My Step-by-Step Guide to Wood Refinishing (and more!)

I used to stare at my worn-out coffee table every morning, thinking it needed hours of dusty sanding work. Maybe you feel the same way about your wood furniture right now. 

Last month, I learned two ways to bring old wood back to life – one with sanding for traditional folks like my dad, and a surprising method that skips sanding entirely! 

Yes, both ways work beautifully. And yes, you read that right! 

I’ve tested both techniques on different pieces in my home, from my grandmother’s rocking chair to my kitchen cabinets. The results? Equally impressive, but you get to choose how much elbow grease you want to put in.

Keep reading to learn both methods, plus I’ll share a bonus guide about choosing the right stain for wood refinishing.

Trust me, your furniture will thank you!

Benefits of Refinishing Your Wood Surfaces

Let me share why I started refinishing my own wood pieces instead of buying new ones. My budget and the environment both thanked me!

Cost Savings with Proof

I recently refinished my grandmother’s oak dining set.

Here’s the breakdown:

• Refinishing supplies: $45 ($25 stripper, $20 finish)
• New comparable dining set: $1,200-$1,500
• Total savings: Around $1,155
• Time invested: 6 hours spread over two days

Better Quality Results

I examined my 1960s dresser’s construction compared to a new $600 model:

• Old dresser: Solid oak with dovetail joints
• New dresser: Veneer over particle board
• The refinished piece has lasted 60+ years and counting
• Original wood grain shows natural patterns that new stains can’t copy

Environmental Benefits (With Numbers)

• One refinished dining table = 20-25 feet of mature wood saved
• Each project uses about 80% less energy than making new furniture
• My refinishing supplies fit in one bag vs. large furniture packaging
• Local supply runs vs. long-distance shipping (saved 300+ transport miles)

Protection Proof

I tested this on my coffee table.

• Water now beads up instead of soaking in
• Dust wipes off in one swipe vs. getting stuck in wood grain
• No new scratches in 6 months of daily use
• Original scratches filled and sealed, stopping further damage

How to Choose the Right Stain for Wood Refinishing

From testing dozens of stains on my own furniture, I’ve learned that picking the right one makes all the difference.

Let me break this down into simple steps that helped me avoid costly mistakes.

1. Know Your Wood Type: Each wood accepts stain differently. Here’s what I learned:

• Pine: Blotches easily – needs wood conditioner first
• Oak: Takes most stains well due to open grain
• Maple: Resists stain – light colors work best
• Cherry: Darkens naturally with age – go lighter than you want

Test First, Thank Yourself Later

I always follow this 3-step test method:

• Sand a hidden spot (bottom or back)
• Apply stain sample
• Wait 24 hours to see true color

2. Stain Types I’ve Tried

Oil-Based:

• Dries slowly (24-48 hours)
• Gives me time to fix mistakes
• Smells strong – needs good air flow

Water-Based:

• Dries fast (2-3 hours)
• Low odor – great for indoor projects
• Needs more coats for deep color

Here’s a Quick Tip: I keep a “sample board” of different stains on various woods. It helps me show clients exactly what they’ll get. You might want to make one too!

3. Color Selection Tips Based on Room Use:

• High-traffic areas: Darker colors hide wear better
• Small rooms: Lighter stains make spaces feel bigger
• Kitchens: Medium tones show less food stains
• Outdoor furniture: UV-resistant stains prevent fading

Want my top recommendation?

Start with a small project and test three different stain colors. It helped me understand how wood and stain work together before tackling bigger pieces.

Wood Refinishing at Home: Easy Instructions

Tools and Materials Required

Tools	Materials
Screwdriver	Degreaser (e.g., Simple Green)
Scraper	Chemical stripper (optional)
Tack cloth	Sandpaper (120-220 grit)
Orbital or detail sander	Shellac primer or sealer
Paintbrush	Paint or stain
Lint-free rags	Polycrylic (matte finish)
Drop cloth	Water-based paint (optional for wash)
HLP sprayer (optional)	Masking tape (optional)

Step by Step Instructions for Wood Refinishing with Sanding

1. Prepare the Workspace and Furniture

• Begin by selecting a well-ventilated workspace to avoid inhaling fumes. Lay down a drop cloth or plastic sheeting to protect your floors.
• Remove all hardware (knobs, handles, etc.) and store them in a labeled container for later use. Clear out the drawers and clean the furniture thoroughly using a degreaser like Simple Green. Wipe it down with warm water and a sponge to remove dirt and grime.

2. Strip the Finish

• Decide on your stripping method: use a chemical stripper for thick finishes or a scraper for easier-to-remove coatings. Apply the stripper evenly and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for wait times.
• Once the finish softens, use a scraper to remove it carefully, ensuring you work in the direction of the wood grain to avoid damage. Clean the surface again with a damp cloth to remove any residue.

3. Sand the Surface

Start with a coarse grit (e.g., 120-grit) to remove remaining finish and smooth imperfections. Gradually move to finer grits (e.g., 220-grit) for a polished surface. Use a detail sander or sand by hand to reach corners and intricate areas.

Always, always sand with the grain for the best results.

4. Address Problem Areas

Inspect the wood for tannin bleed-through (common in woods like cherry).

Apply a shellac-based primer or sealer to prevent stains from leaching into your paint or stain. Allow it to dry between coats and apply at least two coats for thorough coverage.

5. Apply a Wash for Color Adjustment

If the wood has an undesired hue (e.g., red tones), neutralize it by applying a diluted wash of an opposing color (e.g., green for red tones).

• Mix paint with water in the desired ratio (e.g., 1:4 for green wash) and brush it on.
• Wipe back excess with a lint-free rag.

6. Finish with Desired Paint or Stain

• After the wash dries, apply your chosen paint or stain.
• Use a paint wash for a semi-transparent look or full-strength paint for solid coverage.

Remember: Work in even strokes with a high-quality brush or roller, wiping excess as needed to maintain an even tone.

7. Seal and Protect

Apply a durable topcoat such as polycrylic in a matte finish to preserve the wood’s appearance. Use a sprayer or brush to apply three even coats, allowing adequate drying time between layers.

This step ensures your furniture withstands daily use.

For a more detailed tutorial, check out the below video by Lemons To Lemonade Furniture:

My Simple No-Sand Method for Wood Makeovers (just for you!)

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace and Gather Tools

Tools	Materials
Drop cloths or tablecloths	TSP cleaner
Paintbrushes	Wood primer
Graining tool (optional)	Stain (e.g., Barnwood)
Paint (e.g., Misty River)	Clear poly topcoat
Lint-free cloths	Ziploc bags (for hardware)
Screwdriver	Masking tape (optional)

• Set up a clean, well-lit workspace. Use drop cloths or folded tablecloths to protect your surface.
• Place your furniture on the prepared workspace, and remove any drawers, hardware, or additional items. Store hardware safely in a labeled container.
• Clean the furniture thoroughly with TSP (trisodium phosphate) cleaner to remove grease, dirt, and grime. Wipe it down with a damp cloth and let it dry completely.

Step 2: Prime the Surface

• Apply a coat of wood primer to the areas you plan to refinish. Use a high-quality paintbrush for even coverage. If you’re staining the surface, focus on those specific sections.
• Allow the primer to dry for at least two hours. Wrap your brush in plastic wrap to keep it ready for the next coat. After the first layer has dried, apply a second coat for better coverage.

Step 3: Create the Wood Grain Effect (Optional)

• If desired, use a wood graining tool with your chosen stain. Apply the stain in sections using a brush, then drag the graining tool through it to mimic natural wood grain.
• Experiment with your technique—pull straight for simple grain or twist slightly to add knots. If you make an error, repaint the stain and start again.

Step 4: Paint the Remaining Surface

• Use a furniture-grade paint in your chosen color for the remaining areas. Apply a thin first coat and let it dry for about two hours.
• Once dry, add a second coat for a more polished and full-coverage finish.

Step 5: Seal the Surface

• Protect the finish with a clear poly topcoat. Apply three coats to areas that will see frequent use (like the top) and two coats for less-used sections.
• Use smooth, even strokes with a brush or sprayer, allowing each layer to dry completely before adding the next.

Step 6: Reassemble and Style

Reattach the hardware and place drawers or other components back in their slots. Style the piece with decorative items or practical uses in mind, honoring its updated appearance.

For a more detailed tutorial, check out the below video by Creative on the Cheap:

Maintaining Refinished Wood Surfaces

After refinishing over 30 pieces in my home over the past five years, I’ve developed a simple care routine that works.

My coffee table still looks fresh after three years of daily use with coffee cups, kid’s homework, and even the occasional pizza night. The best part? You don’t need fancy cleaners or special tools.

Here’s what actually works for me:

Simple Care Tips:

• Wipe spills right away – don’t let liquid sit for more than 5 minutes on the surface
• Clean with a soft, dry cloth first – I do this daily before using any cleaning products
• Skip the polish – use a slightly damp cloth with plain water for weekly cleaning
• Rotate items monthly – move vases, books, and decor to prevent sun spots
• Keep furniture out of direct sunlight – I use sheer curtains to filter harsh rays
• Check for loose joints every season – tighten screws and bolts before they become problems
• Use coasters and placemats – makes cleaning easier and prevents water rings
• Dust with an old cotton t-shirt – microfiber can sometimes scratch delicate finishes
• Control room humidity – I keep a small humidity gauge nearby and aim for 40-50%
• Touch up small scratches immediately – I keep a matching marker in my drawer for quick fixes

Remember: Less is more with wood care. Most damage I see comes from overcare, not undercare. Your refinished pieces mainly need protection from water, heat, and sun.

The Bottom Line

I started this furniture refinishing adventure in my garage with one wobbly chair. Now, looking at my restored pieces, I’m amazed at how simple changes can make such a big difference.

Remember, wood restoration isn’t just about making things look good – it’s about giving new life to pieces that might have stories to tell.

Whether you choose to sand or skip it, the key is just getting started.

Love DIY home projects? Check out my other guides on making your own Christmas tree stand, painting wood floors like a pro, drying rose petals for decor, and even keeping your Christmas tree fresh year-round.

Why not start with that old wooden piece you’ve been meaning to fix? Trust me, you’ll be surprised at what you can do!