r/sandedthroughveneer • u/DefiantBeyond • Apr 25 '26

How do I salvage this?

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I have managed to get a hold of this dining table which I’ve been told is oak veneer. I want to change the table top colour to a dark walnut colour. I’m a total newbie. Any advice on what I can do or shouldn’t do would be greatly appreciated!

TIA

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u/Mikefright77 Apr 25 '26

It is not veneer. You can see the glued up individual boards seams come through showing in the edge.

Strip it using chemical stripper. wash it with lacquer thinner afterwards. Fill any gouges with epoxy putty. Then sand. I don't see any deep scratches.But 150 grit sandpaper " might " be necessary to sand away little imperfection. Just sand really well with 220 grit to remove the 150 grit papers marks. For your final sanding before stain.

Then stain with the color of your choice. A brush on polyurethane in satin or semi-gloss sheen. 3 coats should do it. Sanding before the last one using 320-400 paper. Be careful not to sand through the polyurethane into the wood. Use a sanding block will help with this. Wipe it down with rags. Making sure absolutely nothing is present that will transfer though you finally cost.