There’s nothing quite like the thrill of finding a hidden gem while thrifting. Recently, I stumbled upon a coffee table for just $5 at Goodwill Akron and immediately saw its potential. I loved the shape and open storage space. Despite the visible wear and tear, I knew it could be something special.
Step 1: Attempting Restore-A-Finish
I wanted to keep this restoration simple. I have a lot of color in my home and like to balance it with natural wood tones, so I planned on maintaining its natural beauty by refinishing it and not painting. I asked around online for advice, and several people recommended using Restore-A-Finish, a popular product for reviving wood furniture without stripping off the finish. Although it helped a little, it didn’t achieve the results I was hoping for. The deeper stains and dings remained, and I realized I needed to step it up a notch.
Step 2: Sanding Down
I decided to sand down the entire table to remove the damaged finish completely by using a handheld sander. This process took some time and effort, but it was worth it. The raw wood revealed a beautiful grain that was just waiting to be showcased.
Step 3: Reapplying Restore-A-Finish
After sanding, I applied Restore-A-Finish in Walnut again, and this time it worked wonders. The wood absorbed the finish beautifully, bringing out its natural color and character. The table already looked so much better, but I felt it needed something extra.
Step 4: Adding a Splash of Color (Optional)
To give the table a unique touch, I decided to change the hardware. I searched for something vibrant and colorful to add a pop of personality. The new hardware complemented the table’s natural beauty, adding an element of fun to the piece.
Final Thoughts
I’m thrilled with how the coffee table turned out. What started as a $5 thrift store find is now a conversation starter in my living room. There are still some minor imperfections, but the results exceeded my expectations. As someone who doesn’t restore furniture often, this project taught me that even the most worn-out pieces can be transformed with patience and creativity. So next time you’re out thrifting, keep an open mind—you never know what treasures you might find.
~Dina (@dinasdays)
