How to Restore an Oak Dining Table

Step 1

Put a rag or sheet down directly underneath your project.

Step 2

In long strides, scrape the furniture with a carbide scraper, in the same direction of the grain. *See notes above or follow video below on how to use it.

Step 3

Repeat until you have removed all shiny lacquer or paint, scratches, ring marks etc. If you have any dints, you may need to fill with a natural colour wood filler.

Step 4

Once you're happy with your piece, sand everywhere with 120 grit using an orbit sander until smooth.

Step 5

If you have any damage on the edges or your piece, you may want to consider routering them out. I.e., I had to use a 45 degree router bit to remove damage, while giving it a new profile.

Step 6

Now take the piece of furniture outside if possible and providing the weather forecast is dry. Remove any dust off your piece and apply Danish oil liberally everywhere with a lint free cloth.

Step 7

Leave for 20 minutes for the wood to soak in as much as possible and then wipe away any excess with a clean lint free cloth.

Step 8

Leave to dry for a minimum of 6 hours before applying another but thinner coat and repeat the timings.

Step 9

If you would like to use your piece outside, you will want to add more coats. But, if you want to varnish it, you will need to leave it to dry for a minimum of two weeks. If two coats is enough, put your newly restored furniture in place and leave it.