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Good Question: How Do I Finish This Table?

2-11-2009table2.jpg

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This question is from CJ:

I have a beautiful walnut dining table by Florence Knoll and a new baby. As a result of the combination of these two, I am struggling to figure out how to apply a finish to the table to protect it from spills and scratches caused by the new addition to our family, while preserving its beautiful wood grain appearance (the table's, not the baby's). Any thoughts on environmentally-safe products or types of finish that would be best for this application?

 
 

We've posted a bit about environmentally-friendly wood finished in the past. Here are some links -- this should be a good place to start your research!

Does anyone else have any recommendations?

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Good Question, painting, fixing & repair, tables - dining & occasional

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Comments (3)

Yes, my recommendation is, use a placemat or table cover for your child. To protect your flooring, use a tarp or whatever on the floor. Messes are a part of daily life with babies and young children.

posted by stickyricemama on February 11th 2009 at 5:28pm
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I second the placemat but the tarp idea is kind of icky--all of that plastic off-gassing? No thanks. Buy a splat mat that is oeko-tex certified and PVC free.

I have placemats and two splat mats from Mimi the Sardine

http://www.mimithesardine.com/

The splat mat is great coverage on the table during art projects as well as on the floor during dinner. I loved our first one so much, I bought a second one.

If you want a less expensive alternative, you could try an EVA shower curtain liner. They sell them at Target.

posted by Loki Parker on February 12th 2009 at 10:07am
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an oilcloth tablecloth would work well for your table. There are some beautiful ones out there

posted by Hollie on February 12th 2009 at 2:46pm
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