Hi friends! It’s Henry and Hannah here, your go-to DIY dream team, aka The Handy Duo! Today, we’re sharing one of our absolute favorite weekend projects—a custom coffee table. There’s something so satisfying about creating a piece of furniture that becomes the heart of your living room. Plus, it’s a chance to add a personal touch to your space while flexing those DIY muscles.

Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or just testing the waters, we’ve got you covered with step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and a touch of Handy Duo flair to inspire your build.

Here’s a checklist to get you started. Every project varies, but these are the usual suspects for furniture restoration:

Materials:

• Wood glue
• Sandpaper (80, 120, and 220 grit)
• Wood filler
• Stains, paint, or finishing oils
• Polyurethane or wax for finishing
• Screws or nails (as needed for repairs)
• Replacement hardware (knobs, hinges, etc.), optional

Tools:

• Screwdriver or drill
• Hammer and mallet
• Clamps
• Orbital sander (or sanding block)
• Wood scraper
• Paintbrushes or foam applicators
• Measuring tape

Optional but handy:

• Heat gun (for removing old paint)
• Wood planer (to fix uneven surfaces)
• Pocket hole jig (for sturdy joints)

Handy Duo Tip:

Before you start, inspect the piece carefully. Identify the key problem areas, like loose joints, missing hardware, chipped wood, or worn-out finishes. Each issue will guide your approach.

Wobbly legs or creaky joints? It’s time to stabilize your furniture. Begin by tightening any loose screws, nails, or bolts. If the joints are glued but starting to separate, gently pull them apart and remove any old, dried glue using sandpaper or a wood scraper. Then, apply fresh wood glue and clamp the pieces tightly together. Allow the glue to dry for 24 hours before moving on.

Handy Duo Anecdote:

We once fixed an antique chair that had so much wobble it felt like a carnival ride. After a little TLC (and some good clamps), it now sits proudly in our dining room.

Now that your furniture is sturdy, it’s time to prep the surface. Start by sanding down old finishes, stains, or paint. For heavily coated pieces, use 80-grit sandpaper to strip the surface. Then, work your way up to 120-grit and finish with 220-grit for a smooth, polished look.

If your piece has lots of nooks and crannies (like an ornately carved table), you might need a wood scraper or even sand by hand. It’s not the most glamorous step, but it’s essential for a flawless finish.

Handy Duo Tip:

Wear a dust mask while sanding, especially if working with old furniture, as older paints may contain harmful materials.

If your furniture has cracks, gouges, or visible nail holes, this is your moment to shine. Fill the damaged areas with wood filler, making sure to choose one that matches your wood type. Overfill slightly, as the filler will shrink when it dries. Once it’s hardened, sand it down until smooth and flush with the wood.

Here’s where the magic happens. Decide whether you want to stain your furniture for a natural look or paint it to add a pop of color. For stains, use a clean rag or foam applicator to apply in long, even strokes. Wipe off excess to allow the wood grain to show through. If using paint, start with a primer to ensure even coverage, then follow up with two coats of paint.

Handy Duo Tip:

Always stain or paint in a well-ventilated area and test your finish on a scrap piece of wood before applying it to your project.

Applying a protective finish is the final (and most crucial) step. Whether you use polyurethane for durability or furniture wax for a more natural look, this layer will protect your masterpiece from wear and tear. Apply in thin, even coats, and allow it to cure fully before using the piece.

If your furniture has knobs, handles, or hinges, decide if you want to keep or replace them. For an authentic look, you can polish the original hardware with metal cleaner. For a modern spin, switch them out with new hardware that complements your style.

Handy Duo Tip:

Mixing old-world charm with fresh touches, like combining antique wood with sleek, contemporary hardware, can give your piece a unique character.

Step back and admire your beautifully restored furniture. Not only does it look amazing, but it also carries the pride of your hard work. Place it in your home and style it with decor that complements its vibe.