How To Refinish An Old School Desk

As a DIY enthusiast, I love to find old furniture and give it new life. Recently, I came across an old school desk at a flea market and knew I had to have it. It was in rough shape, but I saw potential in it. Refinishing it was a challenge, but the end result was worth it.

Step by Step Guide

1. Remove any hardware or attachments from the desk.

2. Sand the desk down to bare wood using a coarse grit sandpaper.

3. Use a finer grit sandpaper to smooth out the surface.

4. Clean the desk thoroughly with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris.

5. Apply a wood conditioner to the desk to prepare it for staining.

6. Apply the stain using a brush or cloth, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

7. Allow the stain to dry completely before applying a sealant.

8. Apply the sealant using a brush or cloth, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

9. Allow the sealant to dry completely before applying a second coat.

10. Reattach any hardware or attachments to the desk.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas

1. Choose the right stain:

Consider the type of wood and your desired finish when choosing a stain.

2. Use a pre-stain conditioner:

This will help prevent blotches and ensure an even finish.

3. Apply the stain evenly:

Use a brush or cloth to apply the stain in even strokes.

4. Don’t rush the drying process:

Allow each coat of stain and sealant to dry completely before applying the next.

5. Sand between coats:

Use a fine grit sandpaper to lightly sand between coats for a smooth finish.

6. Protect your work area:

Use a drop cloth to protect your work area from any spills or drips.

7. Consider adding a design:

Try stenciling or painting a design onto the desk for a unique touch.

8. Use quality materials:

Invest in quality stain and sealant for a long-lasting finish.

9. Don’t forget the hardware:

Clean and polish any hardware before reattaching it to the desk.

10. Have fun with it:

Refinishing furniture can be a fun and rewarding experience. Enjoy the process!

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Refinishing an old school desk can give it new life and save it from being thrown away. It is also a fun and creative DIY project.

Cons:

Refinishing furniture can be time-consuming and messy. It can also be expensive if you need to purchase new materials or tools.

My Personal Review and Suggestion

Refinishing my old school desk was a challenging project, but the end result was worth it. The desk now looks brand new and has become one of my favorite pieces of furniture. My suggestion would be to take your time and invest in quality materials. It will make a big difference in the end result.