I snagged this antique table at my friend’s garage sale a few years ago (pictured on her patio). A vinyl tablecloth covers imperfections like gaps in the table boards, water damage, etc. The table also had chipping white paint and needed a bit of work after sitting in the weather for a few years. The vinyl tablecloth also kept the tabletop safe from future damage. While using tablecloths for outdoor dining looks lovely, they don’t work well for everyday use — especially here in Minnesota where they act like sails.
The table has good bones, is sturdy, and still has some life left, so I ordered some Retique to try on the table. Retique is a liquid wood product that adds natural wood textures to almost any surface. I tested it out on my painted stairs a few weeks ago and we’re super pleased with how they came out.
First, I sanded the table and filled the gaps using shims and wood paint sticks. Next, I filled in the remaining gaps using the Retique wood filler. Their products are water soluble and so easy to use. It’s a quick and easy process. I put two coats of Retique wood primer on the table, added the stain. I also used the graining tool in the kit to give the table a wood grain. I did have the option to stain the table without a wood grain. Lastly, I added the exterior weather-resistant top coat.
The table has a hole in the center for an umbrella, but I’m not sure I’ll add it as we usually sit on the front patio in the evening and it’s shady by then, but then, coffee in the morning is pretty lovely out there too!
Trying this product on our stairs and table was totally worth it. I still have two more sets of stairs to finish, and our picnic table by the pool too.
