Step-by-Step Furniture Refinishing Basics

The hunt for the perfect piece "Quality - Functionality - Style - Size - Budget"

Learning your client's style and listening to what they think they want is extremely important when looking for that perfect piece for them. Details are important; like, quality,

style, size, functionality and price. What "need" is this piece going to fill. For example, one client was looking for a special (surprise) piece for her son who was attending college away from home but was close enough to visit on most weekends and breaks. Space was a challenge as was the exact multi-function required of the piece. The piece needed to provide a place to hang clothes as well as have good drawer storage. I got to work immediately scouring the marketplace as well as any local estate or garage sales. I found exactly what we needed. I sent the client a picture before I purchased the piece and she loved it!

Finding the Perfect Hardware

If the hardware on the piece your going to redo is extremely dated, broken or just plain ugly this will be your next challenge. I start by searching Etsy. I have found that I have the most success here. I create a list of "Favorites" so that its easier to review great hardware that has caught my eye in the past. I knew the hardware on this piece had to go for multiple reasons. (I do keep all the hardware I remove. You just never know when it might be perfect.)

I knew that my hardware for this piece has to be masculine, classy and have 2 matching styles. I wanted the top 4 Knobs to be one thing, the 2 door handles to be a larger size of the handle that would go on the 4 drawers. Size is also very important here. When I came across these I knew they where PERFECT!

Basic Steps for furniture refinishing:

Choose Your Piece. Ensure it's a good candidate for refinishing and worth the effort.

1. Remove Hardware. If there are handles, knobs, or other hardware, remove them using a screwdriver.

2. Clean the Furniture. Remove any wax, dust, dirt, debris, stains from the furniture with your choice of degreasing cleaner which will vary depending on the condition of the piece. (Krud Kutter, GreenEZ Strip & Clean, TSP or TSP Alternative, Mineral Spirits).

3. Sand the Surface. Use 80-220 grit sandpaper to sand the entire surface of the furniture to remove the old finish and create a smooth surface, again depending on what finish you will be applying, and how much damage your piece has. Start with a lower grit sandpaper and progressively move to finer grits for a smoother finish.

4. Repair Imperfections. Fill in any cracks, dents, or holes with wood putty or wood bondo. Let it dry, then sand the patched areas to make them smooth and even with the rest of the surface.

5. Final Sanding. Sand the entire surface again with a fine-grit sandpaper to ensure a smooth finish. Wipe away any dust with a clean cloth.

6. Clean Again. Wipe down with mild detergent and water, rinse with plain water, let dry thoroughly. You can also wipe down with a Tack Cloth gently to remove any fine particles from sanding.

7. Prime or condition your wood depending again on the product(s) you will be using to finish your piece.

8. Stain or Paint. Apply your chosen stain or paint following the manufacturer's instructions. Use even strokes and be mindful of drips. Allow it to dry according to the recommended time.

9. Apply a Second Coat (Optional) Depending on the desired finish and the type of stain or paint you're using, you may need to apply a second coat. Allow proper drying time between coats.

10. Seal the Finish. If using paint, you may want to seal it with a clear protective finish (varnish or polyurethane). If using stain, apply a clear finish or wax to protect and enhance the wood. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for application and drying times.

11. Reattach Hardware. Once the finish is completely dry, reattach any hardware that you removed earlier.

12. Enjoy Your Refinished Furniture. Your furniture is now ready to use and enjoy in its newly refreshed state!

*Remember that each piece of furniture may require slightly different steps based on its condition and the desired outcome. Always follow safety precautions and manufacturer instructions for the products you're using.