Replies

1. 
   GretchenTHE FIRST | Feb 01, 2011 05:51pm | #1

   If you don't need any changes just sand it well and apply a wipe on varnish. Otherwise be prepared to pay a great premium, which may be fine, but if you have enjoyed it as it is, you can really do the finishing yourself.

1. 
   SteveSchoene | Feb 01, 2011 10:36pm | #2

   If possible it would be better to thoroughly clean the base.  If it is not too dinged up you could go this, starting  with TSP (from about any hardware store) and then with mineral spirits.  Then if it looks pretty good you can wipe on a coat of wiping varnish.  The TSP wash will have raised grain, giving a rough fuzzy surface.  But if you apply the varnish coat over that, it will harden the fuzz.  Then you can sand off the roughness with 320 grit sand paper, sanding just enough to remove the roughness.

   Why all that proceedure instead of the sanding recommended by Gretchen?  Because the cherry in the base will have darkened quite a bit over the years.  If you clean it by sanding you will likely make it quite a bit lighter in color than the top. 

   Now it's quite possible that the base has been too dinged up, or the modification you have in mind is too great, and then it would have to be sanded more extensively.  If so then you may need to seek out a professional furniture finisher, who would be able to use dye, or possibly a sprayed toner, to adjust the color of the base to the top. But that's not a task for a novice finisher, while applying a natural color wiping varnish is well within the capabilities of most people, even without experience. 

   If that scares you we can talk you through the process.  It would really help if you could post a picture or two showing the colors and design of the table--both top and base. 

1. 
   GretchenTHE FIRST | Feb 02, 2011 09:53am | #3

   Of course, much better advice and procedure. And good for you to advise it. I just wanted to raise the possibility of it being something the family could do. And I hadn't considered the cherry darkening. I am interested in that technique of preserving the oxidation. At least I think that is what you are describing. Thanks.

2. 
   sapwood | Feb 03, 2011 12:14pm | #4

   As in so many aspects of home construction and maintenance, I find it best to first ask local friends for their recommendations. For instance, where I used to live for many years there is a furniture repair and refinishing shop that could easily do the work you desire. The owner is known by many and it wouldn't take very long to find a friend who has heard of him or actually used his services. Unfortunately my old city is a long way from DC. But you can find someone there by just asking.