Jesse Bluma at Pointe Viven: My Bob Vila Table

My Bob Vila Table

The old look--the original 1970s or 1980s table above. I received the table from a good friend at work, Janice, shortly after moving into my home. It was much appreciated.

The changed look.

Shortly after getting the brown table I refurbished it.

How to Refurbish a Table

1. Lightly sand the table and chairs outside using 160 grit sandpaper, in the direction of the wood grain. The direction of the grain is read by looking at the point or ray of the ring lines.

2. Vacuum the dust off the table and chairs using the brush attachment.

3. Use a somewhat damp cloth to wipe off any remaining dust, too damp may cause bubbling in the wood. Allow to dry 24 hours.

4. Paint the table in a well ventilated area with a primer, follow directions on the paint can. A quality smooth roller is important to use on a smooth surface. Allow to thoroughly dry. Remember to wipe the primer off the rim of the can before resealing. (Primer I used: KILZ)

5. Paint table top and base with water-based latex paint, follow the grain of wood. Again, use a smooth roller on a smooth surface. Again, wipe the paint off the rim of the can so it does not stick the lid shut for good. Keep the paint chip in a file for future reference. (Color above: Gobi Desert by Behr)

6. Stain the trim and the chairs with gel stain, follow grain of wood. Keep the stain chip in a file for future reference. (Color above and below: Mahogany 605 by Minwax)

7. Allow paint and gel stain to thoroughly dry, this may take a few days due to humidity, temperature, ventilation, and thickness of applied paint.

8. Apply a clear wood finish to protect the wood, follow directions on can. A nylon brush is usually best. Remember only to use finish in a well ventilated area. Apply six to twelve thin coats of gloss finish, allowing to dry between coats. Patience is a virtue. (Type above and below: Gloss by Deft)

Over time I was ready for something new, such as a stainless steel table. These can run into the thousands of dollars. Instead I decided to refurbish the table again by following the same process as above. I kept the trim and chair stain mahogany. It is difficult to tell the difference between a real stainless steel table and my painted version. The use of several glossy coats of wood finish helps with the illusion. I think Bob Vila would approve. (New color below: Thundercloud Metallic Paint)