How To Refinish Old Veneer Furniture
How To Refinish Old Veneer Furniture
Introduction
Old veneer furniture, when in good condition, can often be a beautiful and timeless piece of furniture. Unfortunately, over time, old veneer furniture can become worn, scratched, and just look tired. The good news is that it is usually possible to refinish veneer furniture back to its original beauty. Refinishing veneer furniture can be a bit more complicated than refinishing solid wood furniture, but with a few tips and tricks, you can have your old furniture looking like new again.
Preparation
The first step in refinishing your old veneer furniture is to prepare the piece. This is an important step, and it is essential that you do it right. Start by cleaning the piece with a mild soap and water. Make sure you get rid of all the dirt and grime that has built up over time. Then, you will need to sand the surface of the piece. Start with a medium grit sandpaper and work your way up to a finer grit. This will help to remove any old finishes and give you a smooth surface to work with. Once you have finished sanding, wipe the piece down with a damp cloth to remove any dust.
Repair
Next, you will need to repair any damage that may be present on your furniture. If the veneer is chipped, cracked, or peeling, you will need to repair it. You can purchase veneer repair kits at most hardware stores, which will make the job much easier. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and use the provided tools and materials to ensure a successful repair. If the furniture has any structural damage, like broken legs or loose joints, you will need to repair those as well.
Stain
Once you have finished repairing the piece, the next step is to stain the furniture. This is an important part of the refinishing process, and it should be done carefully. Start by testing the stain on a small, inconspicuous part of the furniture. This will help you determine how the stain will look on the piece before you commit to it. Once you have found the right stain, apply it evenly to the surface of the piece, making sure to wipe away any excess. Allow the stain to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Varnish
The next step is to apply a protective varnish to the furniture. This will help to protect the wood and keep it looking beautiful for many years to come. Start by applying a thin coat of varnish, using a brush or a cloth. Allow the varnish to dry completely before applying a second coat. Once the piece is completely dry, you can buff it with a soft cloth to give it a beautiful shine.
Conclusion
Refinishing old veneer furniture is a great way to bring a piece back to life and make it look like new again. With a few simple steps and some patience, you can restore old furniture to its original beauty. Preparation, repair, staining, and varnishing are all important steps in the refinishing process. With the right tools and materials, you can have your old furniture looking like new in no time.
