Restoring a piece of furniture can seem like a daunting task, but with a little time and patience many projects can be fairly easy. Here are some tips for making your old furniture look like new.

Before beginning, apply a small amount of furniture restoration cleaner in an inconspicuous spot to determine if it is compatible with the furniture’s finish. Thoroughly inspect the piece to determine where the worst build up is and clear away any obstructions such as splinters or stray nails. Remove all hardware (handles, etc.) to make the restoration easier.

Experts recommend working in 10- or 12-inch sections first, and then going over the entire area (top of table, side of piece, etc.). This will ensure a more thorough cleaning. Use a small paintbrush or toothbrush to clean hard-to-reach places or any place that may have extra buildup. Clean the entire piece a second time to make sure it is free of all silicone, wax, polish and dust.

If you don’t feel comfortable handling pieces that need to be repaired or replaced, such as a broken leg, a local furniture shop can help. If you are doing the repairs yourself, make sure to use the appropriate adhesive. You’ll want to duplicate the original glue as closely as possible; this is especially important for older pieces.

Before waxing or polishing the finished product, use a damp cloth to remove any final dust and fingerprints, then buff with a clean dry cloth and use wax or polish sparingly. Before you know it, your old furniture will seem like brand new.

Sources: Refinishfurniture.com, Howstuffworks.com