The home I bought in 2022 was an estate sale, and came with So Much Stuff, much of which has been useful. I have tools and nails for almost every occasion and didn't need to buy, for instance, a new lawn mower. Some less than-beautiful-items were also left behind, many of which were tossed (the nasty white shag rug went away fast), some sold (several small tables and two southwestern chairs that were stashed in the attic), and some were restored. Below are before, during and after shots of three such repairs.
Potter's End Table
In the basement, I found a simple wood table, covered in dust and clay, and some knife marks, as it was likely used by a potter who at one point probably used the basement as a studio. I still have a 1950s era kiln in the basement, and may always, since it is enormous and heavy. Since the table (like most of the dated, but solid furniture left behind) was made of all wood, I decided to refinish it. Twas my first refinishing attempt in quite some time.
Before:
During (a LOT of sanding):
After:
It came out a bit more orange than I would have like, but otherwise, I was quite pleased. It spent a long, long time outside as polyurethane stinks for a long time, I can report.
Coffee Table:
The coffee table had not been relegated to the basement, so it was cleaner, but had peeling layer of clearish finish, and that was about it. I forgot to take a before photo, so in-process will have to suffice.
During:
With the stripper on it
After sanding:
First coat of orangy stain (neighbor's cat supervising), which was followed by a darker stain to tone it down:
After:
Porch Chairs:
The porch chairs had been left outside for a long long while, and one was split in the middle. But some glue and several coats of exterior paint, and they've got new life and use again.
Before:
During:
After:
