How to Refinish Primitive Furniture
- 1). Cover your work area with a piece of plastic sheeting. Spread a layer of newspapers over your sheeting to absorb any spills. Open some windows or turn on some fans to ensure adequate ventilation.
- 2). Remove any hardware from your piece of primitive furniture. Use caution to avoid damaging the hardware or the underlying wood. Take off cushions and other fabric or leather items. Peel off any felt floor protectors from the legs of your furniture.
- 3). Clean your piece with a soft rag and soapy water. Mild dish detergent in a bucket of warm water cuts through grease and debris without damaging the finish. Wring out your rag so it is slightly damp, not dripping wet. Rinse the soap and residue off your furniture with a clean, damp cloth. Buff the surfaces dry with an old towel.
- 4). Apply a dab of chemical stripper to a small, obscure area of wood. Let the stripper set for the recommended amount of time, then rub it off with a dry cloth. If the wood appears undamaged, apply the stripper to the remainder of your wood. Rub the stripper into small joints and crevices with a cotton swab or artist's paintbrush. After allowing the stripper to absorb, remove the old finish with a soft cloth. Use steel wool to carefully buff off stubborn areas of finish. Wipe your stripped furniture with a damp cloth to rinse away any residue. Buff the surface with your towel.
- 5). Check for any loose joints where slats, legs or arms adjoin. Repair any damage with wood glue, screws or dowels, according to the original craftsmanship. Sand down rough areas of worn wood with fine-grade sandpaper, rubbing in the direction of the grain.
- 6). Seal your wood with a penetrating oil finish. Although this substance provides less protection than lacquers and varnishes, it helps retain the original appearance of your primitive furniture. Allow the oil to absorb, then buff the wood with a furniture wax.
- 7). Reattach or replace old hardware to complete the look of your primitive piece of furniture.
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