I wish to strip and refinish some mission-style oak chairs from Romania. They have a lacquer finish. What would be the easiest and/or best way of stripping them myself? Or, in lieu of that, what commercial-type of stripping method (i.e. caustic solution, solvent, etc.)? I wish to stain them in teak and the natural wood has a light greenish-grey cast; sort of like English Oak. Any recommendations?I am also thinking of a satin urethane finish (Minwax). Any other suggestions?
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If indeed the finish is plain lacquer (nitrocellulose), you might first just try rubbing them down with plain lacquer thinner. That will dissolve the existing finish and allow you to proceed with the new finish of your choice.
More likely, it is some sort of conversion finish -- in which case you will have to use a regular stripper. The best (in terms of effectiveness) contain methylene chloride.
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