Q&A for How to Refinish a Coffee Table

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How do I sand and paint a coffee table?

Community Answer

Use sandpaper and gently rub it on the rough edges. Then, if you are painting, use a primer, paint and then a top coat.

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Question

What should I do about the screws in the legs?

Community Answer

If it's possible to take the screws/legs off, I would probably do that while putting a new finish on. Just be sure you keep all the parts and know how to put it back together!

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Question

How do I remove clear varnish?

Community Answer

I have had success in the past using a windshield scraper, but be sure to press hard enough to break through the varnish.

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Question

Should I seal my table before I put on a two part epoxy?

Community Answer

Yes. It makes it easier to build and more durable. If you don't seal then there is a possibility it will collapse before you finish building. I would suggest looking up a video on the internet, this way you can visually see how each step is done.

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Question

Should I do two coats of undercoat or two coats of finish?

Community Answer

If you have time, then it's better to have more coats. Let your nails dry between each coat, and always end with at least two finish coats. If the undercoat is solid, then the two coats of finish should be enough.

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Question

How do you refinish a wood coffee table?

Drew Hawkins1

Community Answer

Start by sanding off the old finish so you have a fresh surface. Clean it off with soap and water and dry the surface with a clean towel. Use a 40- or 60-grit sandpaper on an electric sander to sand the surface and wipe it down to remove the dust. Then, add your finish of choice with a brush. If you want a natural look, use a clear furniture oil. For darker or differently-colored wood, apply stain to the table and let it dry. You could also apply a layer of primer, let it dry, and then paint the table.

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Question

What oil is best for wood furniture?

Drew Hawkins1

Community Answer

Natural oils are the best to help keep your wood furniture healthy and shiny. Linseed oil, tung oil, and walnut oil are excellent choices. You could also opt for mineral oil, which is a generic term for a clear, odorless oil that goes on clear and will dry to leave your wood bright and shiny. Use teak oil on denser woods like mahogany, maple, and oak to help bring out their rich colors.

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Question

Can I use olive oil on wood furniture?

Drew Hawkins1

Community Answer

Yes, olive oil will help revitalize the wood on your furniture and bring out its natural shine. It works well on chairs, tables, or any other wooden surfaces and dries effectively to form a varnish. Apply some olive oil to a clean cloth and run the cloth over the wood until it's shiny. Add more olive oil to your cloth as needed.

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