Prep It - Proper Furniture Refinishing

I promised you a look inside when it comes to furniture refinishing.  I explained in a previous post that I strongly believe in prepping my pieces for durability because I want them to last. There is no point in paying someone to refinish a piece that is not going to last.  Regardless of what you pay, it will simply not be worth it.

Yes, preparation is more labour intensive. Yes, preparation adds time to a project duration so yes, you will have to wait a little longer. On the plus side your piece will be given an extended life.

I will attempt to sum up my finishing process into a tight little bundle but do keep in mind. it can vary based on the products used, the original state of the furniture, whether it's being painted or stained or both (tabletop versus base, for instance), the number of repairs, the desired finishes, etc....

1. Remove hardware and thoroughly clean the piece.

There isn't a paint, stain, or gel that is going to adhere to your furniture if it is not cleaned properly. It has to be completely degreased.

Removing the hardware keeps the new finish off it, lets us get into all those nooks and crannies and gives you a smoother surface.

2. Clean hardware if reinstalling.

3. Light sanding, heavy sanding or stripping.

It's going to require this.  Guaranteed.  For maximal adhesion, you want me to do this.

4. Repairs

Fill in cracks, holes, tighten screws, evaluate and fix.

5. Made repairs?

Then we need to sand those areas again.

6. Clean again.

All that dust from sanding or the stripping residue needs to come off.

7. Prep to Start

This is when we prime or condition the wood depending on the finish and colours you've selected. Priming is especially important on your dark and red woods as there can be significant bleed through when painting.

This is the most expensive Chalk Paint on the market.  It was painted on without priming or prepping first.  See the bleed through and roughness? Credit: HomeStories

8. Get Going

This where the magic starts to happen.  Applying the stain or paint. Nice, long strokes. Being careful not to glob, repaint wet areas, or generally mess-up.  Then you wait for it to dry.  Depending on the manufacturer, this can be several hours or overnight.  Don't forget that temperatures and humidity levels can greatly affect drying and application.

9. Sand Again...

"WHAT?!  But my neighbour told me that Chalk Paint was a one coat, smooth, no prep required application. I'm not done?!"  Noooooo.....if you want a smooth finish that will last forever, you will now sand, CLEAN, and re-apply another coat.  You want this:

Perfectly smooth finish by Phancy Design

And NOT this:

Gloppy, choppy, one coat 

10. So yes, you are sanding again and applying (hopefully) your last coat.  The colour you choose will dictate whether another coat or touch ups need to be applied.  And guess what? You sand again before applying your wax or poly finish coat.

IMPORTANT NOTE: If you are looking for a faux finish, this will often require additional colours blended in so it's a little (a lot, really) more detailed.  Like this?

This is a five colour, multi sanding, dry brushing, wet distressing finish. Intense but ultimately worth it.  But, takes time.

11. Finishing

You might elect for a wax or poly finish.  I much prefer poly as it dries rock hard.  I cannot recommend waxing on any piece that is going to be used regularly.  It just won't hold up (tabletops, dresser tops, coffee or end tables).  Reserve your wax finishes for dresser fronts, decorative shelves or out of the way items.  Wax will need to be maintained so keep that in mind.  It's a commitment.

The poly finish is my favourite as it's durable, requires no more upkeep than regular dusting and is ideal for tabletops.  YES, sanding is required between each poly coat to give you that smooth finish. On a kitchen/dining table, I recommend a minimum of 4-5 coats of poly.  On a dresser top, 2 should do it.

12. Results

If you have the patience for it to be done properly, you will have a piece that will last and last.  And that's the point, right?  You can breathe new light into your grandma's buffet, your 1st bedroom set or that dining room table.

Do it once and do it correctly and you'll be thrilled for years to come!

13. LET IT CURE - letting your finish cure will also prolong it's durability.  Letting your piece rest for 30 days, prior to putting it to day to day use will greatly prolong its finish.  

** Each type of finish will vary and the steps above are noted to show you the value of finishing correctly.  Not all finishes will require that intensity although some may require more.  This post is merely to show you what can be involved with having the process carried out in the correct way, which will ultimately prolong the life of your treasures.  We are always happy to break down the process for you to help you better understand your quotes.  Just ask :-) **

Be kind, be well.