Tuesday, July 17, 2012

tips and tools for stripping furniture

I wish I had some magical tip to completely eliminate the necessity for stripping furniture.  I don't.  But, I can share the tools and products I use to make the process easier.


My favorite stripper is Citristrip, you can find it at most hardware stores.  It doesn't contain harsh chemicals like methylene chloride and because of this, is safe to use inside.  It says it stays active for up to 24 hours, but this is rare.  The citristrip needs to be wet to stay active, so if you're working in severe weather conditions, you'll need to continually reapply to allow it to work properly.

I use the same $3 brush to apply it on all my projects.  Avoid using anything nice because it will most likely be ruined.  Apply the Citristrip in thick coats for the best results.  To contain the mess, I roll out plastic or butcher paper over my drop cloths so the mess can be easily disposed of when I'm finished.
It was 115 degrees outside while I applied stripper to this antique vanity.  I was constantly reapplying thick layers to keep it wet enough to allow the product time to eat through the paint.


My favorite tool, is the in 5 in 1 painter's multi-tool.  It's cheap, it works great for scraping paint, applying putty and getting into tight crevices.  Get one!  I promise you won't regret it.


Some people like steel wool for removing paint in detailed areas or get to the last of the paint off before sanding.  I prefer a green scrubber from the kitchen.  They're easy to get a handle on, they don't gum up as quickly and they don't come apart like steel wool often does.  They work wonders when soaked in mineral spirits before scrubbing.


If you're really in a bind, struggling with stubborn paint in hard to reach nooks and crannies, then a steel wire brush can be your best friend, but I would be very careful because they can do a lot of damage on softer woods.


I hope this was helpful.  If you have any other go-to tips, I'd love to hear them!


11 comments:

  1. I'm trying to get up the nerve to strip a huge 12-drawer french dresser that I painted white a couple years ago. I want it back to its natural colour, which was actually really pretty! Thanks for the tips!

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  2. I've heard of people laying cling wrap on the piece once the have applied the stripper in order to keep it moist. Have you tried this?

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    1. What a great idea! I've never tried it, but will be next time. Thanks for sharing.

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  3. What great tips...will be trying out on some furniture this weekend. Love the pieces you've done!!

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  4. I have a set of dental tools that I use to gently remove paint from tight spots. they really help get along long lines as well without much effort. Have no idea where I came upon them but they work!
    Kim@reposhture.blogspot.com

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    1. Dental tools? Who would've thought, but sounds like a great idea.

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  5. thanks for this post, Natalie. I just took on a big project for my mother in law and have started stripping but haven't been happy with the product I'm using. I think I'll try your recommendation.

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  6. Melinda keJuly 18, 2012

    Thanks for sharing this! I just bought a dresser that I plan on painting and this information will come in handy! I was wondering if you seal your furniture pieces and what you would use? I'm not sure if I should seal my dresser when I'm finished and really have no idea what is best to use. I've heard that some sealants an cause the paint to yellow, and since I will be painting it white I'm nervous about it yellowing. I would appreciate any advice you can give!

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  7. What an idea, I have to say furniture and its beautiful and amazing.

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  8. This is really useful and of much help. But I wonder if it has odor? I had an allergic rhinitis; can I still use this product?
    Eco-Strip.com

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  9. Whoa! This is great. I am glad you shared this information. Thanks for sharing.
    Eco-Strip.com

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