Restoring Furniture with a Modern Twist

Hello, friends!

Today, I am excited to share with you a recent restoration project I completed that transformed a dated and dark dining table into a stunning piece with a light and airy vibe. My customer had owned this table for years and wanted to give it a fresh look that would reflect their evolving style.

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Please read all labels and follow all manufacturer safety recommendations when working with paints, stains & equipment and wear proper personal protection equipment. Viewers should attempt these projects at their own risk.

The first step in this transformation was to remove the old finish by sanding it off. This process not only helped to smooth the surface but also created a clean canvas for the new look. Beware, it’ll be messy! Make sure you wear a respirator, and are in a well-ventilated space.

On the right below, you’ll see how the table looked once all of the original finish was removed. Crazy!

To achieve the desired light and airy feel, I opted for a white wash technique. This involved applying a thin layer of white paint diluted with water to the sanded surface. The white wash added a beautiful touch of brightness while still allowing the natural wood grain to show through.

*To make a white wash, mix 1 part paint with 3 parts water. Flood the furniture with a water coat, then brush on the white wash, then wipe back in direction of grain with a clean cloth.*

Next, I stained the table twice using a provincial gel stain, which added depth and richness to the wood. This step helped to strike the perfect balance between a lighter overall appearance and a warm, inviting feel. After the staining, I applied a tan wash to further enhance the table's character and bring out its natural beauty.

After 2 coats with provincial gel stain.

And finally after one last wash of tan was added.

To protect the tabletop and ensure its durability, I sealed it with a matte polycrylic topcoat. This finish not only provided a protective layer but also added a soft, subtle sheen. For the legs, I chose to apply a dark wax, which created a beautiful contrast against the lighter top and added a touch of vintage charm.

The final touch to complete this stunning dining set will be the addition of black dining chairs. This choice will not only create a stylish contrast but also tie the whole look together. I am eagerly looking forward to seeing how the completed set will bring new life to my customer's dining space.

If you or someone you know is in need of furniture restoration services, follow Restore with Rachel. I would be thrilled to help you transform your furniture and bring your vision to life!

Thank you for joining me on this amazing journey of furniture restoration. Stay tuned for more inspiring projects, tips, and tricks on improving your home's aesthetics.

See you soon!

-Rachel