How To Refinish Old Cedar Chest
How To Refinish an Old Cedar Chest
Introduction
If you have an old cedar chest sitting around in your home, you may be wondering what you can do with it. Refinishing a cedar chest is a great way to give new life to a vintage piece. Refinishing an old cedar chest is not difficult and you can have your cedar chest looking beautiful again in just a few steps. Read on to learn how to refinish an old cedar chest.
Steps for Refinishing an Old Cedar Chest:
1. Strip the Old Finish
The first step in refinishing an old cedar chest is to strip off the old finish. This can be done with a chemical stripper or a sanding block. If you are using a chemical stripper, be sure to wear protective goggles and gloves and to work in a well-ventilated area. Use a scraper or putty knife to remove the stripper and the old finish. If you are sanding, use a medium-grit sandpaper and sand the entire surface of the chest until the old finish is gone.
2. Clean the Wood
Next, use a damp rag to remove any dust and debris from the surface of the cedar chest. Be sure to remove all of the dust and dirt before you start staining or painting the wood. You may also want to use a wood cleaner to remove any dirt or grime that has built up on the surface of the wood.
3. Sand the Wood
Once you have removed the old finish and cleaned the wood, you will need to sand it. Use a fine-grit sandpaper and sand the surface of the wood. This will help to smooth out any rough spots and make the wood ready for staining or painting. Be sure to sand with the grain of the wood to avoid damaging the surface.
4. Apply the Stain or Paint
Once the wood is sanded, you can begin to apply the stain or paint. If you are going to stain the cedar chest, be sure to use a stain that is made for outdoor use. This will help to protect the wood from the elements and ensure that the finish will last for years to come. If you are going to paint the cedar chest, be sure to use a paint that is made for outdoor use. Once the stain or paint has been applied, let it dry completely before you apply any additional coats.
5. Apply a Clear Coat
Once the stain or paint has dried, you can apply a clear coat of polyurethane or varnish. This will help to protect the wood and make it last even longer. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying the clear coat. Once the clear coat has dried, your cedar chest is ready to be enjoyed.
Conclusion
Refinishing an old cedar chest is a great way to give new life to a vintage piece. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily refinish your old cedar chest and have it looking beautiful again. So grab your supplies, get to work, and enjoy your new and improved cedar chest!
