Why don't you just try using it for a while and see if you can live with a less than perfect surface. You will have to destroy that perfect sheen to paint it, so you won't be going backwards if you use it first.

Do you know the name of finish coat? Exactly what you do to paint will depend on the nature of the finish that is there.

I am not sure of the name of the finish. It's just one of those that you can see your reflection in, almost like a mirror. We've always used the table with a tablecloth. I just wanted a different look and thought I'd paint this table as opposed to making a new purchase:)

Why not sell that beautiful cherry table to someone who appreciates it, then go to big lots and get a painted table, because once you paint that cherry table it will look like a big lots special anyway.

LazyPup, your comment was semi-mean. I posted in hopes of receiving information and not a derogatory comment. I have painted chairs in the past and they have turned out beautifully, and in no way do they look like a "Big Lots special." They actually resemble the chairs one would find on the nordicstyle.com website. I felt because of the finish that perhaps something other than a fine sanding was required.

Sharon sd, I took your advice today. I relocated the table to the kitchen and placed a new tablecloth on it, and I really like it there. Thanks a lot:)

While I don't agree w/ LazyPup's tone, I share his/her sentiment - generally amongst those who appreciate fine furniture, it's considered A Bad Thing to paint cherry, unless it's, say, a low grade of lumber.

Lotta folks even think it verges on criminal to *stain* cherry, as it is so beautiful with a simple oil finish that allows the wood to develop its natural patina over time.

That said, I agree totally with you that furniture is designed to be *USED*, and there's nothing worse than buying a piece, then being afraid to use it for whatever reason. Kinda like those high-gloss wood floors some folks have that you're not allowed to walk on, or the couch your Gramma has that you can't get near, even at age 32. : )

I realize you have a solution in hand, but if you should ever decide to do something, I would actually look into perhaps refinishing the table with a lower-gloss finish, like a satin. But please, don't paint it. The painted Scandinavian furniture you like is more than likely constructed of birch solids & plywood and designed to be painted.

Anyway, just my $0.02.

Jason

Thank you Jason, you are very kind! I've given up the "bad" idea of painting the table. My husband's eyes started twitching anyway when I had an entire presentation to show him from nordicstyle of how beautiful I thought the table would turn out to be : )

Therefore, I will not be painting the table but will have a glass top made for it to protect and preserve the finish. I believe this will solve the concern I have of scratching it.

Thanks so much for the input.

Have you thoght about getting eather a plexi - glass top or tempered glass top for it? Our friends have this so they could "enjoy" their table.

Librarymom03, yes that is exactly what I am considering purchasing. I have researched online and I think I like the ogee edge and the double bevel edge cuts. I look forward to having the tempered glass top made in the near future.

I have the same sort of question.....however, my table was not solid wood. Over the years it received quite a few scratches and I cannot cover the scratches no matter what I do. I have toyed around with the idea of covering the top with copper which can be pricey.....so I did find a distressed copper finish paint. I only want to do the top.....any thoughts? Not sure if I would be getting myself into a bigger mess or not!

I've been trying for years to sell my black cherry dining room suit and no one wants it. The latest trends are for open area eating and lighter furniture. So I too, am considering painting.