Ever get halfway into a project and realize it is more work than fun? Stripping the paint from this table was definitely like that. I knew it would be a challenge to get the paint off but I had no idea it would have so many layers of varnish. In fact the table probably has more layers of varnish than all the woodwork in Westminster Abbey. That may be a slight exaggeration but the table was much lighter after I finished stripping off the some of the layers.
Little table time for your makeover
It has been a long time since I have tackled refinishing and I knew it would be messy. I decided to set up on the patio in a shady spot. Two hours later I ran out of shade (geesh) and had to move to another spot.
Halfway through todays project
The paint was the most challenging to remove from the spiral legs which was to be expected. However every time I applied the stripping gel to remove a little bit of stubborn paint another layer a varnish would bubble up. At one point I contemplated trading in my water bottle for a cold beer but I wasn’t going to let this project get the best of me.
Detail revealed with stripping gel
Part of the reason I wanted to strip the paint off was to reveal the carved detail around the top. I knew it was under all the paint but what I didn’t realize was how pretty it would look. Very satisfied with my efforts!
Next weekend I will work on the table a little more and decide what color to paint it. Be sure to check back for phase two of this project.
Ideas are already buzzing around my head! Have a great week!