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Question
Hi Eileen- thank you so much for your advise. If it is a laquer finish, it seems like a professional job is needed here. How do I know whether it is a laquer finish, or another finish that I may be able to remove myself?
Thank you- Charlotte
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The text above is a follow-up to ...
-----Question-----
Hi Eileen- I have an oak coffee table (10 years old) that has water marks on the top and the finish (not sure what kind of finish) has started to flake off in places. What is the best way to repair/refinsih?
Thank you- Charlotte
-----Answer-----
Hi Charlotte
Nice to hear from you.
Without seeing your table, I think it would have a laquer finish.
The finish will have to be completely removed, the table top restained to match the legs and a new finish applied.
Charlotte..have you ever done this type of work before?
Getting laquer off can be hard or easy LOL...mostly hard.
And replacing the laquer is next to impossible for a novice..and dangerous if handled improperly.
Personally I would start with trying to remove the finish with paint and varnish remover.
Then I would apply new stain then a couple of coats of poly.
I will not get into alternatives with you for fear of you doing damage to yourself LOL
And really if the table is 10 years old and in this condition all you will do is improve it.
Give this a try and get back to me.
Kindest Regards
Eileen
Hi again Charlotte.
Heres what I know...or think I do LOL
Laquer will dissolve in laquer thinner.
Laquer thinner is available at the hardware in a small can for about $3.99
So if the laquer thinner dissolves the finish, you have a laquer finish.
Laquer thinner can certainly have a softening effect on all finishes but not much.
Paint stripper will soften laquer but you need to do some scraping.
Paint stripper would be my choice for you as laquer thinner is vile stuff to work with and highly flammable.
And once you have removed the finish from the table top you can replace it with whatever you choose.
Is that clear as mud LOL
Get back to me if necessary.
Kindest Regards
Eileen
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Questioner's Rating
| Rating(1-10) | Knowledgeability = 10 | Clarity of Response = 10 | Politeness = 10 |
| Comment | Thank you so much Eileen. Very helpful information. I may take the table to a professional and have it done right. Charlotte | ||
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Cabinets, Furniture, Woodworks
Answers by Expert:
Eileen 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.
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