A used dinette table can be refinished adding an antique or vintage decor to any kitchen. Lear how to restoring thrift store furniture with these tips, techniques and instructions for creating an heirloom for the family.
The first thing to do when refinishing used furniture is give it a good scrub. Removing all the dirt and grime will brighten the piece and help prepare the surface for a new finish. Using wood soap will clean the table without leaving behind any harmful residue. Going over the entire table with a scrub brush and getting into the cracks and crevices with a detail brush will get your wood looking new. If there are deep stains or water rings on the table, use fine steel wool to help fade them away. Once the table is cleaned to satisfaction, let it dry. Waiting a day or two before starting the next step will keep the wood in good condition as it finds its way to a new look.
If the table has many nicks and gashes it would be a good idea to smooth them away with a little sandpaper. Always start out with fine grade sandpaper and only increase coarseness when necessary. Some of the scars on the wood can be left, giving the table some character and age. Use a dry cloth or brush to remove all the wood particles from the surface of the table after sanding.
Next, turn the table upside-down and look for any screws that might be holding the legs to the tabletop. Inspect the joints for any looseness and tighten the screws that are present. If the wood where the screw is located has worn away, remove the screw and fill the hole with wood putty. Let the putty dry, and then reinsert the screw. The wood putty doesn't need to dry completely before you put the screw back in. Sometimes when the putty is completely dry it's too hard for the threads of the screw to penetrate. If this does happen, just drill a pilot hole in that spot, and then replace the screw. For jointed areas that aren't screwed together and need tightening, wood glue works the best. Just separate the joint slightly and add glue to the area that is to be inserted. Tap the joint back together with a hammer to ensure a tight fit. Let the glue dry at least overnight before proceeding.
Now it's time to give the final touches to the restored dinette table. Picking a finish is entirely up to the owner. There are many stains and varnishes on the market. Rubbing in a wax finish would keep the wood at its most natural state. Staining the wood before varnishing it can be time consuming, but results in a beautiful finish. Always remember to let the coats dry completely before painting on the next one. There are polyurethane finishes that have the stain mixed in them which are easy to use and provide a long lasting, durable finish. Follow the manufacturer directions and your table will be the centerpiece of the kitchen.
Refinishing a thrift store dinette table can create an heirloom piece that will last for generations. Proper maintenance and small touchups will keep the table in great shape. Restoring wood furniture at home adds a personal touch to any decor.
