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How can I sand and modify this change table?

I have an old baby change table that I want to use as a practice run to get into wood working as a hobby. I was thinking of sanding it back, maybe cutting in some grooves for style (I don't expect it to look good), and painting white-ish.

As a newbie, what's the best way to sand this and cut the grooves?

I was considering a ryobi 18+ sander to add to the collection. Guessing I'd need perhaps a work table or vice etc too. Just generally not sure of the tools needed to be safe and efficient, and the order of steps.

It's ok if I ruin the table in the process.

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Jewelleryrescue

Hi @chickensoup64

Interesting project it is great to try the new things well done ,

As you build on the old skills new ones will come faster to you,

The Ryobi 18v 1 Palm sander will serve you well here as it will get into the smaller corners. use the worn papers to hand sand the rounded bits

Putting groves into timber uses a plunge router a heavy awkward bit of kit on a finer timber frame. Thats needs alot of skill but i have a better idea for you that will advance your project skills to make some incredible furnature renovations.

And that's timber stencilling after you base paint it,

Click the link see if you like it.

A table vice first find a good strong heavy table second hand to mount it on 🙂 your next project.?

chickensoup64

@Jewelleryrescue thanks for the info!

Any particular reason for that palm sander over an orbital sander? I'm not sure here so any help to get the right tools for long term would be good to cost save overall.

Would I need a vice for this project? I think I can pull the table apart to sand piece individually as it's not a comples build, mostly allen key screws. I think I might have a suitable bench space for a table vice if needed.

I like the idea of stencilling! I'll take a look into that. Please share if you have any resources for stencil designs I can use as inspiration

MitchellMc

Hi @chickensoup64,

Palm sanders are better for smaller detail work, such as sanding corners or intricate areas, which will be useful for your change table project. On the other hand, an orbital sander is more suitable for larger, flat surfaces like the tabletop, as it can cover more area quickly. You’ll likely find the Ryobi 18+ palm sander a good addition to your tool collection, especially for getting into tight spots.

For this project, a bench vice probably won’t be necessary. However, a couple of sets of quick clamps would be handy for holding the parts down to your workbench while you sand them, making the process easier and safer. In terms of tools, focus on getting a sander, clamps, and perhaps a jigsaw or router if you're planning to cut grooves or other details into the wood. If you plan to paint, make sure you have the right paints and brushes for a smooth finish.

You’re on the right track thinking of taking the table apart—it will make sanding easier and give you access to the individual components. Just be sure to work safely and wear appropriate protective gear, like goggles and a dust mask.

Please let us know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

chickensoup64

Hey @Jewelleryrescue and @MitchellMc cheers for the info so far.

I've gone and got a random orbital sander and progressing through a bit each day. Couple of snags on the sanding I was hoping I might get some advice.

Each piece has a rounded top (and slight rounded corners on the bottom) which seems to be a challenge to sand. Is there any way I can sanded the rounded tops easily with the tool or is this a hand tool task?

Additionally, turns out while disassembling, the front and rear of the table are glued together and don't come apart by removing screws. What are my options here to separate the pieces without potentially destroying any timber?

Right now I'm just planning on sanding it as is with a bit of manual labour in detail spots.

Lastly, I only just noticed there is an engraved logo on the front bottom. Can I sand this down or is there a better way to cover or fill in? (Mask for scale)

JacobZ

Hi @chickensoup64,

Hand sanding the rounded edges is definitely the way to go. As the sandpaper on all powered sanders sits on a flat backing, they are not great for following the contours of rounded surfaces.

The glued sections have more than likely used dowels with glue applied to them. Try putting a chisel in the gap and levering it open. If anything is going to break, it should be the dowels, which can be fairly easily replaced. If you can get it wide enough, you can use a IRWIN 185mm Dovetail Pull Saw in the gap to cut the dowels.

Once the dowels are cut, you'll have to drill them out and replace them with new ones. There are plenty of options for fluted dowels that will work.

Sanding down the logo is the best way to remove it. You could try using a timber filler to fill the recess before staining, but it would likely still show through.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob

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