Expert: Eileen Cronk - 6/13/2009

Question
QUESTION: I'm in the process of refinishing an old oak table and chairs.  The chairs are oak but not the match to the table.  The chairs have a pickled oak finish on them and I'm having a hard time getting the old finish off and lifted up out of the grain of the wood so that I can finish both the table and chairs to match. I'd also like advise on what type of finish to put on both the table and chairs.  What are your thoughts on say a tung oil based urethane product?

ANSWER: Hi Mary
Nice to hear from you.
It could be you are using the wrong stripper.
This will take a heavy duty MC stripper.
For a table top I recommend a poly finish.
I use Minwax oil based fast drying poly in a satin sheen.
For chairs I use tung oil. I like it because down the road the chairs can be freshened with another coat whenever they start to show wear. And chairs that are used every day will certainly wear LOL.
Hope this helps
Regards
Eileen

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Eileen,

Thanks for the advise.  What is MC stripper and where do you get it, is there a name brand?  Thanks Mary

Answer
Hi again Mary
You can purchase an MC (methylene chloride) steripper at any hardware store.
Circa 1850 is one brand name. Home Hardwares house brand is a good one too.
Just ask at the store. Be sure to follow instructions exactly.
Keep me posted.
Regards
Eileen