Replies

1. 
   loucarabasi | Oct 31, 2006 03:31am | #1

   it wont burst into flames, try rubbing lacquer thinner on it first. let that dry for 3 hours then run an iron on it at a low setting. then you can sand it out.

   -Lou

1. 
   user-127915 | Oct 31, 2006 03:44am | #2

   Thanks! I wasn't sure about the kerosene I was worried I would turn the dresser into firewood.

2. 
   BruceS | Oct 31, 2006 04:50am | #3

   Kerosene is nothing more than less refined mineral spirits.   That Oil is probably well penetrated,  and to maintain an even look I would give the whole piece the same kerosene treatment.   It's not much different than wiping down a piece with mineral spirits before finishing.

   Work Safe,  Count to 10 when your done for the day !!

   Bruce S. 

    

1. 
   user-127915 | Oct 31, 2006 05:52am | #4

   I want to paint my dresser.If I put kerosene on the whole thing will that damage the paint job?

    

1. 
   BruceS | Oct 31, 2006 03:55pm | #5

   I  would still wipe it down to clean off any sanding dust.  Then use a good sanding primer then a coat of oil based enamel.  I've used Krylon sprays on Kids dressers, cribs and changing tables with good success.  It's tough.Work Safe,  Count to 10 when your done for the day !!

   Bruce S. 

    

2. 
   HowardAcheson | Oct 31, 2006 05:18pm | #6

   As Bruce has said, kerosene is just one step down the distilling process from mineral spirits. (As an aside, it's actually less flamable than mineral spirits). However, because kerosene is less refined, it contain more oil and the residue of oil is what is coloring (staining) your wood. Once the kerosene fully evaporates, the oil remains.If you are going to paint, there is no reason the apply kerosene to the whole item. The problem you are going to have is the kerosen odor.
   The odor can be quite stong and will last almost forever. To seal in the odor, apply two coats of shellac to all parts of the top. You can also use a shellac based primer like Zinsser B-I-N (http://www.zinsser.com/product_detail.asp?ProductID=10). Don't sand between or after the coats. Then you can apply your oil based top coat and should have no further problems.Howie.........

1. 
   forestgirl | Nov 01, 2006 06:17pm | #7

   "The odor can be quite stong and will last almost forever."  Thank God you brought some sanity to this discussion. 

   forestgirl -- you can take the girl out of the forest, but you can't take the forest out of the girl ;-) 

   Edited 11/1/2006 11:21 am by forestgirl