How to Refinish a Nightstand

Refinishing a nightstand can breathe new life into an old piece of furniture, adding character and charm to your living space. Whether you inherited a vintage piece that needs a little love or found a great deal at a flea market, a well-executed refinishing project can provide both satisfaction and a beautiful addition to your home.

This guide on how to refinish a nightstand will walk you through the essential steps and provide tips to ensure a professional-looking finish, from initial preparation to the final coat of varnish. With a little patience and elbow grease, you’ll transform an outdated nightstand into a standout feature that complements your decor.

Why Refinish a Nightstand?

Before we dive into the steps of refinishing, it’s worth considering why you should do it in the first place. A nightstand is often an overlooked piece of furniture, but with its practicality and versatility, it can be much more than just a place to put your lamp or book. By refinishing a nightstand, you can customize it to match your personal style, giving it a new purpose and making it stand out as a unique piece in your home.

It’s also an environmentally friendly option. Instead of buying a new piece of furniture, refinishing an old nightstand allows you to reduce waste and give it a new life. Plus, refinishing is usually more cost-effective than purchasing a brand-new piece.

Materials You Will Need

To refinish a nightstand, you will need some basic materials, including:

Sandpaper:

Choose a variety of grits to tackle different levels of sanding needed for your nightstand. Start with coarse grit and finish with fine grit for a smooth finish.

Protective Gear:

Protect yourself from dust and fumes by wearing a mask, safety glasses, and gloves.

Chemical Strippers:

These will be used to remove the old finish from your nightstand. Make sure to choose one that is appropriate for the type of wood you are working with.

Paint or Stain:

Decide on the color and type of finish you want for your nightstand. Water-based paint is a popular choice as it dries quickly, has less odor, and is easy to clean up. Stains come in a variety of shades and give a more natural look to the wood.

Varnish:

This will protect your nightstand from wear and tear, giving it a durable finish. Choose between matte, satin, or glossy varnish depending on your preference.

8 Step-by-step Guidelines on How to Refinish a Nightstand

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Before beginning your refinishing project, it’s crucial to set up a well-organized and safe workspace. Start by selecting a well-ventilated area, such as a garage or workshop, to ensure good airflow and reduce exposure to dust and fumes. Clear the area of any clutter, and lay down a drop cloth or newspaper to catch any spills or debris.

Gather all your materials and tools within easy reach, including sandpaper, protective gear, and chemical strippers. Make sure you have ample lighting to see all surfaces of the nightstand clearly. This preparation will create a productive environment and help ensure a smooth, efficient refinishing process.

Step 2: Remove the Hardware and Clean the Nightstand

Begin by carefully removing all hardware from the nightstand, such as handles, knobs, or hinges. Use a screwdriver to unscrew each piece, and place them in a labeled bag to keep them safe for reassembly. Once all hardware has been removed, clean the entire surface of the nightstand to eliminate any dust, grime, or residue.

Use a mild detergent mixed with water and a soft cloth or sponge to wipe down the surfaces. Ensure the nightstand is thoroughly dry before moving on to the next step, as any residual moisture can affect the sanding and refinishing process. A clean, hardware-free nightstand is essential for achieving a smooth, professional finish.

Step 3: Strip the Old Finish

Depending on the age and condition of your nightstand, you may need to strip off the old finish before sanding. Apply a chemical stripper according to the manufacturer’s instructions, using a brush or cloth to cover all surfaces evenly. Leave it on for the recommended amount of time, then use a scraper or steel wool to remove the old finish gently.

Be sure to work in small sections and wipe away any excess stripper as you go. Once finished, clean the nightstand again with mineral spirits or denatured alcohol to remove any remaining residue. This step will help reveal any imperfections that may need further attention before moving on to sanding.

Step 4: Sand the Nightstand

Sanding is a crucial step in refinishing and will help to smooth out any imperfections, remove old finishes or scratches, and prepare the wood for staining or painting. Start with coarse-grit sandpaper (around 80-100 grit) and gradually work your way up to a finer grit (around 220 grit) for a smoother finish.

Sand in the direction of the grain, using long, even strokes. Be sure not to press too hard on the surface as this can damage the wood. Use a sanding block or folded sandpaper for harder-to-reach areas. Once completed, wipe down the nightstand with a tack cloth to remove any dust particles.

Step 5: Stain or Paint

Now comes the fun part – adding color and personality to your nightstand! If you choose to stain, apply the stain evenly with a brush or cloth, following the direction of the wood grain. Apply multiple coats until you reach your desired shade, allowing each coat to dry completely before adding the next.

If you opt for paint, use a high-quality brush or foam roller for an even application. It may also be helpful to use painter’s tape on any areas you don’t want painted. Apply two thin coats, sanding lightly between each layer for a smooth finish. Remove any tape before the paint dries completely to avoid peeling.

Step 6: Add Varnish

Once your stain or paint has dried, it’s time to protect your nightstand with a coat of varnish. This step is essential for preserving the wood and giving your piece a professional finish. Using a clean brush, apply the varnish evenly in long strokes, following the direction of the grain. Allow it to dry completely between coats.

If you want a glossy finish, lightly sand between each coat to remove any imperfections and create a smooth surface. Apply several layers until you are satisfied with the level of shine. For a matte or satin finish, skip the sanding between coats and add one final layer for protection and durability.

Step 7: Reattach Hardware

Once the varnish has dried completely, reattach all hardware to your nightstand using the labels from earlier to ensure proper placement. Use a screwdriver to secure each piece back in its original position.

You may also choose to update the hardware entirely, giving your nightstand a fresh new look that complements the refinished wood. Just be sure to measure and select hardware that fits the existing holes or drill new ones if necessary.

Step 8: Enjoy Your Refinished Nightstand

Congratulations on completing your refinishing project! Step back and admire the transformation of your nightstand, noting the vibrant color and smooth finish you’ve achieved through careful attention to detail.

Take pride in your hard work and the unique character your personal touch has brought to this piece. Place your revamped nightstand in its perfect spot and add any decorative elements, like a lamp or a small plant, to enhance its beauty. Enjoy the renewed life of your nightstand, knowing it’s not just furniture but a reflection of your creativity and effort.

Following these steps on how to refinish a nightstand, you can transform any old or worn-out nightstand into a stunning statement piece that adds personality and charm to your bedroom. Remember to work carefully and patiently, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors and finishes. With the right tools, materials, and techniques, you can achieve a professional-looking result that will impress everyone who sees it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I Refinish a Nightstand With Veneer or Laminate?

A: Yes, you can still successfully refinish a nightstand that has a veneer or laminate finish. However, the process may be slightly different, and you’ll need to use a primer before painting or staining. It’s also essential to be careful when sanding as these materials are not as durable as solid wood.

Q: How Long Does it Take to Refinish a Nightstand?

A: The time it takes to refinish a nightstand can vary depending on the size of the piece, its condition, and your level of experience. Generally, it can take anywhere from one to two days, including drying time between coats and any necessary repairs or touch-ups.

Q: Can I Use Chalk Paint for My Nightstand Refinishing Project?

A: Yes, chalk paint is an excellent option for refinishing a nightstand. It’s easy to use, requires minimal prep work, and gives a matte, vintage look that is very popular. Just be sure to seal it with wax or varnish for added protection and durability.

Q: Do I Need Special Tools to Refinish a Nightstand?

A: While there are specific tools you may prefer for the job, like an electric sander or paint sprayer, you can successfully refinish a nightstand with basic hand tools such as sandpaper, brushes, and screwdrivers. It ultimately depends on your level of comfort and desired outcome.

Conclusion

Refinishing a nightstand is a rewarding project that allows you to breathe new life into a piece of furniture, transforming it into a personalized creation that enhances your living space. By following the detailed steps outlined in this guide on how to refinish a nightstand, you can ensure a smooth process from preparation to the final reveal. The satisfaction of seeing your nightstand evolve through each stage—stripping, sanding, painting or staining, varnishing, and reassembling—underscores the value of DIY craftsmanship.

Not only do you save money by refinishing instead of purchasing new furniture, but you also contribute to a sustainable lifestyle by repurposing existing items. Whether you aim for a vibrant, modern aesthetic or prefer a rustic, classic look, your refinishing project is an opportunity to express your unique style. Enjoy the creative journey and the pride of a beautifully revitalized nightstand that fits perfectly in your home.