Replies

1. 
   LRutherfor1 | Feb 19, 2003 06:33am | #1

   First I should tell you that when you remove the original finish, it destroys the value of the piece.  Since you're keeping it in the family, that's OK. 

   In refinishing old pieces, I've found that most of the finishes are oil base, and several layers thick.  The best method I've found is to use a good paint remover.  After you've applied a liberal coat, don't mess with it until it's had time to work.  Read the can it comes in for directions.  When removing the remover, don't use a wire brush, steel wool, or other abrasives, as they will raise the grain in the wood.  I normally use a "scrubby-sponge" I steal out of my wife's kitchen, and lots of mineral sprits.  Dry the wood after each application, and yes, there will be several applications if it has several coats of finish.  Dental picks can carefully be used in the hard to reach places, but again, be careful.

   Best advise is to take your time and work at it with love.  Heirlooms are hard to come by, and impossible to replace.  Good Luck,

   Len (Len's Custom Woodworking)

1. 
   Martyn | Feb 20, 2003 12:45am | #2

   I don't know that the frames have much value, Len (especially to my wife), although the method of construction and of mounting the photographs is rather interesting and I'd like to keep them for that reason if nothing else. So the primary issue is one of raising the wife-acceptance-factor by improving the aesthetics.

   I doubt that they ever had more than a single coat of stain followed by eighty years of UV and dust, so I don't think there's much for paint remover to remove unless it can dissolve the stain too. Are there any brands you recommend?

1. 
   LRutherfor1 | Feb 20, 2003 07:18pm | #3

   For light jobs I use "Klean-Strip KS-3 Premium".  Most of the home centers carry it.  Make sure to use it with plenty of ventilation, and wear rubber gloves.  Don't use a foam brush to apply.  It will melt.  It cleans up nicely with mineral sprits.

   I know about the wife factor.  I refinished an old side table a couple of years ago, and my wife liked it.  When I got the next one in the shop, I had her do it (I helped her with the detail sanding).  She was so proud that it now sits right inside the front door of the house so everyone coming in can comment on it.

   Good Luck,

   Len (Len's Custom Woodworking)

1. 
   Martyn | Feb 20, 2003 07:47pm | #4

   Thanks for the tips, Len - especially the one about the side table...that's an excellent strategy and one that I hadn't thought of. I wonder if it'll work with my next car restoration..?

1. 
   LRutherfor1 | Feb 21, 2003 12:58am | #5

   It might, but side tables are replaceable if you break it.

   Len