Wood Stripping Methods
Chemical Stripping
This is slow, but good for small or fiddly projects. It is the best option for paint that might contain lead and can also be used on metal and glass. Some lacquers are not affected by chemical strippers, and you may need to use cellulose thinners to remove them.
For good results don't skimp on the amount of product used, or the time allowed for it to take effect. Remove most of the softened paint with a scraper or shavehook, then use coarse steel wool dipped in the stripper to remove ingrained paint or varnish. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for neutralising the stripped surface.
Methylated spirit removes shellac (a hard, glassy varnish) and French polish (the traditional polish found on many older pieces of furniture). To test the finish, rub it with fine steel wool moistened with methylated spirit. If it softens to a treacle-like consistency, the finish can be removed, using steel wool, shavehooks, and copious quantities of methylated spirit. It is slower and messier than other methods, but kind to the wood underneath. Restoring a French-polished surface is a professional job, although amateurs can achieve passable results on small areas like picture frames or chair legs. Never strip the finish from a potentially valuable item, as you will drastically reduce its worth.
White spirit and linseed oil (mixed in a ratio of 3:1) removes a build-up of dirty wax to prepare for a new wax finish. Apply it with a cloth or steel wool and rub vigorously. Finish by wiping over it with white spirit and leaving to dry. If you want to apply a different type of finish, the surface will need to be thoroughly sanded.
When using a chemical stripper, always wear protective clothing and work in a well-ventilated place.
Heat Stripping
This is quick and a good first option if you are tackling a large or fixed item, like a staircase, which you can finish stripping with chemical stripper.Heat stripping is not suitable, however, for paints containing lead.
Heat the paint with a hot-air gun until it softens enough to be removed with a scraper. The melted paint will still be hot, so collect it in an old metal, rather than plastic, container.
Hot-air guns are preferable to blowtorches, which can easily burn the wood. Guns have interchangeable nozzles to direct the heat to where it is needed, including one designed to protect glass.
Commercial Stripping
In this method, the item is immersed in a tank of caustic solution. It is a tempting option for large or very intricate pieces, but there are serious downsides.
- Some woods, such as oak, are badly discoloured by caustic stripping.
- Caustic solutions dissolve old-fashioned glues, causing joints to loosen and veneers to lift.
Some firms offer a gentler, non-caustic stripping service, but this process is more expensive.
