I wrapped up refinishing the desk for the playroom a couple of weeks ago. I ended up re-stripping and sanding it with hopes of removing the bit of lime wax on the top. Although I wasn't able to completely remove that finish, I was able to remove marker stains and the original varnish that sort of dated the wood. I used a water-based stripper to keep cleanup easy, reapplying two times. So there was a time trade-off.
After stripping the finish, I sanded it down and wiped it clean.
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After stripping the finish, I sanded it down and wiped it clean.
I love the look of clean, stripped wood. However, it will not hold up well in a playroom without some sort of protection. I went searching for a clear, matte finish, and ended up using a water-based satin polyurethane. So here is a before and after:
BEFORE
AFTER
Not bad for eleven bucks!
This desktop has been taking a beating since the day I returned it to the playroom--being used as a homework station, play-doh table, and a playing field for superheros. That makes me happy, because that's what it was intended for. I may eventually change to a painted enamel finish for better durability, but for now it works! Now I just need to find new hardware, sew the curtains, and a few more projects...
You know it never ends!