Things You'll Need

Instructions

1

Clean the table with a gentle soap and water. Use mineral spirits and a clean rag if dirt and old varnish have settled deeply into the wood grain. Painted surfaces, especially with many layers, may require a paint stripper. Use mineral spirits and paint strippers in well-ventilated areas. Allow the tabletop to dry completely before moving to the next step.
2

Sand the dry tabletop until the surface is smooth and free of any old varnish. Sanding by hand is a tedious job, but gives the piece a hand-crafted appeal. Use a power sander for a quick project. Sand carefully and thoroughly because this step will dictate the table's final look.
3

Clean the tabletop with a damp rag. As you wipe the tabletop clean, check for any areas needing more work. Don't skip over a rough or discolored area for the sake of time. Go back and sand any areas where stains have damaged the wood and sand the stain away as much as possible.
4

Decide on the stain color for the tabletop (unless you plan to paint the top). Make certain the table's surface has been wiped completely free of dust from the sanding. Apply the stain according to the manufacturer's directions. Apply two or even three coats until the wood takes on the desired color.
5

Apply polyurethane to the tabletop once the stain has dried completely. Polyurethane protects the tabletop from water and other damage. Tables meant for meals need several coats of polyurethane. Some polyurethane gives a shiny effect, while others are tinted with a matte finish. Read the label and directions thoroughly before applying. Apply the polyurethane to a clean, dry surface. Wipe with a lightly damp cloth if any dust has settled on the top after staining. Allow the polyurethane to dry completely between coats.