Replies

1. 
   Getchen | May 29, 2000 01:00pm | #1

   *
   If you are going to paint it don't go to the trouble of stripping it! Just paint it.

1. 
   Linda_Hall | May 29, 2000 03:48pm | #2

   *Well, I started to. I used Latex Enamel on one area to see what would happen. The painted area doesn't look good. It has several bubble type spots and doesn't appear to be stable. So I assumed that whatever the finish was would have to be removed. Thanks for any information anyone can give me.

1. 
   Rod_Cole | May 31, 2000 04:55pm | #3

   *Put a drop of alcohol on it and if it softens, it is shellac. If not shellac, put a drop of lacquer thinner on it and if it softens, it is lacquer. If not shellac or lacquer, it is varnish (could be other things if newer, but I doubt it for your chair). Most any stripper will strip old finishes. But, if shellac you may want to just scrub down with 2/3 alcohol (denatured) and 1/3 lacquer thinner, and if lacquer make that 2/3 lacquer thinner and 1/3 alcohol.You should be able to just give it a sanding, then primer, then paint. I would not use latex as my experience is that it will not hold up or look as good as oil based enamel. Go to a full service paint store and tell them what you are doing and they'll get you the proper primer and paint.Best of luck!- Rod Cole

1. 
   CStanford_ | Jun 01, 2000 06:11pm | #4

   *Linda, if you've decided that the antique has no meaningful value (making removing the finish acceptable) then strip the piece, sand with medium grit sandpaper and paint it if you want a painted chair.Methylene chloride based stripper ought to remove about anything, I think. It can be dangerous to work with on a regular basis. Take the recommended precautions on the can.