Expert: Eileen Cronk - 5/29/2007

Question
I don't know for sure if the table is cherry, I just have the original brochure stating the table is made from either "fine maple or cherry grains".  The finish is just what the furniture company called it - it is just a reddish stain.  I would love to not have to strip off the color and try to match it with the rest of the table.  What would be the best way to remove permanent marker, glue, glitter, water marks, etc from the top of the table?  Do we use polycrylic to seal it off?  Thank you so much for your help!

Theresa

Answer
Hi again Theresa
With all these things on the top of the table, I would get out the sandpaper and lightly sand the top then use a poly to finish it.
Just be sure you do not penetrate the stain or you will have a lighter color red in that area.
Start with a 120 paper to get the real bad areas. Then switch to 220 and finally perhaps a going over with fine steel wool. Then the poly.
I like Minwax fast drying poly in a low luster as it does not show finger marks as bad as high gloss. This is an oil based product.Good Luck
Eileen