Expert: Eileen Cronk - 2/25/2008

Question
We have an antique oak pedestal table with 7 leaves and chairs that unfortunately were pickled many years ago. We tried stripping one of the leaves and it just doesn't work. We want it to be dark golden oak.  Any suggestions as to what we can do?

Answer
Hi Chris
Nice to hear from you.
Sorry you have this problem.
If you tried stripping and it did not work, the only further suggestion I can offer is try a different stripper.
Try Circa 1850 paint and varnish remover.
I'm not saying it will work as its my experience these finishes rarely come off but its worth a try.
The pickling will be most prominent in the grain. Use a hard toothbrush along with the stripper.
I recently stripped a small oak vanity that had been pickled.
The white stain remained in the grain but I found that a coat of Minwax stain covered the white..it actually stained the white color.
Not saying this will be what happens with your table leaf, but first off get the proper stripper and then try the stain.
I used walnut stain and perhaps golden oak won't do so well but its worth a try.
Nothing ventured nothing gained.
Regards
Eileen