How Do I Strip Furniture

Stripping furniture is a great way to give it a new look or to restore it to its original finish. There are a few different ways to strip furniture, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The best method for you will depend on the type of furniture you have, the condition it's in, and the results you're hoping to achieve.

Here are the three most common methods for stripping furniture:

Chemical strippers are the most effective way to remove paint and varnish from furniture. They are available in liquid, gel, and paste form, and they work by breaking down the finish. Chemical strippers can be harmful to your health and the environment, so it's important to use them in a well-ventilated area and to wear protective clothing and gloves.
Heat guns are a good option for stripping furniture that is in good condition. They work by heating the finish until it bubbles and peels off. Heat guns can be dangerous, so it's important to use them with caution and to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
Sanding is the most labor-intensive way to strip furniture, but it's also the most effective. Sanding removes the finish by abrasion, so it's important to use the correct grit of sandpaper and to sand in the direction of the grain. Sanding can be dusty, so it's important to wear a dust mask and to work in a well-ventilated area.

Once you've chosen a stripping method, you'll need to gather the necessary supplies.

Chemical stripper (if using)
Heat gun (if using)
Sandpaper (if using)
Scraper
Steel wool
Tack cloth
Protective clothing and gloves
Well-ventilated area

Once you have your supplies, you can begin stripping the furniture.

If using a chemical stripper:

Apply the chemical stripper to the furniture according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Allow the stripper to work for the recommended amount of time.
Scrape off the softened finish with a scraper.
Rinse the furniture with water and allow it to dry completely.

If using a heat gun: