DIY Tips for How to Refinish Wood Furniture

Refinishing wood furniture can seem daunting, especially if it is your first time attempting this kind of project. So why do it instead of buying a new piece altogether? Giving your old furniture a makeover is a great way to add personality to your decor, save money, and keep perfectly good pieces from ending up in landfills.

To simplify this process,  we've compiled this guide to help you start with some easy and practical tips for refinishing wood furniture. These simple tips will give you the confidence to tackle any old furniture and transform it into a beautiful and unique piece you can be proud of.

Refinishing vs. restoring furniture

While they are often used interchangeably, refinishing and restoring furniture is not precisely the same. Refinishing can be a part of the restoration process, restoration itself usually involves more extensive repairs and a higher level of expertise.

Refinishing furniture involves stripping the old finish, or top layer, and then applying a new one, such as paint or stain, to give it a new look. This process can cover up scratches, dents, or other damage to the furniture's surface.

Restoration goes further and involves repairing or replacing damaged parts of the furniture and returning it to its original condition as much as possible. This process might include fixing joints, replacing missing or damaged pieces, or repairing deep scratches and dents.

What to look for in a wood furniture piece to refinish

Nothing is worse than starting a project and realizing you made a mistake or have potentially damaged the furniture. By selecting the right piece of furniture from the start, you'll save a lot of time and frustration. Here is what you should look for in furniture you want to refinish.

Avoid furniture with veneer

While you can refinish pretty much any wooden piece of furniture, if this is your first attempt, look for items that don't have a veneer. Veneer is a thin layer of wood glued onto a less expensive or manufactured wood base. It can also be attached with nails or screws; removing it can damage the veneer and the material underneath it.

Skip wood furniture with lots of details

While furniture with many details can be appealing, intricate carvings and moldings can be hard to sand and might need specialized tools and a lot of work. They might also get damaged during the process. Instead, look for furniture with simple, clean lines that will be easier to work with.

Look for stability and craftsmanship

Make sure to inspect any piece of furniture you're considering for any signs of damage. Things like cracks or splits could compromise the piece's structural integrity. You'll also want to avoid any pieces that wobble or have signs of damage. Look for stability and choose furniture in good condition, as that will make your projects easier.

Must-have refinishing supplies

You'll need proper tools and supplies to refinish your furniture correctly. They will help you prepare the piece for refinishing and ensure you can apply the correct products to achieve the look you're looking for. Here is what we recommend before you start:

• Sandpaper: You'll need sandpaper to remove the old finish and prepare the surface of the wood for a new one. You'll want to start with a coarse grit to remove the existing finish and then work your way up to a finer grit to smooth the surface of the wood.

• Paint stripper: You'll need a paint stripper to remove any stubborn paint or finish the sandpaper didn't get. Choose a high-quality product that is safe to use and won't damage the wood.
  
• Wood stain: Stain adds color to the wood and can help enhance its natural beauty. Choose a stain that works with the type of wood you're working with and will give you the desired color.

• Sealant: After the stain is dry, you'll need a clear coat to protect the finish. Choose a high-quality product that will give you the protection you need. Polyurethane is a popular choice for this purpose, as it's durable and easy to apply.
  
• Paint brush, roller and rags: You'll need these to apply the stain, paint or sealant on the furniture. We advise that you have a few on hand for the different products. A rag is handy for wiping away any excess stain or finish and for buffing the surface of the wood.
  
• Additional: Putty knife, screwdriver, disposable gloves, dust mask, safety goggles.

How to refinish different types of wood

Teak outdoor furniture

Teak is a durable wood that requires little maintenance. To refinish teak outdoor furniture, simply clean it with a mild soap and water solution, then apply teak oil to protect it from the elements.

Veneer furniture

Veneer furniture should be handled carefully to avoid damaging the thin layer of wood on the surface. To refinish veneer furniture, clean it thoroughly and sand it lightly, then apply a stain and clear coat to the surface.

Faded polywood furniture

Polywood is a durable material that can fade over time. To restore faded polywood furniture, sand it lightly and then apply a coat of polyurethane to protect it from the elements. This will also help to bring back the original color and make them look brand new.

Pressed wood furniture

Pressed wood is a low-cost material that is not very durable. To refinish pressed wood furniture, wipe it clean and sand it lightly.  Remove excess dust and then apply a coat of primer followed by a coat of paint.

Mahogany furniture

Mahogany is a beautiful and durable wood that can be refinished easily. To restore mahogany furniture, sand it lightly and apply a stain followed by a clear coat to protect it from the elements.

Acacia wood outdoor furniture

Acacia wood is a durable material that requires little maintenance. To refinish acacia wood outdoor furniture, simply clean it with a mild soap and water solution, then apply a wood sealer to protect it from the elements.

Ikea furniture

Ikea furniture is often made from manufactured wood or particle board. To refinish Ikea furniture, clean it thoroughly and sand it lightly. Make sure to remove dust with a damp microfibre cloth. Apply a thin coat of primer followed by a coat of paint.

MDF furniture

MDF stands for medium-density fiberboard, and it’s an engineered wood composite. It’s created from leftover pieces of wood mixed with resin and can be very dense.  To refinish MDF furniture, roughly sand the spots that need fixing, apply filler and sealer, then sand again. Wipe away the dust and apply a coat of primer followed by a coat of paint.

Particle board furniture

To refinish particle board furniture, start by cleaning it thoroughly and repairing any damage. Sand it lightly, and apply a coat of primer. Lightly sand it again and follow with a coat of paint.

Pine, oak, cedar walnut furniture

To refinish pine, oak, cedar or walnut furniture, start by sanding it with coarse sandpaper to remove any finish, then sand again with medium grit sandpaper. Remove dust and apply a stain, followed by a clear coat to protect it from the elements.

Steps for how to refinish wood furniture

No matter which type of wood you’re working with, the process of refinishing wood furniture is pretty much the same. Before you start, make sure you have prepped the area by having a clean and accessible workstation. You can use a drop cloth or some paper to protect the area you’ll be working in. Also, make sure it’s fully ventilated, especially if you’re planning on sanding and using finishing products.

Remove hardware: Before you start working on any furniture, remove all the hardware and set it aside. You might have to remove pieces like doors or drawers and set them aside.

Clean: Make sure you clean the furniture you’ll be working on with a damp rag or a microfibre cloth, and inspect for damage and discoloration.

Strip the top layer: Use sandpaper to remove the top layer and any scratches, stains or discoloration. You might have to do it a few times to get rid of all the imperfections. We recommend using a sander to make the job easier.

Fill in holes: Use epoxy or wood filler to patch up any holes or deep nicks that didn’t come off during sanding. Wait for it to dry, and light sand again to smooth out the surface.

Stain/paint: Once you have cleaned and sanded your furniture, give it a quick wipe with a microfibre cloth to remove dust. You are now ready to stain or paint your furniture. Apply one or two coats as needed. To create a more saturated effect, you might need to add additional coats of paint or stain.

Apply top coat: Apply a sealant to protect the wood once the furniture is dry. You might have to leave it overnight to make sure it’s properly dry. A sealant will protect the stain or paint from coming off and make the furniture easier to keep clean.

Additional tips for success

Use the right tools and equipment

The tools and equipment you'll need for refinishing furniture include sandpaper, a paint stripper, a scraper, a paintbrush or roller, and a sealer. Remember that different furniture types might require various tools and equipment. What works for walnut might work differently for veneer furniture. Using the wrong equipment or products can unintentionally damage your furniture. Make sure to research and plan accordingly before starting a project.

Work in a well-ventilated area

When working on refinishing furniture, you'll likely be exposed to chemicals or fumes. These can be hazardous if inhaled in large amounts or over a long period of time. Make sure you work in a well-ventilated area, such as a garage or outdoor space, to reduce the risk of inhaling these chemicals and keep the workspace safer. You should also consider other factors like temperature, humidity, and dust levels.

Take necessary safety precautions

Working with power tools and chemicals can be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not taken. Read and follow all warning labels and instructions on chemicals and tools. Always wear protective clothing such as gloves and a mask. As with any other project, it's a good idea to have a  first aid kit nearby and to be aware of emergency procedures in case of accidents or injuries.

Avoid common mistakes

Many beginners starting out their first furniture refinishing project often don't sand enough or too much. They also don't clean or prep the surface or use the wrong product. To avoid making these mistakes, always research and plan before you start. It's important to follow instructions carefully and take the time to prep and finish the surface properly.

Conclusion

Refinishing wood furniture can be a very rewarding project and an opportunity to create a one-of-a-kind decor piece for your home. Who knows? You might even discover a new talent you never knew you had. While it might be a daunting project to start, we hope our post has given you useful tips for tackling any furniture project in the future.

FAQ on furniture refinishing

How to refinish furniture with paint?

To refinish furniture with paint, start by cleaning and sanding the surface. Apply a primer, then paint with a brush or spray paint. Finish with a clear coat for added durability.

How to refinish wood furniture without stripping?

To refinish wood furniture without stripping, use a chemical substance like a deglosser to remove the shine and any dents or cracks from the surface. Then, apply a coat of primer and paint, or stain and finish with a clear coat.

How to restore wood furniture with vinegar?

To restore wood furniture using vinegar, mix equal parts vinegar and water. Apply the mixture generously to the surface with a cloth. Let it sit for a bit, then wipe it off with a clean cloth. Repeat as necessary.

How to refinish furniture without sanding?

To refinish furniture without sanding, use a liquid deglosser to remove the shine from the surface. Then, apply a coat of primer and paint, or stain and finish with a clear coat.

How to refinish furniture with chalk paint?

To refinish furniture with chalk paint, start by cleaning the surface. Apply the chalk paint with a brush, then lightly sand it to create a distressed look. Finish with clear wax or polyurethane for added durability.

How to refinish painted furniture?

To refinish painted furniture, start by cleaning and sanding the surface. Apply a coat of primer, then paint with a brush or spray paint. Finish with a clear coat for added durability.

How to restore cane furniture with linseed oil?

To restore cane furniture with linseed oil, clean the surface with a mild soap and water solution. Apply a thin coat of linseed oil with a cloth, and let it soak in for a few hours. Wipe off any excess oil and repeat as necessary.