I have a couple of pieces. One is a family heirloom dinning room table that is discolored but originally cherry. The others are a light color and I'd like to stain them to a dark cherry as well. How do you get started? Any tips, experience and advice is welcome. I've never done this before. Although I do know for the table I need to sand it first and I have a sander and have used it before.
2007-02-09 23:58:25 · 4 answers · asked by jypsiiie 2 in Home & Garden ➔ Do It Yourself (DIY)
The best sander for refinishing work s a random orbit type. If that's what you have, you're set. For areas where you cannot get your sander, there are "detail sanders" available for not too much that work quite well. And, of course, hand-sanding is going to be needed as well, especialy if there are any profiles.
For the best result, you need to sand all of the existing finsh away. Use the finest grit you can live with, and finish with a 180 - 200 grit paper. Be carefull sanding on veneers. They can be very thin. To refinsh, select the stain of choice, and apply it according to the directions on the product. I like Minwax stains, and for a hand rubbed finish, a good tung oil, or for a heavy, protective finish, I use Flecto (or any good) Varathane.
Enjoy. Refinishing is a lot of work, but the end result is always a pleasure!
2007-02-11 07:59:23 · answer #1 · answered by Hank 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If this is you first attempt at staining, practice first on some scrap wood, or even buy some to practice on. Having a piece come out well is knowing how to do it, and practice is the best way. It may cost you a couple of bucks but it will be worth it in the end. As far as application goes, the best thing to do is to follow the manufacturer's instructions as closely as possible. Matching colors will be the most difficult part of this task and unfortunately there is nothing for it but to do it as each piece of wood varies in how it takes and shows stain. Good luck.
2007-02-10 00:16:32 · answer #2 · answered by MT C 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Just jump right in! I would sand it down (easier than stripping). Pick out what color of stain you want to re-do it in. You can buy samples of stain for about 25 cents in most places. I think the three step staining process works best. 1) Wood conditioner, base coat 2) Color 3) Finish, top coat. Take your time and follow the directions on the stain, but it's pretty easy. It's not that hard, you can do it!
Good luck!
2007-02-10 10:08:43 · answer #3 · answered by Bec 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sand it to a semi smooth finish and wipe free of loose particles and dust. Then but the right type of stain from a home improvement store. Ask for an employee in that department for help in choosing the right kind to use.
2007-02-10 02:16:02 · answer #4 · answered by keys_2_heaven 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you have antique furniture it is best not to touch up in any way if you do it can lower the value as much as 80%
2007-02-10 02:42:13 · answer #5 · answered by aussie 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋