I'm looking to replace the top of my dining table while keeping the iron legs. I'm a novice when it comes to woodworking (my experience is mainly limited to painting cheap birdhouses), so I need some advice. Ideally, I'd like a durable wood choice for the top that also stains or seals well. I've been considering oak or maple, but I've heard they can be tricky when it comes to staining. I want something that will stand the test of time—preferably decades, not just a few years like my current table. By the way, I'm thinking about a 48-inch round tabletop. Thanks for any tips, woodworkers!
4 Answers
Honestly, I'd skip staining altogether. Go with a nice wood species that you like—white oak or walnut are excellent choices. If you're on a budget but love the look of white oak, ash can be a good alternative too. For finishes, I recommend using Rubio Monocoat Pure; it's super durable and easy to manage, which is great for beginners. Just my two cents after four years of woodworking experience!
Yes! I can't stand stain either. I usually work with walnut and cherry, applying a hardwax oil for a finish. It gives a beautiful look without the headache of stains.
If you like lighter wood, maple is a winner; for darker, walnut is your best bet. Both should hold up well, and I recommend sticking with clear finishes. For maple, a water-based polyurethane like General Finishes High Performance works well since it won't yellow over time. For walnut, try an oil-based finish like General Finishes Arm-r-seal. It enhances the wood's beauty. Just a warning—hardwax oils can be a pain for dining tables because they’re easier to mar and spot repairs can stand out!
You should really visit a local wood shop to check out your options in person rather than buying wood online. That way, you can see what’s available and get advice from knowledgeable staff. Around the SF Bay area, there are some good shops with decent hardwoods. It's worth the trip! Also, I’m not a fan of stained wood myself.
You can find pre-made round hardwood slabs—just sand and finish them, then attach your legs. For a durable table, I'd say maple (lighter color) or walnut (darker) are both great options. If you’re set on a stain, it might be easier to just use a dark tablecloth instead of staining the wood. Just a heads up: hardwood can be pricey—around $1,200 for walnut, $700 for oak for a decent slab, but it's totally worth it for a solid table.
Totally agree! I made a kitchen table from ash; the wood was great, but I regretted staining it. With kids around, repairs can be a hassle—you have to completely strip the top to fix it! No more staining for me after that experience.