What to do if you’re Live Edge Table has lost its Shine?

Live edge tables are a great addition to any home, as they display the wood’s beauty in its rawest form. Whether you have a live edge dining table, or a custom kitchen table, its beauty is preserved when properly maintained. Let’s see how to do that in the right way.

Steps to Follow If You Want to Make Your Live Edge Table Shiny Like It Once Was

Evaluate the State of Your Table

First of all, when you have decided that you are ready to start restoring your live edge table, you should examine it carefully. Assess the amount of wear and tear. Is the finish just plain boring, or are there marks and dents? This is because the condition of your table will determine which restoration method you have to use.

Clean the Surface Thoroughly

The first way of enhancing the appearance of your custom live edge tables is to clean them properly. In general, dust, dirt, and residues may settle on the surface and make it look less shiny.

• First, clean the table’s surface using a soft cloth to dust off any dirt particles.
• Then, in a basin, dilute a few drops of mild dish soap in warm water. Take a piece of cloth and soak it in the solution, rinse it out, and use it to clean the table.
• After washing the table with a sponge and soap, rinse it with clean water and dry it with a clean towel.

Sanding for a Smooth Finish

If your live edge dining table has scratches or the finish is not smooth, you might have to carry out some sanding. Sanding involves the use of sandpaper to smoothen the surface and make it ready for the new coat of paint.

Begin sanding with a smooth grade of sandpaper (220) to prevent scratching the wood surface. If the surface is very rough, start using a medium grit sandpaper (120) and then switch to a finer grit. Make sure to first sand in the direction of the wood grain and use equal force while doing so. Do not apply excessive pressure as this will wear out the grain of the wood and give it a rough texture.

In case of sanding, clean the live edge dining table using a vacuum or you can use a soft brush to clean the table to remove the sanding dust.

Apply a New Finish

When you want to apply a new coat to bring back the shine and protect your custom made dining table. The options available when it comes to finishes are oil, wax, or polyurethane. Each is useful in a different way so choose the one that looks best on your table and your preferences.

Oil Finish: These are tung oil or Danish oils in particular which get into the pores of the wood and make the grain stand out. Massage the oil gently onto the wood surface using a soft polish while turning in circles. It takes about 15 minutes to allow the cleaner to settle in and then use a damp cloth to wipe off the excess. The amount of waxing is determined by the degree of shine that is required on the fabric’s surface, and the process is repeated until the right sheen is obtained.

Wax Finish: Wax finish gives a natural look and feel and is hence preferred especially in places that require a wax surface. Wipe a thin coat of paste wax on your wooden furniture using a soft cloth in small sections. This will help you give the surface that shiny look.

Polyurethane: Polyurethane is a clear coat that can provide extra protection and a lustrous sheen to the piece for longer than a standard lacquer. It is recommended to use a good quality brush always apply a fine layer and not overload the brush at one time. Let each layer dry before sanding them with fine-grit sandpaper and applying the next layer on the surface. In most cases, it is recommended that two to three layers of the paint are applied.

Regular Maintenance Tips

When maintaining your live edge tables, thorough cleaning and proper oil polish are must-follow chores. You must clean your table often by dusting it using a soft material for example a cloth. Do not expose the table to direct sunlight for long periods because it can change the color of the wood and weaken the finish; try to keep it in another room where there are no windows or cover the table with curtains. Furthermore, coasters and placemats are also useful for protecting the surface of the table from spills and heat that may cause water rings or scorches.

Conclusion

Restoring the shine to your custom live edge tables is a manageable task that can be done with a few simple steps. By assessing the condition, cleaning thoroughly, sanding if necessary, applying a new finish, and following regular maintenance tips, you can ensure your table remains a beautiful centerpiece in your home for years to come. Whether it’s a live-edge dining table or a live edge coffee table, these techniques will help you maintain its natural beauty and charm.