Fix Damaged Veneer with Gel Stain
Learn how to fix damaged, sanded-through veneer using gel stain instead of paint. This step-by-step process covers stripping, sanding, staining, and sealing a piece of furniture with veneer damage.
Course: Furniture Makeovers
- paint & varnish striper (Ready Strip/Ready Strip)
- chip brushes
- dropcloth
- plastic scrapers
- brass rushes
- GreenEz Cleaner
- gel stain (walnut or desired color)
- clear top coat (water based in desired sheen)
- synthetic paint brush
Step 1: Strip the Old Finish. Apply a heavy coat of stripper to all surfaces and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. Use a plastic putty knife to scrape off the old finish, and a brass brush for carved details and corners.
Step 2: Prep the Bare Wood. Clean off the remaining stripper with a water and cleaner solution, using a soft cloth and stiff-bristled brushes. Keep everything wrung out to avoid saturating the wood.
Step 3: Sand the Surface. Sand the apron and legs with an orbital sander using 220-grit sandpaper. Hand sand the top to avoid causing further veneer damage. Remove dust with a shop vac and microfiber cloth.
Step 4: Apply the Gel Stain. Spot-treat the damaged area first, then apply gel stain to the legs and apron, followed by the top. Wipe back excess stain after each section. Let the first coat dry overnight, then sand lightly and apply a second coat to the top for full coverage.
Step 5: Seal and Protect the Finish. Apply three thin coats of a satin clear top coat, allowing proper drying time between each. Lightly buff between coats with wadded packing paper for a smooth result.
Protect floor surfaces - stripper is messy!
Allow proper drying time for all the products listed. Read the labels!