Can I strip and restain an oak curio cabinet? China cabinet? Its big, and dont match...can I restain it?
Question:What do I do, how to start? Do i need to strip it, its not painted, but its solid wood, heavy, its stained, and maybe a glossy sealer?? do i need to do anything or can i stain over it?
Answers:
As a woodworker with over 30 years experience, I can tell you that "if it's wood, it can be fixed".
First, get a 1-gallon can of a good chemical stripper - I use the BIX brand. Follow the instructions on the can and remember that it will probably take more than one application of stripper to remove all of the old finish. Then you need to sand the entire surface with 220-grit, open coat sandpaper. (Sanding will remove the remaining stain, and smooth the surface.) Next, you need to apply the new stain - I prefer Minwax oil-based wiping stain. Do not sand after applying the stain. After the stain has completely dried, start applying whatever varnish you plan to use; again, I prefer Minwax polyurethane. You will need to apply at least two coats of varnish. After the first coat has dried, sand the entire surface with 320-grit sandpaper. After the second (or last) coat has dried, polish the surface with 1500-grit wet-or-dry sandpaper, using spray wax as a lubricant. This will give you a buttery-smooth finish.
well, depending on why it "don't match" you can most likely strip it. They have stuff called Navel Jelly that will strip all the old paint/ lacquer off. If you are a patient person you could do an amazing job. Since you say it is not painted then it is most likely a lacquer finish. You would need rubber gloves for the jelly since it will burn the skin and an old tooth brush or small wire brush. The instructions on the bottle of jelly are pretty self explanatory.
Use vinegar and wire wool to get the old polish and dirt off .it will also take the stain away if it not to deep in the wood.To lighten the wood i.e.bleaching it use a solution of oxalic acid.A deadly poison so be careful with it.Then just wax polish it .
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