RANCH OAK STYLE TABLE RE-DO

Stella heard the door open and she is excited to see you, my friend.  Welcome, today we are going to check out a small DIY project to get us started on the road to getting acquainted. 

 I tried my hand at a woodworking project at the early age of nine and I have the scars to prove it! I wanted to make a table as a surprise for my mother. I got my little red Radio Flyer ready and headed out to our local lumberyard.  In those days the lumbermen would let me come in to their work area and pick up the scrap wood left from a days work.  Off I went gathering up my wood treasures.  When I was sure I had all the right pieces, I headed home for the big project. I knew exactly what I was going to make, so I had the nails and hammer ready.  I assembled the pieces just so...  bam bam bam away I went on my creative journey. All was going great until I decided one leg needed my hand to hold it steady..BAM..went the nail right into my little nine year old palm. Well, yepper, my mom was surprised all right. The screams got her attention, she got a wobbly table and I got a bandage. Did I stop my treks to the lumberyard, absolutely not and it is still one of my favorite places to visit.
Let's get started.

 

 

SMALL RANCH OAK STYLE NEGLECTED TABLE

NECESSARY TOOLS

I always use gloves and a mask when messing with chemicals.  I did not when I was younger, but wisdom came with a price.

 
I start cleaning the project piece ( if really nasty)with Murphy's Oil Soap.  Do this in the shade and with as little water as possible. After the piece is dry, I take a clean rag and go over it with a light touch of paint thinner. After all my years doing refinishing projects, I have found a number of things which just plain work. Finally, I give it a light sanding with fine grit sandpaper .Go over once more with a light touch of paint thinner.  I usually use Minwax finish products.  On this little table I chose Golden Pecan.

                                         After stain is dry I apply a thin coat of polyurethane.

                                          After the protective coat is dry, I add a coat of paste wax.
                                          I am going to share a SECRET with you. Years ago I discovered
                                          when I placed a piece of fine steel wool in a nylon stocking
                                          and rubbed my project piece vigorously, a wonderful patina
                                          occurred. the action of the nylon against the paste wax creates
                                          a fabulous finish as well as a super protective one. My wax of
                                          of choice is Briwax, but any good paste wax will do. You who
                                          are into PAINTED finishes, will find this step a great bonus as it
                                          adds even more character.  I will show you in my next project.

 

Nylon and steel wool secret.

You can see how the wood grain becomes beautiful

and the metal button glistens. The finished project is now

ready to enjoy.

 

Thanks for stopping by to visit today. Stella sees a squirrel, gota go.. See you later....