Refinishing My Dining Room Table | Part 2

The moment has arrived!!! I finished my kitchen table …and yes, we can finally sit down as a family for dinner again. It’s been a lot of standing and eating while the boys ate at the kitchen island for a couple weeks, but it was totally worth it.

We last discussed the process of stripping and sanding. Now, I’m going to talk about the finishing work. You want your surface to be sanded and smooth to the touch. Make sure you clean all the dust off of it before you apply your stain or finish.

I used a small brush and swept it really well. Then I used an old lightly damp rag to pick up any remaining dust.

I really liked the natural wood look so I decided against going with a stain. I just applied a light, clear polyurethane finish with a spunge.

I like the sponge because it doesn’t leave any brush strokes. This type of sponge brush works the best for a natural smooth look.

Even though the polyurethane says it has a clear finish it did darken the wood just a little bit …but just the right amount. So, be aware of that.

Now for the the best part … the Before and After!!!

Here’s the before, again (stained back in 2002).

Here’s the After!

I love the contrast against the wood floor. And it coordinates so well with my kitchen stools.

It flows with the other tones in the room. I love how the heaviness of the darker color is gone and the raw natural grains are exposed so they can be enjoyed.

It’s not hidden anymore. It’s visible, soft and even more beautiful now. I’m so, so glad I took the time to refinish it. I think we’ll hold on to it a little while longer. 🙂

Have a fabulous weekend everyone!

XO,

Melessa