The 4 Ways to Strip Furniture
Stripping furniture can be a rewarding yet challenging task, transforming a worn piece into a stunning focal point in your home. There are various methods to strip furniture, each with its unique pros and cons. Whether you choose to use a chemical stripper, a carbide scraper, a soda blaster, or sanding, understanding these techniques will help you achieve the best results. Often, a combination of methods may be necessary to completely remove old finishes, and regardless of the approach, sanding is essential before applying the final finish to ensure a smooth, even surface.
1. Chemical Stripper: Chemical strippers are solvents designed to break down and remove old paint, varnish, and other finishes. One major advantage of chemical strippers is their effectiveness on intricate carvings and hard-to-reach areas, as they can penetrate crevices better than mechanical methods. However, they can be messy and require proper ventilation and protective gear due to potentially harmful fumes. Additionally, chemical strippers can be harsh on the wood if not used correctly, so it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely. Two great options for stripper are Klean Strip or Green EZ.
2. Carbide Scraper: A carbide scraper is a hand tool with a sharp, replaceable blade designed to scrape off finishes. This method offers precise control, allowing you to remove finishes without damaging the wood underneath. It’s particularly effective on flat surfaces and edges, however they do make detail carbide scrapers that are great for getting into small details. The primary downside is that it can be labor-intensive and time-consuming, especially on larger pieces or those with intricate details. Moreover, using a scraper incorrectly can gouge the wood, so it requires a careful and steady hand.
3. Soda Blaster: Soda blasting uses baking soda particles propelled by compressed air to strip finishes. This method is gentle on the wood and environmentally friendly, as it generates minimal waste and uses non-toxic materials. Soda blasting is highly effective at removing finishes from detailed and textured surfaces without damaging the wood. However, it requires specialized equipment and can be more expensive than other methods. Additionally, it can be messy, as the soda particles need to be cleaned up afterward. Personally, I purchased an inexpensive soda gun nozzle off of Amazon that connects to our our compressor and siphons directly out of the media bag. As long as you have a good compressor, this gun will work great for you! I purchased the media from Harbor Freight.
4. Sanding: Sanding is a straightforward method involving the use of sandpaper or a power sander to remove finishes. It is versatile and can be used on almost any surface, providing a smooth finish ready for refinishing. The main advantage of sanding is its accessibility; sandpaper and sanders are readily available and easy to use. However, sanding can be labor-intensive, particularly for removing thick or multiple layers of finish. It can also create a lot of dust, requiring proper protective gear and a well-ventilated workspace. Here are a couple great orbital sander options – the Dewalt sander which is $79 or this SKIL sander, which is $35. This is a great sandpaper bundle that provides you with most grits you will need.
In many cases, stripping furniture may require a combination of these methods. For example, you might use a chemical stripper to remove most of the finish, followed by a scraper for stubborn areas, and then sand to smooth the surface. Regardless of the stripping method chosen, sanding is an essential final step to prepare the wood for the new finish, ensuring it adheres properly and looks even. By understanding the pros and cons of each technique, you can choose the best approach for your project, transforming your furniture with confidence and care.
