How to restore a wooden table

Restoring a wooden table is one of those tasks that bring a piece of furniture back to life and, at the same time, to the history behind it. You don't need to be an expert to get a good result: with a little time, the right tools and some pampering, you can transform a worn piece into the centerpiece of your dining room.

At Roble-Store we believe that wood furniture, especially solid oak furniture, is built to last. With proper care, restoring a wooden table can be easier than it looks and the result is worth it.

Here we tell you step by step how to restore a wooden table to recover its natural shine without losing its essence:

1. Deep cleaning

Before starting, clean the surface thoroughly with a soft cloth and a mixture of warm water with a little neutral soap or white vinegar. This will remove grease, dust or old wax residue.
If the table has stubborn stains, you can rub gently with a non-abrasive sponge.

2. Smooth sanding

Sanding is key to remove old varnish, scratches and restore the natural texture of the wood.
Start with a medium grit sandpaper (120) and finish with a finer one (220) always following the direction of the grain.
When the surface is smooth and uniform, remove the dust with a dry cloth.

3. Repair of imperfections

If there are cracks or dents, fill them with wood filler of the same color and let them dry before sanding again.
On antique tables, it is advisable to keep some small marks: they are part of its history and give it authenticity.

4. Apply the finish

Here comes the most important moment: choosing the finish that best suits the use of the table.

. Natural oil: penetrates the wood, enhances the grain and leaves a warm feel.

. Wax: Adds shine and light protection, perfect for a rustic or vintage style.

. Matt or satin varnish: Creates a durable, easy-to-clean coating, ideal for dining tables.

Apply the product with a brush or cloth, let it dry and, if necessary, repeat a second coat.

How to restore an antique wooden table

Restoring an antique wooden table requires a little more patience, but the result is usually spectacular. These pieces are usually made of hardwoods such as oak or walnut, and restoring them to their original splendor is a worthwhile craft.

Respect the history of the furniture

Before you begin, take a good look at the condition of the table. If it has carved details or worn areas, avoid trying to make it "perfect": these imperfections tell its story and are part of its charm.

2. Delicate cleaning

On very old tables, avoid chemical products. Use a cloth with warm water and neutral soap or a mixture of vinegar and linseed oil. If the surface has several layers of paint or varnish, use a natural paint stripper and a wooden spatula to avoid damaging the base.

3. Hydration and protection

After cleaning and sanding, moisturize the wood with linseed oil or natural beeswax. These products deeply nourish and restore the elasticity lost over the years.
Finish by polishing with a cotton cloth for a soft, natural shine.

4. Preserve its character

Avoid covering the surface completely with thick varnishes or opaque paints. The beauty of an antique table lies in its patina, in those small marks that time has left. Restoring does not mean erasing its history, but preserving it.

Restoring a large large wooden table o small is a simple and sustainable way to extend the life of your furniture and recover its original charm.

On Roble-Store we bet on noble materials and natural finishes, because we believe that every piece of wood has a story that deserves to be told.