How To Strip And Refinish Antique Furniture

What You Need To Get Started

When it comes to refinishing antique furniture, the first thing you need to do is gather the necessary materials. You will need a stripping agent, such as paint stripper or chemical stripper, a putty knife, a brush, sandpaper, a cloth, and some type of refinishing agent. Depending on the type of furniture you are working on, you may also need some additional materials, such as steel wool or a wire brush. It is important to find out as much information as possible about the furniture before beginning, as different types of furniture require different stripping and refinishing methods.

Stripping the Furniture

Once you have gathered the necessary materials, the next step is to strip the furniture of its existing finish. Start by applying the stripping agent to the furniture, using the brush or putty knife to spread it evenly over the surface. The amount of time it takes for the stripping agent to work will depend on the type of finish and the type of stripping agent being used. Once the finish has been removed, use the cloth to wipe away any excess stripping agent and to remove any of the finish that may still be on the furniture.

Sanding the Furniture

Once the old finish has been removed from the furniture, it is time to begin sanding. This can be done by hand, using sandpaper, or with a power sander. Begin by sanding the entire surface of the furniture, working in one direction. Make sure to go over all areas a few times, and to pay special attention to any areas that have been damaged or have nicks and scratches. Once the entire surface has been sanded, use steel wool or a wire brush to remove any of the remaining finish, and to smooth out any rough edges.

Refinishing the Furniture

Once the furniture has been sanded, it is time to begin refinishing it. Depending on the type of furniture you are working on, you may need to apply a sealant or a base coat before applying the finish. Make sure to read the instructions on the refinishing product before beginning, as different refinishing products require different methods of application. Once the refinish has been applied, allow it to dry completely before applying a second coat. Depending on the type of finish being used, you may need to apply up to three or four coats before the furniture is completely refinished.

Finishing Up

Once the furniture has been completely refinished, it is time to add the final touches. Begin by wiping the entire piece with a soft cloth to remove any dust or dirt that may have accumulated. If desired, you can then add some furniture wax or polish to the piece to help protect the finish. Lastly, if there are any nicks or scratches, you can fill them in with a wood filler to help restore the original look of the furniture.

Conclusion

Stripping and refinishing antique furniture can be a long and tedious process, but with a bit of patience and the right materials, it can be done. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can bring new life to any piece of antique furniture, and make it look just as beautiful as it did when it was new.