How to Make a New Kitchen Table Look Like an Antique

How to Make a New Kitchen Table Look Like an Antique

• 1

  Sand the kitchen table, unless it's an unfinished table, to remove paint or finish on the wood. Use a random orbital sander with 120 grit sandpaper first. Sand again using 220 grit sandpaper. Sand an unfinished table lightly with 220 grit sandpaper to prepare the surface. Wipe away any dust.

• 2

  Use a hammer and heavy chain to ding and damage the surface of the wood to create the heavily used look of an old table. Use light blows for minimal dings and scuffs. Use heavier blows for a more primitive look. Focus damage on common wear areas of the table, including edges, corners and lower legs, as well as around handles.

• 3

  Apply stain or paint to the kitchen table's surface. Use a wipe-on stain, applying a second coat if desired. Allow the stain or paint to dry thoroughly.

• 4

  Sand the surface lightly with a fine grit sandpaper. Use a coarser sandpaper to wear through paint on the corners, edges and other wear areas to expose the raw wood on a new kitchen table.

• 5

  Wipe on a matte polyurethane finish for a painted antiqued kitchen table. Wax or oil a new kitchen table for an authentic antique look on a stained finish.