zaro

How to Remove Varnish From a Table Top?

Published in Furniture Refinishing 4 mins read

Removing varnish from a table top can refresh its look and prepare it for a new finish. Based on the information provided, you have two primary methods to achieve this: chemically remove it with paint & varnish stripper or abraid it off with sandpaper and a scraper.

Methods for Varnish Removal

Choosing the right method depends on factors like the type of varnish, the age of the piece, the wood type, and your personal preference regarding effort and safety. Both chemical and abrasive methods are effective but require care.

Chemical Stripping

This method involves using a specialized product to dissolve or lift the varnish layer, allowing it to be scraped away.

  • Process Overview: Apply the chemical stripper liberally over the varnished surface according to product instructions. Allow it to work for the recommended time, which softens or bubbles the varnish. Then, use a scraper to remove the loosened finish.
  • Tools & Materials:
    • Paint and varnish stripper (check for suitability with your table's material)
    • Chemical-resistant gloves
    • Safety glasses
    • Old brushes or applicators for the stripper
    • Scrapers (putty knives, pull scrapers, or specialized varnish scrapers)
    • Steel wool or abrasive pads for curved areas
    • Containers for waste material
    • Drop cloths or plastic sheeting
    • Adequate ventilation (work outdoors or in a well-ventilated area)
  • Practical Tips:
    • Always test the stripper on an inconspicuous area first.
    • Work in small sections to prevent the stripper from drying out.
    • Scrape with the wood grain where possible to avoid scratching.
    • Dispose of chemical waste properly.
    • Neutralize the surface afterward if required by the stripper product.

Abrasive Removal (Sanding and Scraping)

This method physically removes the varnish by wearing it away using abrasives and sharp tools.

  • Process Overview: Start with coarse-grit sandpaper or a scraper to remove the bulk of the varnish. Progress through finer grits of sandpaper to smooth the surface and remove any remaining finish residue or scraper marks, preparing the wood for refinishing.
  • Tools & Materials:
    • Sandpaper (various grits, e.g., 60-grit, 80-grit, 120-grit, 150-grit)
    • Scraper (handheld cabinet scraper, paint scraper)
    • Sanding block or random orbital sander
    • Safety mask/respirator
    • Safety glasses
    • Gloves
    • Shop vacuum or tack cloth for dust removal
  • Practical Tips:
    • Using a scraper can be faster for initial removal of thick varnish layers than sanding alone.
    • Always sand with the wood grain to avoid noticeable scratches.
    • Start with the lowest grit necessary to remove the finish and gradually move to finer grits for smoothing.
    • Be careful not to oversand or create uneven spots, especially with power sanders.
    • Corners and edges may require hand sanding.

Comparing the Methods

Here's a quick comparison of the two main approaches:

Feature Chemical Stripping Abrasive Removal (Sanding/Scraping)
Primary Action Dissolves/Lifts finish Physically wears away finish
Speed Can be faster for thick or complex finishes Can be labor-intensive, especially by hand
Effort Less physical scraping needed after stripper Requires significant physical sanding/scraping
Mess Type Wet, gooey residue, chemical fumes Fine dust
Tooling Stripper, scrapers, brushes, safety gear Sandpaper, scrapers, sanders, safety gear
Wood Impact Less risk of altering wood shape if done correctly Risk of altering wood profile or creating gouges if not careful
Safety Requires handling hazardous chemicals Requires managing dust and potential strain

Choosing the Right Method

Consider the following when deciding:

  • Table Design: Intricate carvings or details are often easier to strip chemically. Flat surfaces are well-suited to sanding.
  • Varnish Type/Thickness: Very thick or stubborn varnishes might benefit from chemical stripping first, followed by light sanding.
  • Work Environment: If you lack ventilation, chemical stripping is risky. Sanding creates a lot of dust, requiring dust control.
  • Personal Preference: Some people prefer avoiding chemicals, while others dislike the physical labor and dust of sanding.

In many cases, a combination of both methods might be the most efficient approach – for example, using a scraper to remove loosened varnish after stripping, or using a scraper for the bulk removal followed by sanding.

Remember to always prioritize safety by wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) regardless of the method you choose.