When DIY Goes Wrong: Common Mistakes in Refinishing Tables

Refinishing a table can seem like a fun and rewarding DIY project — until it isn’t. While the idea of transforming an old piece of furniture into something fresh and stylish is appealing, many DIY enthusiasts quickly discover that refinishing is more challenging than it appears. From uneven sanding to the wrong type of finish, even minor mistakes can compromise the final look and reduce the lifespan of your table.

If you’re considering refinishing your dining, coffee, or live-edge table, here are the most common mistakes to avoid — and what to do instead.

1. Skipping the Prep Work

One of the biggest mistakes in any refinishing project is rushing through the prep stage. Old finishes, oils, or dirt can prevent new stains or coatings from adhering properly.

What goes wrong: You’ll end up with a blotchy, uneven surface that peels or flakes over time.

What to do instead:

• Clean the surface thoroughly with a mild cleaner.

• Strip off old finishes using the appropriate remover.

• Sand evenly with a fine-grit sandpaper, always following the wood grain.

2. Using the Wrong Type of Finish

Choosing the right finish is more than just about looks; it affects how your table performs over time.

What goes wrong: A finish that’s too soft can scratch easily, while one that’s too glossy might highlight imperfections.

What to do instead:

• Opt for a durable polyurethane or hardwax oil finish that can handle daily wear.
  

• Always test your chosen finish on a small, hidden area first.

3. Skipping Between Sanding Grits

Many DIYers make the mistake of jumping from coarse sandpaper straight to a fine grit or skipping grits entirely.

What goes wrong: The surface might look smooth but will still have tiny scratches that become more noticeable after staining.

What to do instead:
Start with coarse grit (around 80) to remove imperfections, then move up gradually to 120 and 220 grits. Each step removes marks from the previous grit for a silky-smooth result.

4. Applying Too Much Stain or Finish

More isn’t always better. Over-applying stain or finish can leave your table sticky, uneven, or streaky.

What goes wrong: Excess stain sits on the surface instead of soaking into the wood, leading to blotches and longer drying times.

What to do instead:

• Apply thin coats with a lint-free cloth or brush.

• Wipe off excess stain promptly.

• Allow proper drying time between coats.

5. Ignoring Wood Type and Grain Direction

Different woods absorb stains differently, and the grain pattern plays a major role in the final appearance.

What goes wrong: Uneven colour tones and patchy finishes that make even high-quality wood look cheap.

What to do instead:

• Identify your wood species before refinishing.

• Always follow the direction of the grain while sanding and staining.

• Use pre-stain conditioners for woods like pine or maple that absorb unevenly.

6. Not Allowing Proper Drying Time

Impatience can ruin even the best refinishing jobs.

What goes wrong: Sticky finishes, fingerprints, or dust particles get trapped in the coating.

What to do instead:
Follow the product instructions carefully, giving each coat the full recommended drying time. If you’re working in a humid area, allow extra time before handling or using your table.

Final Thoughts

DIY refinishing can be a rewarding experience, but it’s also one of those projects where experience makes all the difference. If your table has deep scratches, water damage, or you simply want a professionally finished surface, explore custom, handcrafted tabletops from Tableco.

From solid wood to veneer tops, each piece is built to last and finished with expert precision — no sanding mishaps or uneven staining required.