How To Sand And Stain Coffee Table - Coffee Table Design Ideas

How to Sand and Stain a Coffee Table

Sanding and staining a coffee table is a relatively simple but rewarding project that can give your old coffee table new life. There are just a few steps to follow. With a little time and effort, you can have a beautiful, updated coffee table that you can be proud of.

Materials You'll Need:

Sandpaper (80-grit, 120-grit, 220-grit)
Sanding block or orbital sander
Tack cloth
Wood stain
Polyurethane
Brush or roller

Instructions:

1. Prepare the surface

Remove any hardware from the coffee table, such as drawer pulls or knobs. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the surface of the table and remove any dirt or debris.

2. Sand the table

Start by sanding the table with 80-grit sandpaper. Use a sanding block or an orbital sander to get even, consistent results. Sand in the direction of the grain, and be sure to get into all the nooks and crannies.

Once you've sanded the table with 80-grit sandpaper, move on to 120-grit sandpaper. Sand the table again in the direction of the grain, and be sure to get into all the nooks and crannies.

Finally, sand the table with 220-grit sandpaper. This will help to smooth out the surface and prepare it for staining.

3. Wipe down the table

Once you've finished sanding the table, use a tack cloth to wipe away any dust or sanding residue. This will help to ensure that the stain adheres properly.

4. Apply the stain

Apply the stain to the table using a brush or roller. Be sure to follow the directions on the can of stain. Apply the stain in the direction of the grain, and be sure to get into all the nooks and crannies.

Allow the stain to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions.

5. Apply the polyurethane

Once the stain has dried, apply a coat of polyurethane to the table. Polyurethane will help to protect the stain and give the table a durable finish.

Allow the polyurethane to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions.

6. Reattach the hardware

Once the polyurethane has dried, reattach any hardware that you removed earlier.

Tips:

If you're not sure what grit sandpaper to use, start with a lower grit (80-grit) and work your way up to a higher grit (220-grit).
Be sure to sand in the direction of the grain to avoid scratching the wood.
Don't over-sand the table. You just want to remove the old finish, not the wood itself.
Follow the directions on the can of stain and polyurethane carefully.
Allow the stain and polyurethane to dry completely before using the table.

Sanding and staining a coffee table is a relatively simple but rewarding project that can give your old coffee table new life. With a little time and effort, you can have a beautiful, updated coffee table that you can be proud of.