Expert: Eileen Cronk - 5/18/2008

Question
I recently acquired my grandparents' 90 year old oak dining table.  Unfortunately for me, the people who had it before stripped the original finish and then "antiqued" it olive green.  The green, I am assuming, was a water-based paint applied about 40 years ago.  It totally permeated the grain and I have not been able to get it out despite using stripper and sanding.  Please advise how I can get rid of the green grain.  If not, is there a stain that will cover up the green?

Answer
Hi Kathy
Nice to hear from you.
What a shame this was done to this table.
Have you tried an MC  stripper?
Its the strongest made.
Here is a good one.
http://www.jamestowndistributors.com/userportal/show_product.do?pid=1695&familyN...
If this will not remove green paint no stripper will.
You will then have to try wood bleach but its doubtful.
Just get a small can of this stripper.
Follow all directions.
Get one of those brass brushes used for stripping.
They look like a toothbrush.
Brush the stripper on liberally. Leave at least 15 minutes but keep the stripper wet by applying more if it dries.
Then start brushing. Don't be too agressive with the brush as the metal teeth can actually harm the wood if used with a heavy hand.
This should get considerably more green paint off at least.
Then try a test of your stain. You may be pleasantly surprised to see the stain may cover any thats left.
Nothing ventured nothing gained.
Keep me posted.
Regards
Eileen