Restore a Mid-Century Coffee Table

Article 156: Restore a Mid-Century Coffee Table

By: A Woodworker Who Sees the Beauty in Beaten Pieces

Mid-century modern coffee tables, especially teak or walnut, can be restored to their former glory with some careful sanding and finishing.

Common Issues to Repair

• Scratched veneer

• Loose joints

• Water rings

• Faded or worn finish

Restoration Steps

1. Clean Thoroughly

   • Use mild soapy water or mineral spirits.

2. Repair Veneer

   • For chips, use wood filler or patch with matching veneer and glue.

3. Sand Lightly

   • 220 grit max. Avoid sanding through veneer.

4. Finish

   • Danish oil or a light wipe-on poly works best for satin sheen.

   • Avoid thick finishes; mid-century pieces benefit from subtlety.

5. Glue and Clamp Loose Joints

   • Inject wood glue into wobbly joints and clamp overnight.

Sketch – Veneer Patch

[Edge View]

|==== Veneer ====|
|  Base Substrate|

Patch small chipped area with matching wood grain and sand flush.