Expert: Eileen Cronk - 12/3/2007

Question
Hi Elaine,

I Live in Australia and over the weekend my partner and I purchased an old "edwardian pottery cupboard" that is badly in need of some TLC. The previous owner decided to put a coat of white paint on the front only. What I want to do is take it back to its original beauty but as I have never done this before I am unsure where to start. I am unsure wether to sand it or just use a paint stripper and slowly take the horrible white paint off it.  Also what kind of stain would you recommend once I have taken all the outer crap off?

thanks in advance
Lisa

Answer
Hi Lisa
Nice to hear from you.
I think this is the first question I have answered from Australia. How nice. I am in Canada.
Yes I would get the paint off the front.
You will never sand the paint off, so paint stripper must be used.
And do not sand after stripping either.
Lisa I wish I knew if this was hardwood or softwood you are going to strip.
If its hardwood, it will be easy.
If its softwood, and they painted because the finish was off, the white will have absorbed into the wood and will be terrible to remove.
Not sure if you need my full stripping instructions, but just ask.
Can't give you stain info without knowing the wood and the original color.
Also a picture would be great too.
In the meantime get an ID on the wood if possible.
Get back to me.
Kindest Regards
Eileen