Refinishing Cherry Furniture: A Guide to Restoring the Beauty of Your Cherished Pieces
Cherry furniture, renowned for its rich, warm hue and elegant grain patterns, holds a timeless appeal. However, over time, even the most well-cared-for pieces can show signs of wear and tear. Refinishing cherry furniture can breathe new life into cherished heirlooms or give a fresh start to secondhand treasures.
Why Refinishing Cherry Furniture Matters
As one of the most durable hardwoods, cherry is an excellent choice for furniture that is built to last. However, even the most resilient materials can succumb to the effects of age, sun exposure, and daily use. Refinishing cherry furniture:
- Preserves its value: Refinishing can restore the original beauty of cherry furniture, enhancing its value as an investment.
- Protects against damage: A fresh finish creates a protective barrier, shielding the wood from scratches, dents, and moisture.
- Revives the original character: Refinishing removes stains, discolorations, and scratches, revealing the underlying beauty of the cherry wood.
- Matches other furniture: If you have inherited or purchased additional cherry furniture, refinishing can ensure a consistent color and style throughout your home.
Benefits of Refinishing Cherry Furniture
Refinishing cherry furniture offers numerous benefits:
- Improved aesthetics: A refinished piece will have a fresh, updated appearance, enhancing the overall ambiance of any room.
- Increased durability: A new finish strengthens the wood, making it more resistant to scratches and wear.
- Enhanced woodgrain: Refinishing reveals the natural beauty of cherry’s grain, showcasing its intricate patterns and textures.
- Increased value: Well-refinished furniture can increase in value over time, making it a worthwhile investment.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While refinishing cherry furniture can be rewarding, there are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Rushing the process: Rushing can lead to uneven finishing, air bubbles, or peeling.
- Using the wrong tools: Using abrasive sandpaper or harsh chemicals can damage the wood.
- Overstripping: Stripping too aggressively can remove the natural patina of the wood.
- Ignoring the grain: Sanding against the grain can create marks and damage the finish.
- Applying too much finish: Applying too much finish can create a thick, uneven coating that can crack or peel.
Tips and Tricks for Refinishing Cherry Furniture
- Start with the right tools: Use sandpaper designed for wood finishing, and select a chemical stripper specifically formulated for cherry.
- Protect your surroundings: Cover floors, walls, and other surfaces with drop cloths and plastic sheeting.
- Test on an inconspicuous area: Test the stripper on an inconspicuous area to ensure it does not damage the wood.
- Remove all hardware: Remove all hardware from the furniture before stripping or sanding.
- Strip with care: Apply the chemical stripper evenly and allow it to set according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use a plastic scraper to remove the old finish.
- Sand in the direction of the grain: Sand the wood with a fine-grit sandpaper, following the direction of the grain to avoid creating marks.
- Clean before finishing: Remove all sanding dust and debris before applying the new finish.
- Apply several thin coats: Apply the new finish in several thin coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
- Use a high-quality finish: Invest in a high-quality finish specifically designed for cherry wood.
Selecting the Right Finish for Your Cherry Furniture
The type of finish you choose will significantly impact the final appearance and durability of your refinished furniture. Here’s a breakdown of different finishes:
| Finish Type | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Oil-based finishes | Create a rich, satin-like sheen; highly protective |
| Water-based finishes | Offer a smoother, less glossy finish; more environmentally friendly |
| Lacquer | A durable, high-gloss finish; provides excellent protection |
| Shellac | A natural finish that brings out the natural color of the wood; less durable than other finishes |
| Wax | A traditional finish that provides a low sheen and a soft, natural look; requires regular maintenance |
Creating a Custom Finish: The Art of Color Washing
Color washing is a technique that adds a hint of color to cherry furniture without obscuring its natural beauty. Here’s how to do it:
- Apply a base coat: Apply a coat of your desired base color, using a brush or roller.
- Create a glaze: Mix a small amount of another color with a glaze medium. The ratio of color to glaze will determine the intensity of the tint.
- Apply the glaze: Use a brush to apply the glaze over the base coat, wiping off any excess with a rag.
- Adjust the intensity: If desired, apply additional coats of glaze to deepen the color.
Table 1: Recommended Sandpaper Grits for Refinishing Cherry Furniture
| Sanding Stage | Grit |
|---|---|
| Initial sanding | 120-150 |
| Smoothing | 180-220 |
| Final sanding | 240-320 |
Table 2: Estimated Time and Cost for Refinishing Cherry Furniture
| Size of piece | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Small table | 2-4 hours | $50-$100 |
| Dining table with chairs | 12-16 hours | $200-$300 |
| Armoire | 24-32 hours | $400-$500 |
Table 3: Chemical Stripping Solutions for Cherry Furniture
| Stripper Type | Brand | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Gel stripper | Citristrip | $20-$30 |
| Liquid stripper | Klean-Strip | $15-$25 |
| Powder stripper | Jasco | $25-$35 |
Table 4: Types of Brushes for Applying Finish to Cherry Furniture
| Brush Type | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Natural bristle | Soft, absorbent; best for oil-based finishes |
| Nylon bristle | Stiff, durable; best for water-based finishes |
| Foam brush | Disposable, low-shedding; best for quick touch-ups |
| Lambswool brush | Luxurious, high-quality; best for applying multiple coats |
Troubleshooting Common Refinishing Issues
- Blotches or streaks: Caused by uneven application of the finish; sand the affected area and reapply the finish.
- Air bubbles: Caused by trapped air in the finish; use a brush to smooth out the finish before it dries.
- Peeling or cracking: Caused by applying too much finish or not allowing it to dry properly; strip the finish and reapply.
- Orange peel texture: Caused by using a thick finish or applying it in humid conditions; sand the affected area and reapply the finish in thin coats.
Conclusion
Refinishing cherry furniture is a rewarding task that can restore the beauty of your cherished pieces or give a fresh start to secondhand treasures. By following these tips and tricks, using the right tools and materials, and taking your time, you can achieve a professional-quality finish that will showcase the natural elegance of your cherry furniture for years to come.
