How to Remodel a Buffet Table

Wash the buffet with trisodium phosphate to get rid of any sticky residue and dirt on the buffet. Use a regular sponge and bucket to wash the buffet. Rinse with plain water and dry thoroughly.

Remove the buffet's hardware using a screwdriver. Set the hardware aside if you are going to use it again.

Fill any damage to the buffet with wood filler using a putty knife. Work the filler into the holes by laying it. Scrape the blade of the putty knife across the wood and filler to level it. Allow the putty to dry according to the package instructions.

Sand the entire buffet starting with 80-grit sandpaper. Follow with 100-grit and 220-grit sandpaper to get a smooth and even surface. Wipe the buffet with a tack cloth to remove sanding dust.

Apply a water-based primer to the furniture using a paintbrush or small sponge roller. Give the buffet an even coat. Use untinted primer so you can paint the buffet with two colors.

Paint the top of the buffet dark brown using enamel paint. Use a sponge roller or paintbrush. Allow the paint to cure before applying a second coat. Most paint cures in 8 to 12 hours.

Apply antique white paint to the bottom half of the buffet using a bristle paintbrush so you can work the paint into the detailing on the sides and legs. Allow the paint to cure for 8 to 12 hours, and then apply a second coat.

Install your new hardware to the buffet using a screwdriver.