How to Restore Wood Furniture

Step 3: Apply your desired finish (stain, paint or varnish)

Once your surface is prepared, it’s time to decide how you want to finish your piece. You can either stain, paint, or varnish it, depending on the look you're going for.

If you want to highlight the natural beauty of the wood, staining is a great option. Choose a stain that complements the wood’s natural colour, whether you're going for a light, dark, or weathered look. Apply the stain with a lint-free cloth or foam brush, allowing it to soak into the wood for a few minutes. Afterward, wipe off any excess to achieve your desired colour. For a deeper shade, you can apply multiple coats, allowing each to dry completely before applying the next. A light sanding between coats ensures a smooth finish.

If painting is more your style, make sure to prime the wood first if it’s unfinished or if you’re changing from a dark to a light colour. Use thin, even coats of paint, letting each layer dry before adding the next. Sanding lightly between coats helps achieve a smooth, professional finish.

For those who prefer a durable, protective finish, varnishing is an excellent choice. Polyurethane provides water-resistant protection, while shellac offers a natural finish. Apply thin coats of varnish, sanding lightly between layers to ensure a smooth, durable surface.

Step 4: Add finishing touches and reassemble 

Once the finish is completely dry, you can reassemble the furniture by reinstalling any hardware you removed earlier. If the hardware looks worn, you might want to clean or even replace it for a fresh look. Adding felt pads to the feet of your furniture will also help protect it from scratches and damage, especially on wooden floors.

To enhance the shine, apply a wood polish or wax to the surface for added protection and a gleaming finish. These finishing touches will ensure your piece not only looks good but is also ready for daily use.