Need to remove several layers of paint from an old desk?

Question

I have an old, old desk with several layers of paint. It is all wood, although I'm not sure which kind. Is there an easy way to get all these layers off at once? I do not look forward to this job.

Answer 1

http://www.diynetwork.com/diy/pt_stripping/article/0,2037,DIY_14209_2277249,00.html

here's info from an episode on DIYnetwork that may be helpful. i actually find these projects to be really gratifying! my strong recommendation is to be sure you are working in a well ventilated area, you have proper gloves on and you follow all the directions. The paint stripper can really burn your skin if it comes in contact so be aware of that especially when you are removing it.

http://www.refinishfurniture.com/furniture_stripping_basic.htm
there's another site. i use the 'citristrip' stuff, it works well.

enjoy it the best you can!

Answer 2

If the desk has any value at all I'd take it to a furniture refinisher; one with a DIP strip bath in house.

Steven Wolf

There aren't many projects you might tire of as the one you describe.

Answer 3

paint thinner, you can get some from home depot. so what you want to do is apply some on an old cloth and then rub the paint off then use a scraper to scrape the layer off you will have to do it several times, but it will work!

Answer 4

THEY HAVE A PAINT STRIPPER THAT YOU JUST PAINT ON AND IT LIFTS ALL THE OLD STUFF OFF AFTER YOU WIPE IT WITH A OLD RAG....THOUGH THIS STUFF USUALLY LIFTS UP THE GRAIN AS WELL....MOST HARD WARE STORES HAVE IT. THERE ARE ALSO PAINT REMOVER SANDING BLOCKS, BUT THIS TAKES LONGER....GOOD LUCK HERE YA GO http://www.paintpro.net/Articles/PP303/PP303_strippers.cfm

Answer 5

liquid stripper, you put in on like paint and follow the package instructions lots of good products that does the job
www.homedepot.com

Answer 6

chemical stripper. Be prepared for hard messy work