Refinishing a Veneered Tabletop – Save the Surface

Article 92: Refinishing a Veneered Tabletop – Save the Surface

By: A Woodworker Who Believes Veneer Deserves Respect

Veneer isn’t a shortcut—it’s an art. And it can be refinished with care. Here’s how to do it without sanding through the face.

Materials

• Denatured alcohol

• Chemical stripper (optional)

• Fine steel wool (#0000)

• Shellac or waterborne polyurethane

• Paste wax (optional)

Tools Needed

• Cabinet scraper or razor blade

• Cotton rags

• Soft sanding block

• Mask and gloves

Steps

1. Test Finish Type

   • Rub with alcohol: if it softens, it’s shellac. Otherwise, use stripper.

2. Remove Old Finish Gently

   • Use scraper held at low angle. Avoid sanding if veneer is thin.

3. Light Sand (Optional)

   • Very lightly with 320 grit on a block, only if needed.

4. Apply Finish

   • Wipe-on shellac or spray poly. Build up 2–4 thin coats.

5. Final Buff

   • After full cure, apply paste wax and buff with a soft cloth.

Cross Section – Veneer vs Substrate

 | Finish |
 | Veneer | ← 1/32" to 1/16"
 | MDF or Plywood Core |