How To Restain Wood Furniture Darker

Restoring and refinishing wood furniture is a viable alternative to purchasing new pieces. One of the simplest ways to revamp an existing piece is to restain it for a darker finish, giving it a more modern or traditional look. With a little preparation and the right materials, you can achieve a professional-looking finish at home.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to restain wood furniture darker:

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

- Sandpaper (120-grit, 220-grit) - Tack cloth - Pre-stain wood conditioner - Dark wood stain - Polyurethane finish - Foam brush or lint-free cloth - Gloves - Respirator mask - Mixing container and stir stick (if mixing stain) - Clean rags

Step 2: Prepare the Furniture

- Remove all hardware, such as handles, knobs, and hinges. - Clean the furniture thoroughly with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris. - Allow the furniture to dry completely.

Step 3: Sand the Furniture

- Sand the furniture with 120-grit sandpaper in the direction of the wood grain. - Use a fine-grit sandpaper (220-grit) to smooth out any scratches or rough spots. - Wipe away any sanding dust with a tack cloth.

Step 4: Apply Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner

- Apply a pre-stain wood conditioner to the furniture using a foam brush or lint-free cloth. - The pre-stain conditioner will help the stain penetrate evenly and prevent blotching. - Allow the conditioner to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Step 5: Apply Dark Wood Stain

- Mix the dark wood stain according to the manufacturer's instructions. - Apply a thin, even coat of stain to the furniture using a foam brush or lint-free cloth. - Wipe off any excess stain immediately with a clean rag. - Allow the stain to dry for the recommended time.

Step 6: Apply Polyurethane Finish

- Apply a thin coat of polyurethane finish to the furniture using a foam brush or lint-free cloth. - Allow the polyurethane to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions. - Sand lightly with 220-grit sandpaper and wipe away any sanding dust. - Apply a second coat of polyurethane finish and allow it to dry completely.

Step 7: Reassemble the Furniture

- Once the polyurethane finish has dried completely, reassemble the furniture by attaching the hardware.

By following these steps, you can successfully restain wood furniture to a darker finish, giving it a renewed look and extending its lifespan.