Expert: Anderson's Restorations-Rob Anderson - 7/13/2008

Question
1st ever time to attempt refinish anything,got two pieces of two pedal machines(one good bottom, and one with decent top and machine - filthy, gooey, but looks like underneath could make one decent machine.  Where do I go to find how to even begin??  BB

Answer
Your first stop should be your local library and get some books on refinishing. This will help you with some general knowledge on what your about to attempt. My advice in general would be to not use a water rinse stripper. The sewing machine is probably veneered and you don't want to put water on it. Use a refinisher or liquid stripper and steel wool to remove the bulk of the old finish, then use clean stripper and fine steel wool to do a final clean.
Do any repairs such as gluing loose veneer or bad joints,then use one of the wipe-on finishes applying several coats according to the directions. Don't use a gloss unless that's what you really want, cause antique items never had a shinny finish.
Clean and repaint your base if necessary using a flat or satin spray paint.
 Be very careful with your used steel wool or any rags and dispose of them properly. Only put stripper in a container with a lid, like a coffee can, so it won't evaporate. Where gloves when stripping and safety glasses. Old tooth brushes are great for getting into cracks or carvings.
 Good luck with this and send me a picture when your done.
 Rob
 www.andersonsrestorations.com