Beautiful wood that contains prominent knot marks could be revealed after stripping paint from a dual set of bookcases that were purchased from a salvage shop. Use some furniture refinishing techniques to restore the cases that will be used to display your literary collection.

The Stripping And Cleaning Process

You may be curious as to why someone would use paint to cover the natural wood, but the decision could have been as simple as the previous owner trying to customize the cases by adding a product that was the same color as the furnishings or décor that was in the room where the cases were set up. The paint stripping process can be tedious, especially if several layers of paint were applied to the surface of each case.

Refrain from using a paint chipper if you are concerned about gouging the top layers of the wood. Use a paint thinner product and a sponge to soften and remove the paint. Paint thinners come in liquid, gel, and paste forms and should be applied to the sponge, prior to wiping the thinner across the surface of each case. Rinse the sponge out as needed and if there are any flecks of paint that lift from each case's surface. If needed, use a flexible plastic scraper to aid with the removal.

This type of tool is much different than a metal chipper and you will be able to guide the tip of the tool across each case, without needing to worry about leaving marks in the wood. When the paint has been removed, you may notice that the wood underneath has a dull, hazy appearance. Use a wood cleaning agent to clean both cases and use extra care in cleaning small crevices or scrollwork that is part of each case's design. A cotton swab can be used to apply the cleaning agent to intricate woodwork sections.

A Glossy Or Matte Refinishing Technique

If you aren't able to visually identify what type of wood the cases are constructed of, have a furniture dealer assess them for you. Since some types of wood refinishing products will work better with certain wood types, knowing that you own a set of oak or pine cases may alter your stain and varnish selections you would use if you were to discover that you own a set of mahogany cases.

Wood stain can be brushed across each case, but brush marks may be evident if you apply thick coats of stain. For precision and a seamless finish, use a soft absorbent cloth as your application tool and apply the stain with the direction of the wood. A glossy or a matte finish should be sealed to protect the stain. Use a translucent varnish product and apply a couple coats of over the stain.