your first piece of furniture. Transforming your old furniture can give it a new look, help preserve it for years to come, and even save you money in the long run. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive in!
Products Used
| Microfibre Cloths |
| Zep Degreaser |
| Klean-Strip (this is my choice when I do use a stripper) |
| Milwaukee Orbital Sander |
| 120 & 220 Grit Sanding Discs |
| Wood Filler |
| Bullseye Primer |
| Fusion Mineral Paint – Ash |
| Minwax Stain – Early American – on the drawer fronts only* |
| Interior Polyurethane |
Step 1: Clean Your Piece to Remove Dirt and Grime
Before you begin your furniture refinishing project, a thorough cleaning is the first order of business. Dust, grime, and oils that have built up over time must be eliminated. This layer of residue can interfere with your refinishing efforts if not properly addressed. You’ll want to use a Microfibre Cloth and a high-strength cleaner, such as Zep Degreaser. Simply spray the cleaner onto the cloth and rub it over the entire surface of the furniture, paying special attention to any intricate designs or hard-to-reach areas.
Once you’re done, your furniture piece should be free of any dust and residue, setting the stage for the next steps in the refinishing process.
Step 2: Removing Old Paint or Stain
The next step in the refinishing process is eliminating any pre-existing paint or stain. You can accomplish this through two methods: utilizing a paint stripper or sanding. While both have their advantages, if you’re anything like me and tend to create a bit of a muddle with a paint stripper, sanding might be the preferable route for you.
If you prefer to use a paint stripper this is one is my go-to – Klean Strip. Please be sure to follow the directions!
My Milwaukee Orbital Sander has been a lifesaver in my furniture refinishing journey.
When sanding, keep in mind you’re not aiming for absolute bare wood, if your plans involve repainting the item. Your goal is to get rid of the shiny, top layer, which creates an ideal surface for new paint to cling to. Gentle, steady strokes and a touch of patience are integral to effective sanding, ensuring you don’t damage the wood beneath.
If you are planning to stain your piece then you will have to take it down to bare wood.
To make this task more manageable, opt for Medium-Grit(120-150) Sandpaper for initial sanding, then switch to Fine-Grit(180-220) Sandpaper to smooth the surface. To keep cost low you can find Assorted Grit Sanding Discs here.
Always sand along the direction of the wood grain to avoid scratches and keep the natural beauty of the wood intact.
Regardless of the method you choose, removing old paint or stain is a critical stage in the furniture refinishing process, preparing the piece for its transformation.
Step 3: Fill in the Holes or Gaps with Wood Filler
To start the process, carefully inspect your piece for any imperfections that need to be addressed. Then, armed with your Wood Filler, apply it generously to the affected areas as per the instructions on the product. A tip here is to slightly overfill the gaps or holes because wood filler tends to contract as it dries, which may result in an uneven surface.
After the wood filler has had enough time to thoroughly dry, the next task is to create a smooth, uniform surface. Employ fine-grit sandpaper for this job, gently sanding the filled areas until they are level with the rest of the piece. Be careful to not over-sand, as this could damage the surrounding wood. Now, your furniture is adequately prepared for the transformation it’s about to undergo!
Step 4: Add your Personal Touch: Painting or Staining the Piece
This stage of the refinishing process is where the magic happens. Now you can infuse your personality into the piece by painting or staining it. I highly suggest using a primer to create a uniform colour on your piece, this is my preferred Primer. Opt for high-quality furniture paint or use my favourite Fusion Mineral Paint by Dixie Belle Paints, on this revamp I used the colour Ash. A good quality brush or roller will ensure a smooth, streak-free application, enhancing the overall look of your piece.
If, on the other hand, you’re a fan of the natural beauty of wood and wish to highlight the grain, a classic wood stain will be your best bet. For this piece I used Minwax- Early American. Apply the stain along the direction of the wood grain, being sure to wipe away any surplus with a clean, lint-free cloth. This will ensure consistent colour and prevent the pooling of the stain.
Regardless of the route you choose, it’s essential to apply the colour or stain evenly across the entire piece. Take your time during this process, covering every nook and cranny for a cohesive look. Once you’re satisfied with your application, let your piece dry thoroughly. This might take a bit of patience, but it’s well worth the wait.
Step 5: Sealing the Deal: Finish with a Sealant
The final stage in the refinishing process is applying a sealant to your piece. I regularly use an Interior Polyurethane. This protective layer plays a vital role in safeguarding your furniture from potential wear and tear and also helps maintain the fresh appearance of your piece for a long duration. Essentially, it is what keeps your hard-earned work intact and allows your furniture to shine in its renewed glory.
Applying the sealant may require a certain finesse. Utilize long, even strokes for the best results and be sure to catch any drips or runs immediately. Remember, less is more when it comes to sealant – it’s always easier to add another layer than to remove excess.
Once you’ve applied the sealant, patience is key. Allow ample time for the sealant to dry thoroughly before you start using the furniture.