How to finish a wooden table?

[DIYNoob1]

Hi, I am in desperate need for advice. 

I built a wooden coffee table years ago during a woodworking class and my family has been using it ever since. It’s gotten very stained due to everyday use and I never actually learned how to finish the project and so it’s all bare wood. I’m hoping if I sand it, the stains will come out but I don’t know anything about what else I need to do to protect the table. I also wanted to paint it with some kind of geometric design so I don’t know if I should paint it first or apply anything else. Basically, I’m really confused, any advice would be appreciated, thank you. 

[JacobZ]

Hi @DIYNoob1,

Thank you for your question and welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community, it is fantastic to have you with us.

Have a read through How To Upcycle Furniture which advises on everything you'll need to get your project paint ready.

Do you have any photos of the table in its current condition that you can share? Let me know if you need a hand uploading images, I'm happy to help if required.

Sanding will usually be effective at removing surface-level stains. Start with 80 Grit Sandpaper to remove the surface stains. If you have deeper stains, Diggers Rust And Stain Cleaner can be used to remove the tougher stains.

Once sanded, clean the table of any sawdust then apply an undercoat such as Dulux 1Step Prep Primer, Sealer & Undercoat allowing it to fully dry before moving on to the next step.

You can then start on your geometric design. Using painter's tape is a great way to create designs that can be painted over and then removed to make clean lines.

When your geometric design is done, you can apply a clear coat such as this White Knight 310g Crystal Clear Acrylic Clear Gloss over the top to protect it all.

Let me know what you think and if you have further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

Jacob