How To Refinish Old Rocking Chair

Introduction

A rocking chair can be an heirloom piece of furniture that has been passed down through the generations. It can also be a piece that you found at an antique store or a flea market, and you decided to give it a new life. Doing a refinish on an old rocking chair is a great way to bring back the life to a neglected piece of furniture. A rocking chair, when done properly, can look stunning and become the focal point of a room.

Removing Old Finishes

When you are refinishing an old rocking chair, the first step is to remove the old finish. The most common finishes on old furniture are lacquer, varnish, shellac and paint. To remove these finishes, you will need to purchase a chemical stripper. Make sure you use a stripper that is designed for the type of finish you are removing. Follow the instructions on the container for proper use.

When stripping the old finish from the rocking chair, it is best to work in a well-ventilated area and to wear protective clothing and safety goggles. Once the stripper is applied to the chair, it will need to be scraped off with a putty knife or razor blade. Remove as much of the finish as possible. Then wipe the chair down with a cloth soaked in mineral spirits to remove any residue. Allow the chair to dry completely before continuing.

Sanding the Chair

Once the old finish is removed, the next step is to sand the chair. Start with a medium-grit sandpaper and sand the entire chair. Pay extra attention to any areas that may have rough edges or splinters. Use a fine-grit sandpaper to finish the sanding process. Make sure to sand in the direction of the grain of the wood. Wipe the chair down with a damp cloth to remove any sawdust.

Applying the Stain

Staining the chair is the next step. Choose a stain that is appropriate for the type of wood the chair is made of. To apply the stain, use a sponge brush or a lint-free cloth. Start at the top of the chair and work your way down. Make sure to wipe off any excess stain. Allow the stain to dry completely before continuing.

Applying the Finish

The final step in refinishing an old rocking chair is to apply the finish. A polyurethane finish is a good choice for a rocking chair. Apply the finish with a brush, working in the direction of the grain. Make sure to go over the entire chair. Allow the finish to dry completely before using the chair.

Conclusion

Refinishing an old rocking chair is a great way to bring new life to an old piece of furniture. With some patience and attention to detail, it is possible to create a beautiful piece of furniture that will last for years to come. Whether you are restoring an heirloom or simply giving new life to an old chair, refinishing an old rocking chair is a great way to add a touch of charm to any room in your home.