Collectibles-General (Antiques)/Antique wooden top

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Question
The wooden top of my antique Tibettan cabinet is uneven due to previous attempts (not mine) to even it out by pooring enough varnish over it just so that it evens out without attending to the underlying bumps and scratches.  How do I get rid of this messy top (and its equally messy sides) without scraping off too much and thereby losing the natural wood discoloration that occurred over the years.
Thank you in advance. Paul

Answer
Hi Paul
Nice to hear from you.
Paul this finish someone poured on will need to be removed.
The only way is with paint stripper.
As long as you use no sandpaper you will not loose the natural aging color of the wood.
You must however use the proper stripper.
This is the one
http://www.jamestowndistributors.com/userportal/show_product.do?pid=1694&familyN...
This stripper needs no after wash or neutralizing and "DOES NOT" raise the grain which then forces sanding.
Do not attempt to scrape this off.
If you need my full instructions just ask.
Regards
Eileen

Collectibles-General (Antiques)

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Eileen Cronk

Expertise

I can answer most questions about the repairing and refinishing of all your old furniture items (the things we call antiques). I can also give you advice on what wood items to choose and what wood items to avoid at auctions, flea markets etc. I DO NOT give appraisals on antiques as this is not my field of expertise.

Experience

I have been repairing, refinishing and of course buying old furniture for the past 30 years. On any given weekend I can be found at auction sales or flea markets searching out a good buy. I have taken several courses in this area over the years, but I find "Hands On" learning to be the best teacher. I can help you avoid the pitfalls and problems of this wonderful rewarding craft.

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