How to Refinish a Pine-covered Coffee Table

Set the table on a heavy-duty drop cloth in a well-ventilated area, such as a garage. Apply a coat of gel stain remover, or stripper. Brush the product on the wood and allow the label-recommended working time. Work in sections small enough to complete before the product dries. Work the stripper into any detailed areas with a small brush. Use gloves when working with strippers to prevent contact with skin. Follow the label directions for best results.

Scrape the stripper and old finish off the table's surface, using a chemical-resistant plastic scraper. Dispose of the scrapings in a metal container with a lid. Use a nylon scrubber to work in the detail areas. A used toothbrush works well for small details. Rinse the surface of the coffee table with a rag dampened in mineral spirits.

Sand the surface of the coffee table with progressively finer sand paper -- from 100 grit to 150 grit, to 200 grit -- in successive passes. A random-orbit sander will give best results on larger surfaces. Sand corners and other details by hand. Brush the sawdust from the surface of table with a dry soft-bristle brush.

Apply a coat of stain with a fine-bristle brush. Use long, straight strokes in overlapping rows. Rub the excess stain from the surface of the coffee table with a clean, soft rag. Allow the stain to dry as the label recommends. Successive coats can be applied to darken the color if desired.

Lightly sand the surface of the table by hand with 220-grit paper to smooth any grain that may have been raised during the staining process. Use a dry soft-bristle brush to remove the dust from the surface.

Apply at least two coats of clear furniture finish. Clear finishes are available in a variety of sheens, from flat to high-gloss. Choose a finish that suits the coffee table and complements the rest of your interior. Use a fine-bristle brush to apply the finish in smooth, even coats. Be careful not to allow the finish to build up, causing runs and drips. Allow the recommended drying time between coats, and after the last coat, before using the coffee table.