Refinishing furniture is a wonderful way to salvage a favorite older piece.It is also a money saving tool when redecorating a room on a budget. Bring new life to a wooden dresser, chest or table is not as daunting as it would seem. Bob Villa recently shared these tried and true tips for flawless finishing. Okay, all you DIY'ers let's do this!

Begin by assessing the size of the piece you wish to refurbish. Remove old hardware like knobs, pulls and hinges. Next remove the drawers, and if possible, the legs. Breaking the project into smaller sub-sections will give you more flexibility and control.

The second step is removing the older finish. Yes, this takes a little elbow grease but with some effort old stain and paint will disappear. Paint or stain can both be removed by using chemical strippers, hand held sand paper or a power sander. Regardless of which method you select this step will more than likely be the longest. In order for your new paint or stain to adhere make sure that all of the previous product has been removed completely.

Once your piece is down to the wood wipe away all dust and residue so that your surface is clean and ready to absorb the new paint or stain. There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to paint or stain. The finish you select should be the one that reflects your sense of style. Stain is best used when you wish to retain the look of natural wood. Stain can also be used to change the appearance of wood. Carefully test the stain on a small piece to determine if your shade is too light or too dark. If it is too dark use a cloth to wipe off excess while wet. If the stain is too light wait for the first coat to dry and then add another coat or coats until you get the shade most pleasing to you.

Paint is a great way to bring color into a room especially if the piece is large. Again, be sure and test in a small, inconspicuous place before painting the entire piece. You may wish to add a layer of primer first. This step depends upon what type of paint finish you select. Like stain, paint can be made darker by adding a second coat after two hours of drying time.

Now that your surface has been revitalized add the finishing touch by adding hardware. Knobs and pulls are important statement pieces that should not be overlooked. Knobs can be generic, novelty or custom depending upon your taste and budget. For children consider adding knobs with initials, animals or beloved cartoon figures. For sports fans consider football, golf or baseball equipment pieces or favored team logos. For the sophisticated or chabby chic lady consider delicate knobs manufacture of crystal, colored glass or porcelain.

Really want to be unique? Visit us at www.knobs.co and speak to one of our designers. Let us help you create a knob as unique as you are!