One of my favourite projects to tackle is a dining table makeover. I am not sure why, but there is something so satisfying about refinishing a large, well-loved table and giving it new life. Over the years I have worked on many big projects, but this beautiful French provincial drop-leaf table quickly became one of my favourites. It originally came with only four chairs, but once the leaves were extended, it reached an impressive eight feet in length.
After sanding the tabletop back to bare wood, I quickly realised the surface had a strong red tone. While that might have been popular decades ago, red-toned wood can feel dated and heavy in a modern home. I wanted to refresh the piece without painting over the natural wood grain, so I needed a solution that would tone down the colour while keeping the character of the wood.
Why Use Stain and Finishing Oil Instead of Paint?
When you want to keep the beauty of real wood visible but dislike the existing colour, Fusion™ Mineral Paint Stain and Finishing Oil (SFO) is the perfect solution. It penetrates the wood to change the tone without covering up the natural texture and grain. The result is a rich, updated finish that still highlights the character of the wood beneath.
For this project, I chose Ebony SFO to neutralise the red tones and achieve a more modern, timeless finish.
Step-by-Step: How I Refinished This Dining Table
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Prep the surface by sanding back to bare wood. This ensures the SFO can absorb evenly and deeply into the surface.
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Mix the product thoroughly before application. Shake or stir well to combine the oil and pigment.
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Apply the first coat using a lint-free cloth or applicator pad. Wipe the SFO onto the wood in the direction of the grain.
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Let it penetrate for about 10 minutes, then buff away all excess thoroughly. This step is crucial — if you leave excess product on the surface, it will become tacky as it cures.
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Allow to dry overnight, then apply a second coat if desired, following the same process. Most projects need two coats for full, even coverage.
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Let the finish cure for 21 days for a durable, water-resistant surface.
The result is a beautifully refreshed tabletop that feels updated and elegant without losing its natural wood charm.
See this YouTube Video for the best prep for SFO
Supplies You Will Need
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Fusion™ Mineral Paint Stain and Finishing Oil in Ebony
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Lint-free cloths or applicator pads
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Sanding block or sander (for removing old finish)
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Stir stick or paint mixing tool
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Protective gloves
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Drop cloth or protective sheet
Why I Love This Technique
This approach works beautifully on many types of furniture, especially vintage pieces with dated wood tones. It is a simple, effective way to modernise a piece while preserving its original character. With just a few coats of SFO, you can completely transform a tired tabletop into a show-stopping centrepiece for your dining room.
Visit Us for Expert Furniture Painting Advice
Shop Fusion™ Mineral Paint, Gel Stain and Top Coat, and all accessories online or in person at Anita Trinket, Fleetwood, PA. We also offer workshops, expert advice, and beautifully painted furniture for inspiration. Nationwide shipping is available from Pottsville, PA, so you can enjoy Fusion products wherever you are.
Happy painting,
Wendy