Expert: Eileen Cronk - 11/22/2008

Question
Hey Eileen, I have a hutch that was mild to moderatly smoke damaged in a fire approx. 15 yrs. ago. Would like to refinish by X-mass 4 mom> No real scars just soot please tell me where to start? Either by just cleaning as good as possible or stripping and starting over. However I do not or am not certian what type of finish it has poly. stain. or what? Can you please help me!!!!!!!!!!! Thanx peeps/ Darin Eau Claire WI

Answer
Hi Darin
Nice to hear from you.
I would take the easiest route first.
It should not take too long.
Get a can of mineral spirits (called paint thinner or varsol in Canada).
Get a box of fine steel wool pads (not SOS).
Dip the wool into the spirits and give the cabinet a good scrub.
Work with the grain.
Dry with clean rags as you go.
This should remove all the dirt.
Next you have the option of a waxing or a coat of tung oil.
I prefer the tung oil.
Heres the one I like
http://www.swingpaints.com/1802.htm
You simply wipe on a coat with a lint free rag.
Now get busy..Christmas is fast approaching LOL.
And lucky Mom.
Regards
Eileen