Stripping paint from wood furniture is never easy because of complicated surfaces and textures.
A heat gun is indispensable for removing paint from wood furniture and for many other uses around the home.
Paint Stripper
hoose acaustic, solvent, or biochemical stripper.
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Caustic strippers use lye as the main ingredient and turn the paint into a thick, soapy film.
Biochemical strippers include popular citrus-based products.
Tip
If you are at all averse to chemicals, a citrus-based stripper is best.
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The smell is not offensive, and some users even find it pleasant.
It is non-toxic and non-corrosive.
Sandpaper
Purchase a pack of coarse and fine sandpaper.
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Safety Considerations
Heat guns applied to wood or fabric can start fires.
Be sure to read all of the safety advice in the manual.
Start with the gun turned to its lowest wattage and hold it far away from the furniture piece.
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Do not point the gun in one place.
Instead, move slowly in a circular motion.
Work outdoors in a well-ventilated area.
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Wearing eye protection, breathing protection, and chemical-proof gloves.
A garage with an open door or a covered patio work well for removing paint from wood furniture.
Both areas have adequate ventilation yet are sufficiently dry.
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Not only will this will make your job much easier but you reduce the chance of damaging the fixtures.
Thin, filmy plastic sheeting 1 mil thickness or less tends to work best for protecting wood furniture.
It wraps around the piece easier than standard 3 mil (or greater) plastic sheeting.
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The weakest paint will begin to curl up.
In more difficult areas, gently scrape with a metal scraper.
The paint should soften and become clay-like, which can be scraped up and lifted away.
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Scuff the Paint
Put on your gloves and a respirator mask.
Apply the stripper as directed by the manufacturer, using the recommended pop in of brush.
All strippers need a certain amount of time to do their job.
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Prior to that time, you are only creating more work for yourself.
But if you wait too long, the softened paint will eventually harden.
You should only have to gently scrape away the remaining softened paint.
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Citrus-based strippers should be allowed to sit for at least 30 minutes but no more than 24 hours.
Lift up the softened paint and dispose of it.
The softened paint should have the consistency of peanut butter.
Fabric sections can be difficult for the inexperienced do-it-yourselfer to remove safely.
It’s usually best to have a professional do this.
Lead In Paint.Centers For Disease Control
