Behind the Sandpaper: Why We Save the Tops (and Not Just for Looks)
, by The Crooked Notch, 2 min reading time
If you’ve ever walked through our shop and noticed a dresser with a smooth, beautifully stained top, you might have wondered… why not just paint the whole thing and call it a day? Wouldn’t that be faster? Easier? Sure — but faster and easier isn’t the Crooked Notch way.
We believe the top of a piece is its handshake — it’s the first point of connection you make. And we’re big on first impressions.
The Wood Grain Obsession
Here’s the truth: we have a love affair with wood grain. Oak, maple, walnut — we don’t care, we love them all. When we sand down the top of a dresser or table and see the natural beauty peek through, it’s like watching a sunrise. Each pattern is different, each tells a story. And we’d be lying if we said we didn’t sometimes stop mid-project just to stare at it.
The Durability Factor
Beyond the beauty, there’s a practical side. Painted tops are more likely to show wear and tear, especially on heavily used surfaces. A stained, sealed wood top? That’s built for coffee mugs, homework sessions, dinner parties, and even the occasional “oops” moment with a glass of wine.
Mixing Stains Like a Recipe
One of our favorite things to do is mix different stains in a room. Picture this: a grey-weathered wood floor with brown undertones, paired with a dresser that has a deep java top. Suddenly, the room has dimension and warmth — like it’s been thoughtfully curated over time instead of bought in one sterile shopping trip.
Breaking the “Matchy-Matchy” Rule
Too much of the same can make a room feel flat. We like a little contrast, a little surprise. And here’s the kicker — what really matters isn’t what we think looks good. It’s what you love.
Final Sanding Wisdom
Saving the tops takes more time, more elbow grease, and sometimes more than one do-over. But when you run your hand across that finished wood and see it shine, you’ll know why we do it.