AboutEileen Cronk Expertise Hi..I can answer most questions about the repairing,stripping and refinishing of all your old furniture and wood items(the things we call antiques)I can give advice about what to buy/avoid at auctions/flea markets. I do not give appraisals on antiques.
Experience I have been refinishing antiques for the past 30yrs. While I have taken several courses over the years,I have found that "hands on" learning is the best teacher. Perhaps I can help you avoid some of the mistakes I made while learning.
Question I'm going to attempt to re-finish our 35 year old Vilas maple table.Can I still buy the proper stain? Should I sand or strip or both. The table is in fairly good condition but has a few small dings. Any tips would be appreciated.Thanks, Bernie Alcorn, New Brunswick, Canada
Answer Hi Bernie
Nice to hear from you.
I am 99% certain your Vilas maple table will have a colored lacquer finish on it.
This will have to be removed with paint stripper.
I use Circa 1850 brand or our Home Hardware stores carry a good store brand stripper too. Both of these are mc strippers and the strongest the stores carry.
Bernie you specifically ask if you can buy the proper stain for your table and the answer is no if you mean what is currently on it now.
But you can certainly get the table looking pretty good with a Minwax oil stain and a clear coat.
Just remember that maple is extremely hard and does not absorb stain well.
There are dye stains and gel stains that you can use also.
Hope this helps
Regards
Eileen
