Advice - First Time Refinishing

2529 Views 25 Replies 5 Participants Last post by StacyTarkowski, Jun 5, 2013

StacyTarkowski

Discussion Starter · May 28, 2013

Hi there! I've just finished sanding a bedroom set that has been in my family for years. I am not sure what the wood type is but I am assuming someone here may be able to tell by the photos I'm attaching. I would love any advice/feedback for a first-time stainer on the best method to finish these pieces (There is another dresser not pictured). I'd like to go with a light stain because I really like the natural look they have now but do want to add a LITTLE depth to them. I would like a good protective finish as well. I've been reading about poly/stains in one (not hearing good things) and I've read that poly can be difficult to use. So, I'm a little nervous. I don't care for spray paint methods and would prefer a wipe on/wipe off or brush method. All tips and advice are greatly appreciated!

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StacyTarkowski

Discussion Starter · #21 · Jun 4, 2013

Thanks, guys!

This project is complete! I've posted a public album on my Facebook page but wanted to share a photo here as well. Thanks for the advice! I'm moving on to my next project!

https://www.facebook.com/stacy.oaks...28153963884.1073741839.100000201158265&type=3
https://www.facebook.com/stacy.oaks...28153963884.1073741839.100000201158265&type=3

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cabinetman

· #22 · Jun 4, 2013

StacyTarkowski said:
This project is complete! I've posted a public album on my Facebook page but wanted to share a photo here as well. Thanks for the advice! I'm moving on to my next project!

https://www.facebook.com/stacy.oaks...28153963884.1073741839.100000201158265&type=3

Now that looks right nice. Great work.

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HowardAcheson

· #23 · Jun 5, 2013

First, sanding is a poor way to remove an existing finish. Sanding will not remove the finish that has penetrated the surface of the wood. Any residual finish will cause a new stain to be absorbed unevenly and color the wood unevenly. The proper way to remove an existing finish is with a chemical paint remover containing methylene chloride. I would strongly recommend you perform this step before you apply any stain. If you decide to just apply a clear finish, the residual finish becomes less problematic. And, do not apply any pre-stain conditioner unless you decide to proceed with a a stain.

As has been suggested, using a wipe-on thinned poly is one of the easiest ways to get a good finish.

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