Expert: Eileen Cronk - 1/19/2008

Question
I have a duncan phyfe table approx 100 yrs old that has been repainted,Can it be restored ?

Answer
Hi Marylou
Nice to hear from you.
Certainly the paint can be removed and a new finish applied.
Not sure though if you actually mean "it has been repainted" which indicates to me the piece was originally painted or you meant it has been painted over the wood finish.
If it has been painted, yes the paint can be removed.
If it has been repainted over an original paint job and you wish to get back to original paint, there is no way I can tell you how to remove the top paint and leave the underlying original paint. This type of thing is left in the hands of a restorer.
Really confused now LOL.
Actually I think you want to go back to the wood finish which this table no doubt had when it was made.
Marylou a small table like this would be a great project to do yourself as long as you do not damage the wood during the process.
Get back to me if you need my stripping instructions or any clarification you can add.
Kindest Regards
Eileen