How to refinish a European table?
Jul 18, 2025
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Hey there! As a supplier of European tables, I've seen my fair share of these beauties in various states. Sometimes, a table might have seen better days, but with a little TLC, it can be refinished to look as good as new. In this blog, I'm gonna walk you through the steps on how to refinish a European table.
Step 1: Assess the Table
First things first, you gotta take a good look at the table. Check for any scratches, dents, or areas where the finish has worn off. This will help you figure out what kind of refinishing process you'll need. If it's just a few minor scratches, you might be able to get away with a simple touch - up. But if the finish is really bad, you'll probably have to strip it and start from scratch.
Step 2: Gather Your Supplies
Once you know what you're dealing with, it's time to gather your supplies. You'll need some sandpaper in different grits (usually 80 - 120 grit for the initial sanding and 220 - 320 grit for a smooth finish), a paint stripper if you're going to strip the old finish, a putty knife for scraping, a clean cloth for wiping, and a good quality finish like varnish or oil. You can also check out some screen furniture on our website for some inspiration on how to style your refinished table.
Step 3: Prepare the Workspace
Find a well - ventilated area to work in. Refinishing can be a messy job, so lay down some drop cloths to protect the floor. You don't want to get paint stripper or sanding dust all over the place. Make sure you have enough space to move around the table freely.
Step 4: Stripping the Old Finish (if necessary)
If the table's finish is really damaged or you want to change the color completely, you'll need to strip it. Put on some gloves and safety goggles, and apply the paint stripper according to the instructions on the can. Use the putty knife to scrape off the old finish once it starts to bubble. Be careful not to scratch the wood. Keep scraping until all the old finish is gone. Then, wipe the table down with a clean cloth to remove any residue.
Step 5: Sanding
Now it's time to sand the table. Start with the coarser grit sandpaper (80 - 120 grit) to smooth out any rough spots and remove any remaining finish. Sand in the direction of the wood grain. Once you've sanded the whole table with the coarse grit, switch to a finer grit (220 - 320 grit) for a smoother finish. Sanding is important as it helps the new finish adhere better to the wood.
Step 6: Filling in Imperfections
While sanding, you might notice some small holes or dents. Use a wood filler to fill these in. Apply the filler with a putty knife, and smooth it out. Let it dry completely according to the instructions on the filler package. Then, sand the filled areas lightly to make them even with the rest of the table.


Step 7: Applying the New Finish
There are different types of finishes you can choose from, like varnish, oil, or lacquer. Varnish gives a hard, durable finish, while oil gives a more natural look. Read the instructions on the finish product carefully. Use a brush or a cloth to apply the finish evenly to the table. Start with a thin coat and let it dry. You may need to apply several coats, sanding lightly between each coat to ensure a smooth finish.
Step 8: Let It Cure
After applying the final coat of finish, let the table cure for the recommended time. This could be anywhere from a few days to a week, depending on the type of finish you used. During this time, avoid putting anything on the table or moving it around too much.
Step 9: Styling the Table
Once the table is fully refinished and cured, it's time to style it. You can pair it with some Mobile Office Chairs for a modern look or add some Wooden doors in the background to create a cohesive European - style space.
Why Choose Our European Tables
As a supplier of European tables, we take pride in offering high - quality products. Our tables are made from the finest woods and crafted with traditional European techniques. Refinishing our tables is not only a way to restore their beauty but also to make them unique to your style. Whether you're looking for a table for your office or your home, we have a wide range of options to choose from.
Contact Us for Procurement
If you're interested in purchasing our European tables or have any questions about the refinishing process, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to help you find the perfect table for your needs and guide you through any refinishing projects you might have. Our team of experts can offer advice on the best finishes and techniques for your specific table.
References
- "Wood Finishing: The Complete Guide" by Robert W. Lang
- "The Furniture Bible" by David Charlesworth
