I've seen several tables (wood) that have scratches and water/cup rings. I was wondering if it is possible to repair some of these? I imagine the answer is "it depends". I am guessing it would depend on the finish, the wood, how deep the scratch is, etc. I think most of the tables I am looking at have a veneer top - not solid wood (just guessing). They don't always seem to know. I am thinking that I can't sand and fix scratches on a veneer or laminate top and it would not be worth the purchase but figured I'd put the question out there to the experts. I've seem some really nice sets but the table is seriously scratched.
Any advice you can offer regarding scratches and water rings on wood tabletops would be great. KMS .. are you out there?
I am sure someone can give you tips on removing rings too.
CP
Kevin, Gordy, Peace - thanks so much for responding. I will look into your tips and see what works, depending on the table I wind up getting. I may try it on my existing table. I've got some stubborn rings.
JL - You're funny!
Teresa, refinishing the whole set can be quite a bit of work, especially if you haven't done much work like that before. But it sounds like you could try some fixes on your existing furniture, and see if it works and is enjoyable or if it's just an frustrating mess.
If you have the time and energy to keep shopping, I agree with Belle. I think you can probably ...»
The alcohol trick can work on some pieces that are finished with shellac as shellac is dissolved with alcohol...this needs to be done carefully so as to not strip off too much...afterwards a ...»
The "wax crayons" that Kevin mentioned are also a great "easy fix" . The trick with all of these is to start small and test as you go. In some more extreme cases new wood ( solid or veneer) can be installed.
A few years ago I had to veneer patch the edges of some dresser fronts as the veneer had been "chipped away" The matching wood was detail cut with a razor blade and grain fit to a nearly seamless repair.
Speaking of great deals...I got an 1860's empire styled drop front desk from a client in the $200 range. It was pretty sad looking but built from solid mahogany and walnut crotch veneer. I completely stripped the outside and refinished it ( it was shellac) the inside writing surface was also stripped and refinished. The small cubbies inside were left the natural original finish.
I will continue to look and hopefully find a beautiful set with little flaws, at a great deal! Keep your fingers crossed for me! I'm hoping to find something before Thanksgiving. I'll report back what I wind up purchasing and if I did any repairs.