Refinished Kitchen Table

Hi y'all!  I am so excited about our new table!  It was Christmas time when I realized we were outgrowing our old table.  #goodbyenewbornfog  I kept my eye out on facebook marketplace and Craigslist, and when this table popped up for $20, I jumped!

It's hard to see in this picture but the top was covered in scratches.  I also did not love the orange color, so deciding to refinishing the table was a no brainer!  I always follow 5 steps when refinishing and here is a super quick recap!
1.  Paint Stripper!  This step is so stinky and messy but it makes sanding SO much easier!   I use the quick 15 minute gel stripper.

2.  Sanding! AKA Worst Step Evvvver.  I'm trying to be more honest in my 30s so no sugar coating from me.  😝  I always start with a 60-80 grit sand paper to get most of the old stain off.  Then smooth out the table with 120 grit sandpaper followed by 220 grit sandpaper.  I usually use a palm sander but the wood on this one was so hard.  I had to break out our belt sander.  It worked so much better but also left some deep marks where I held it to long.  I think it just makes it look more authentic!

  3.  Pre-Stain!  Give yourself a pat on the back because the hardest part is over.  Using an old cloth, wipe the pre-stain all over the table.  This will help the stain absorb evenly all over your table.  Also, don't worry when your table looks yellowish... it will go away when you apply your stain!     4.  Stain!  Using a rag or brush apply stain.  Wipe off any extra stain after about 15 minutes.  I did 2 coats of dark walnut stain.  
5.  Polyurethane!  Time to seal your table!  Using a good quality brush apply polyurethane.  I use Super Fast Drying Polyurethane from Minwax.  Between each coat of polyurethane you want to lightly sand with 220 grit sandpaper.  I do a total of 3 coats of polyurethane.  

 DONE!  I switched out the original legs for some antique legs I had been saving for something special.  I'm over the moon happy with how they look! 

Now I have to convince Tall Tan Man that we need new chairs!  I'd love a long bench with some different chairs...  The problem is he thinks I can do everything for $50 and I just can not finagle that!

  The boys and I are flying to Texas today, wish me luck and send me allllllll the antiperspirant! 😅