How do I get rid of a burnt mark on my dark oak coffee table?
Question:I accidently burnt my coffee table with a cigarette. Anyone know how to, if not get rid of it completely but at least to be not so visible?
Answers:
You don't say how deep the burn mark is but I am presuming it has gone below the surface. Also, is it solid oak or oak veneer?
If it is solid oak, then the best course is to skim the whole surface with a 'fine' sander (hand held or small portable one). Then clean off the dust with a brush and damp cloth so it's absolutely clean. If the burn is deep you'll have to keep going till you get a 'clean' level.
If, however, it is a veneer surface. Then I would go about it this way; apply with care a paint stripper and then scrape the surface clean with a proper tool (Hardware shop might have one). Check, what does the burn look like now? If still poor use the sanding method as well and if not too bad wipe the surface clean with damp cloth and allow to dry. Then apply with a soft piece of cloth in a pad like form 'Dark Oak' wood dye from DIY or hardware store. Apply evenly all over. Remember this; each time you go over the surface with extra dye so will the surface get darker and darker. When it seems to you OK you have the choice of using a wax polish which over a period of time with further polishing will look good or a quickie brush and satin varnish job.
In the case of solid oak finish with the dye and wax polish - you won't need stirpper.
If you are unsure whether the table is solid or veneer oak, look underneath. Again remember, oak has an open grain.
You will have to revarnish it, but it wont cover it completely sorry
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