A solid old table found at a boot sale often has plenty of life left in it. It may be scratched, marked with rings from cups or dulled by years of polish. These marks are usually only on the surface and can be dealt with at home. With a little patience, you can give it a finish that suits your own kitchen.
First, look closely at the table before you start. Rock it gently to check that the legs are firm, and tighten any joints that move. Look underneath for signs of woodworm or damp, because these can make a table unsafe to use. Once you are sure the table is sound, clear a space outdoors or in a well-aired room.
Stripping back and smoothing
Wipe the surface with a damp cloth to remove dust and grease, and let it dry. Then sand the top and edges by hand, moving with the grain of the wood rather than across it. Begin with coarse paper to remove old varnish, and finish with a finer grade. Wear a mask and open a window, as fine dust is unpleasant to breathe.
Brush away the dust with a dry brush and wipe the table once more with a slightly damp cloth. Any dust left behind will show up under the new finish. Choose a finish that suits how you use the table, such as oil for a natural look or paint for a new colour. Apply it in thin, even coats along the grain, and let each coat dry fully.
Read the instructions on the tin and work in a room with plenty of fresh air. Protect the floor with old sheets or spare newspaper. Keep children and pets away until the surface is dry. Wash your brushes carefully when you have finished, or they will harden and be ruined. Leaving the table to dry overnight in a dust-free spot gives the best result.
Once the finish is dry, put the table in its new place and enjoy the change. A few felt pads under the legs protect both the table and the floor. Wipe up spills promptly and use mats under hot dishes, so that the finish stays smooth for years. Reviving a second-hand table like this spares an old piece from being thrown away.
