How to Finish an Oak Kitchen Table

Draw the most beauty from your oak kitchen table and protect it from moisture and abrasion by finishing it with oil-based stain. Before you get started, consider the following. Like other hardwoods, oak possesses dense wood grains that cause uneven stain absorption. Combat this occurrence by applying a light color of stain. Once you've enhanced the table's appearance, protect it from wear by applying a glossy coat of varnish. Employ the proper prep and application strategies that work to promote a smooth finish, free from drips and runs.

Instructions

1

Move the oak table from the kitchen to a ventilated area, such as an open garage or patio.

2

Wipe down the vanity with a tack cloth, effectively removing dust that inhibits absorption.

3

Use a sticky tack cloth to wipe dust from the oak.

4

Place plastic drop cloths on the ground. Cover these with heavy-duty fabric drop cloths. Place the table on top.

5

Coat the oak kitchen table with a light-colored oil-based stain. Use a paintbrush that has natural bristles. Brush with vertical strokes. Smooth runs and drips as you apply. Apply only a thin coat to prevent an excess of drips and runs.

6

Wipe the wet stain from the oak, using clean cloth rags. Wait at least four hours for the table to dry.

7

Use mineral spirits to wash stain from the brush.

8

Coat the stained kitchen table with varnish, using the clean brush. Wait at least four hours for the oak to dry.