Urban Girls dont just shop.  They do stuff around the house.  Grown up stuff like refinishing furniture.  And I'm here to help.  (Hey, this is full-service blog.)  Here are the answers to all of your furniture refinishing questions:

Q:  Will the simple task of re-staining my oak headboard require at least two trips to the hardware store?

A:  Yes.  One for the stain, and then another for the brushes and sandpaper.  Der.

Q:  Do I really need to wear two gloves?

A:  Yes.  Especially if you are ambidextrous.  Sure, being ambidextrous is cool, but it doubles your glove budget.

Q:  Will this job get huge once I realize how beautiful the oak wood looks after a coat of stain?

A:  Yes.  You will immediately go around the house looking for more oak wood.  I recommend stopping yourself at this point.

Q:  Do I really need to worry about splattering my upholstered chairs with stain, even if they are 5 feet away from this little oak table?

A:  Yes.  Don't ask how I know this.

Q:  Will my cat suddenly decide that it wants to hang out on my dresser after I restain it?

A:  Yes.  Most definitely.

Q:  Are the fumes really that strong?

A:  Yes.  Even though there is a lot of ventilation going on around here, I suddenly can't get enough Velvet Underground and Bob Dylan.

I am sure you are starting to see a pattern here...yes, yes, yes.  Dropcloth? Yes.  Mineral spirits? Yes.  A WHOLE day? Yes.  Extra foam brushes? Yes.  And how do you reward yourself for a job well done?  Get a breath of fresh air by walking along the water at Seaport Village.  See you at Urban Girl!!