Wooden furniture and kitchen worktops bring natural warmth and character to any home. But over time, wear and tear, stains, and daily use can take a toll. The good news? You don’t need to replace them. With the right approach and materials, you can restore their original beauty – or even give them a fresh new look.

At J&D Sprayers & Makeovers, we specialise in reviving tired wooden surfaces, from antique tables to solid oak worktops. Here’s our professional guide to restoring wooden furniture and kitchen worktops.

Step 1: Assess the Damage

Before starting, inspect the surface for:

• Scratches and dents

• Water stains or heat marks

• Peeling varnish or discolouration

• Chips, cracks or deep gouges

Minor imperfections can usually be repaired and refinished. If the wood is heavily damaged or warped, replacement sections may be needed – especially around sinks or hobs.

Step 2: Clean and Prepare the Surface

Thorough cleaning is essential before sanding. Use a degreasing agent or a mix of warm water and mild detergent to remove built-up grease, wax, and dirt. Let the surface dry fully.

Step 3: Sand the Wood

Sanding removes old finishes and smooths the surface. We recommend:

• Starting with coarse-grit sandpaper (e.g. 80) to strip back varnish or stains

• Progressing to finer grits (120–180) for a smooth finish

• Using sanding blocks or electric sanders for large, flat areas

• Hand-sanding corners and decorative edges

Always sand with the grain to avoid scratches.

Step 4: Repair and Fill

Fill any cracks, holes or chips with high-quality wood filler. For worktops, we use waterproof filler to ensure long-lasting results. After it dries, sand the area again until flush.

Step 5: Choose Your Finish

You’ve got two main options for finishing:

1. Natural Oils (e.g. Danish Oil, Tung Oil)

• Soaks into the wood to enhance grain

• Provides a warm, natural look

• Easy to maintain and reapply

2. Spray Lacquer or PU Coating

• Durable and water-resistant

• Suitable for high-use areas like kitchens

• Available in matt, satin, or gloss

• We apply this in our controlled spray booth for a flawless finish

Step 6: Apply the Finish

For oils:

• Apply thin coats with a cloth or brush

• Let each layer penetrate before buffing or recoating

• Typically 2–3 coats are ideal

For sprayed coatings:

• We use a primer followed by 2 coats of PU topcoat

• Optional clear lacquer for extra durability

• Sand lightly between coats for a smooth, even result

Step 7: Let it Cure

Don’t rush this step. Even if it feels dry, most finishes take 24–72 hours to fully cure. Avoid placing heavy items or exposing the surface to water until it’s hardened completely.

Why Choose Professional Restoration?

DIY can work for light wear, but for flawless results, professional spraying ensures:

• Even coverage with no brush marks

• Long-lasting protection

• Precise colour matching or decorative finishes

• Dust-free environment thanks to our spray booth in Edinburgh

Ready to Breathe New Life into Your Wood Surfaces?

At J&D Sprayers & Makeovers, we restore wooden worktops, tables, chairs, and cabinetry across Scotland. Whether it’s part of a kitchen makeover or a one-off furniture project, we’ll help you fall in love with your wood again.

Get in touch for a free quote or visit our Edinburgh showroom to see samples of finishes, colours and techniques in person.