Refinishing a Nightstand Top

Refinishing the top of a night stand can breathe new life into an old piece of furniture. A night stand comes in handy for holding nightly needs, such as a glass of water. While convenient, placing these items on the top can scratch and scar the surface of the small table. When this occurs, the top needs to be refinished. Make it a do-it-yourself project to save money on professional refurbishing.

Sandpaper (60,150 and 220 grit)
Hand or orbital sander
Newspaper
Masking tape
Paint sprayer or brush
Paint or stain
Clear coat
Clean rags

Instructions

- 1
  Wrap all but the top of the night stand with newspaper and secure it with tape. Push the edge of the newspaper almost to the top of the night stand and tape it down. Be sure to cover all the areas of the night stand that are not being refinished.
- 2
  Sand the top of the night stand, beginning with 60 grit paper. Use a hand or orbital sander to remove the clear coat and top coat of finish from the night stand. Wipe away the dust.
- 3
  Remove any stain or remaining top coat finish using 150 grit sandpaper on a hand or orbital sander. Sand evenly back and forth until all cover is removed.
- 4
  Smooth the top of the night stand using 220 grit sandpaper. Work slowly and smoothly to prepare the surface.
- 5
  Paint or stain the top of the night stand. If you are painting, use a paint sprayer to cover the top evenly. If you are staining, use a brush to cover the entire area. Allow it to dry for 24 hours.
- 6
  Add a clear coat to the top of the night stand. Spray or brush on a clear protective coat. Allow it to dry for 24 hours and then add a second layer of the clear coat. Allow it to dry for at least 24 hours before you use the night stand.

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