How to upcycle a Jarrah coffee table?

Question

I'd like to upcycle a jarrah coffee table that I bought secondhand about ten years ago. I'd like to lighten the timber stain or sand it back and paint it an off white.

KellieN · Answer

I used Feast Watson Liming White to lighten the tops of these bedside tables after a lot of sanding,  but it looks like bleach would make them even lighter. I have  watered down white water based paint and used a rag to apply it over a sanded surface on another project.

EricL · Answer

Hello @Redcliffe

Here is a sample image rendered in AI to give you a bit of an inspiration. The rendered image below gives you a good idea of the overall look and feel I’m suggesting. The design combines a low-sheen white finish on the body of the table with a lighter-toned gloss varnish on the top frame, possibly with a subtle tint to enhance the timber grain.

The LED lighting is battery-operated and fitted inside the display compartment, creating a warm and inviting glow that highlights the wine collection beneath the glass top. In the evening, it doubles as excellent mood lighting, adding both character and ambience to the room.

The combination of the painted finish, natural timber accents, and softly illuminated display creates a unique furniture piece that is both practical and visually striking.

Eric

MitchellMc · Answer

Hi @Redcliffe,

I hope you found Jacob's advice above helpful. I thought I'd also tag in some of our helpful members, @KellieN, @RJsPlace, @WoodenGregsWood, @Belindaplumley, @StarterDIY2025 and @uqlybish, who have all contributed some wonderful upcycling projects in the past.

Mitchell