The Most Unique Way to Make Over Oak Stacking Tables

This is my first attempt at wood burning and I decided to use these oak stacking tables that have been sitting in my inventory. These solid oak nesting tables are so cute, solid wood and plain honey brown, they have great wood grain and nice details on the legs.  Without a doubt, they have a rustic charm to them so I decided to toast them up. We have a cabin up in the Catskills and I can’t help but imagine them in someone’s log cabin or country home, maybe fireside in a cozy chair curled up with a book and a hot drink next to you on these tables.  A girl can dream.

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Wood Burning Toasted Oak Stacking Tables

*Make sure to use safety precautions when wood burning furniture.

The Before – Vintage Stacking Table

These stacking tables have a stubborn clear finish that is determined not to come off. But I am determined to remove it.

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The Process – Sanding

The tops still had the original clear finish on them that needed to be sanded off.  I took out my trusty sander and got to work on these oak nesting tables.  But much to my dismay no matter how much I sanded the finish would barely come off.  I was even using 80 grit, so I certainly wasn’t going easy on them.

After a failed attempt at sanding off the clear finish, I decided to take a chance. Since I would be torching the tops anyway, I figured I could burn off the clear finish.  Please keep in mind that I have never tried this before and I’m flying by the seat of my pants, please torch at your own risk if you decide to try this.  I grabbed my very powerful blowtorch and burned the tops of the wood nesting tables.  It definitely worked to get that stubborn finish off. 

The table tops ignited and were ablaze!  As expected they were completely charred. Pretty gross don’t you think? 

Next, I sanded the black char off and brought the tops to a smooth finish. 

Then I lightly torched the tops a second time for a toasted but not charred look. 

Once I was satisfied with the tops and realized that I should also wrap things up before I burn any more of the grass I lightly sanded, added a light chocolate stain and sealed them for protection.

The Result – Toasted Oak Stacking Table

Wood burning turned out to be the perfect option for these stubborn stacking tables.

I love the way the wood grain is brought to life.

The base and legs of the stackable tables have been hand painted in a custom-mixed soft taupe, somewhat like a light beige.  They were then distressed and antiqued for that rustic charm we mentioned earlier.  

They give me that warm fireside feeling, no pun intended. *wink*

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