Refinishing a coffee table can totally refresh a piece of furniture — and it’s a satisfying project too. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you do it right:
🛠️ How to Refinish a Coffee Table
What You’ll Need:
- Drop cloth or tarp
- Safety gear (gloves, goggles, mask)
- Sandpaper (60-, 120-, and 220-grit) or an electric sander
- Tack cloth or damp rag
- Wood stain of your choice
- Wood conditioner (optional, but great for soft woods like pine)
- Polyurethane or other topcoat (matte, satin, or glossy finish)
- Brushes or lint-free cloths
- Mineral spirits (optional, for cleanup)
🔧 Step-by-Step:
1. Prep the Area
- Lay down a drop cloth.
- Make sure you’re in a well-ventilated space (garage with the door open is great).
2. Remove the Old Finish
- Use 60- or 80-grit sandpaper to sand off the old stain and finish. An electric sander makes this go a lot faster.
- Wipe off dust with a tack cloth.
3. Smooth It Out
- Sand again with 120-grit, then finish with 220-grit for a smooth surface.
- Always sand in the direction of the wood grain!
4. Apply Wood Conditioner (Optional)
- Helps prevent blotchiness in soft woods.
- Let it sit per instructions, usually 15–30 minutes before staining.
5. Stain the Wood
- Apply stain with a brush or rag. Let it sit for 5–15 minutes, then wipe off excess with a clean cloth.
- For a deeper color, apply more coats after the first dries (usually 6–8 hours).
6. Seal the Surface
- Once the stain is fully dry, apply a protective topcoat (like polyurethane).
- Apply 2–3 coats, lightly sanding with 220-grit between coats.
7. Let It Cure
- Allow the final coat to cure completely — usually 24–48 hours before use.
💡 Tips:
- Test your stain on a hidden spot first.
- Use long, even strokes when applying stain and poly.
- Avoid doing this project on very humid days — it can mess with the drying times.