How To Refinish An Old Lane Cedar Chest

Overview

Refinishing an old Lane cedar chest is a great way to update the look of a treasured family heirloom and make it look like new again. Whether you want to keep the original cedar finish or opt for a different stain color, the process is the same. The steps below will help you to properly refinish an old Lane cedar chest.

Preparing the Surface

The first step is to prepare the surface of the chest. To do this, you will need to remove all the hardware and sand the entire surface with medium-grit sandpaper. Be sure to sand in the direction of the wood grain and not across it. You will also want to remove any dirt or dust that has accumulated on the chest. Once the chest is sanded and clean, you can proceed to the next step.

Staining the Chest

The next step is to apply a stain to the chest. You can choose to keep the original cedar finish or opt for a different stain color. If you are going to keep the original finish, you can simply apply a coat of clear polyurethane to protect the wood. If you are changing the color of the stain, you will need to apply two coats of a stain that is designed for cedar. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next one.

Finishing the Chest

Once the chest is stained, you can apply a finishing coat. If you are keeping the original cedar finish, you will need to use a clear polyurethane to protect the wood. If you are changing the color of the stain, you will need to use a finishing coat that is designed for cedar. Apply two coats of the finishing coat, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next one.

Reinstalling the Hardware

Once the finishing coat is applied, you can then reinstall the hardware. Make sure that all the screws and bolts are tightened securely. You may want to add a coat of wax to the hardware to protect it from rust. Once the hardware is reinstalled, the refinishing process is complete.

Conclusion

Refinishing an old Lane cedar chest is a great way to update the look of a treasured family heirloom and make it look like new again. The process is not difficult and can be completed in just a few steps. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily refinish an old Lane cedar chest and restore it to its original beauty.