How To Strip Furniture Successfully: Works for Paint and Varnish

Stripping furniture doesn’t have to be frustrating or time-consuming. In this video, I’ll show you the best method for removing paint or varnish-quickly, effectively, and without damaging the wood. Whether you’re prepping for paint, re-staining, or tackling a vintage piece, this step-by-step guide has everything you need to get it right.
Should you be stripping or sanding?
The answer is both: stripping and sanding are crucial for achieving professional results.
When to Skip Stripping:
If you’re only prepping to paint and the current finish is in good condition, you can often skip stripping and sand the surface smooth.
When Stripping is Necessary:
If the old finish is chipping, cracking, or failing in any way, stripping it completely is essential. For projects where you’re going down to raw wood or planning to re-stain, always start with a chemical stripper instead of sanding down the finish.
Why Use a Chemical Stripper?
Chemical strippers lift old finishes without cutting into the wood, preserving its integrity and details. Sanding through thick finishes can be harsh on the wood and risks damaging delicate edges or carvings. Stripping saves time and effort, reduces heavy sanding, and minimizes dust exposure-especially important for older finishes that may contain harmful materials like lead.
The Process for Stripping Furniture:
This method works for removing both paint and stain:
1. Brush On: Apply a liberal coat of stripper with a chip brush. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes. Reapply to any areas that begin to dry out. Some stubborn finishes may require multiple applications.
2. Scrape Off: Use a solvent-proof plastic scraper to remove the residue. For easier cleanup, collect the runoff using a plastic drop sheet.
3. Scrub with Water: Use a scrub brush with water to remove residue, especially in detailed areas that are hard to sand. (Optional: Use an After Wash product instead of water.)
4. Wipe Down: Wipe the surface clean with a damp terry cloth rag, rinsing as needed. Allow the piece to dry completely for at least 24 hours.
5. Finish Sanding: Once dry, do a fine finish sanding to smooth the surface. We typically use 220 grit, but adjust based on your specific piece.
Disposal Reminder:
When rinsing residue, always follow proper disposal regulations in your area. For solid wood pieces, you may spray down the surface outdoors, but ensure compliance with local environmental guidelines.
Stripping Supplies We Recommend:
creatorsold.io...
For Removing True Milk Paint:
www.realmilkpa...
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[@Pabloworldwide]

Thank you. My wife just purchased an old oak door that she wants to hang inside for our shared office space. I have sent her this video, which I know she will appreciate.
Thank you so very much. ❤😊

[@karinapfel650]

So helpful! Thank you.

[@savedbydesigntn]

So glad you found it helpful!

[@lindalary7760]

Thank you so much!!! ❤

[@OldLadyInFL]

I've seen some furniture restorers who refuse to use stripper except in rare cases because it raises the grain. What do you think about that? Are the natural strippers better at not doing that? I'm just starting to flip furniture, and I prefer to try to take it back to the original finish if I can, especially on anything mid-century or older. Thanks! I'm watching this whole series, because you are so knowledgeable and explain things so well. Thanks for taking the time to do this for us newbies.