Tip #45
Finishing Touches
Part 5 of 6 - Refinishing (continued)
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Chemical Stripping Process

Unless your project is heavily loaded with old paint and varnish, start out with chemicals. Remember that stripping chemicals are almost always harmful. Respect them as you would any other potentially dangerous woodworking tool - approach their use with caution. Avoid skin contact; wear rubber gloves and eye protection. Work outside or in a well ventilated area; pour chemicals very carefully to avoid splashing; clean everything up thoroughly after use.

There are two types of chemical strippers - caustic and solvent. Each is designed for a different use. Caustics have a water base. You spread them on the project, wait for them to work, then wash them off with soap and water. But water may raise the grains of some woods and ruin plywoods and veneers. That's why you should use caustics only on solid, close-grained woods. On other materials, use solvent strippers. These typically have an alcohol or petroleum base and won't harm your more delicate projects.

Since most chemical strippers are purchased ready-mixed, follow the manufacturer's instructions TO THE LETTER when using them. Here's the general method of application:

Using an old, cheap brush, apply a liberal coat of stripper over the entire surface of the project. Reapply, this time, working the stripper into the finish with your brush. Let everything set for 5 to 15 minutes (according to instructions), or until the old finish has softened. Test the finish with a putty knife, and when it's soft enough, scrape it away. Reapply a third time to stubborn areas and scrape again. Finally, wash the project thoroughly - with soap and water if you're using a caustic stripper and with denatured alcohol if you're using a solvent type.

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