Expert: Eileen Cronk - 3/5/2009

Question
We recently purchased a new solid cherry dining table (breadboard finish) with iron base.  It was a floor model in the store and has many minor scratches and dull spots in the finish.  Do I need to strip the whole top or just sand and add a varnish?  I have never done work like this before and don't want to ruin a new table.  Should I hire someone or is it fairly easy/simple to do on my own?

Answer
Hi Courtney
Nice to hear from you
Refinishing a table top is one of the trickiest things for the do it yourselfer to get right.
Its because its the largest thing in a room and mistakes stick out like a sore thumb.
I would really recommend a pro look at the top as it may only need some polishing out. And you cannot sand and apply varnish unless you know what you are applying it over.
I am a little confused when you say "solid cherry dining table (breadboard finish)"
Do you mean the top is designed "bread board style" or the cherry wood has a finish that is normally applied to actual breadboards.
I will guess its built bread board style.
But if this is an oil finish like a bread board it can be easily fixed.
Will you clarify if you can?
Regards
Eileen