The Stripping and Refinishing  Process

 

 

 (Click on photos to enlarge)

When a piece is brought in for refinishing, the first step is to do what ever repairs might need to be done. This would include tightening, veneer work, replacement parts, etc. - basically any gluing that might need to done is done at this time. This table needed no repairs and is ready to hand strip.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Here at the Woodworks we use a very gentle method of hand stripping called a "Flow Over System". With this method, the only thing that actually ever touches the furniture is a soft bristled brush which stripper is being pumped through. We do not drip anything! Also we use a water- based stripper. After the piece is stripped of all finish, it is thoroughly rinsed with water. This cleans deep into the gain and removes most all residual stain, grease or oils and contaminations that might cause the finish to not adhere properly.

 

The next day, after the piece has had time to thoroughly dry, it will be lightly hand sanded and an oil based stain applied - if staining is required. After the stain has had time to dry completely we will then be ready to start applying the lacquer sanding sealer.

 

 

The sanding sealer is then sprayed on and allowed to dry. It is then lightly hand sanded smooth causing the white residue you see in the picture. This residue will disappear  when the next coat is applied. This process is then repeated. 2 coats of sanding sealer - sanded each time is usually all this piece will require, however some pieces may require more to accumulate the appropriate amount of "build".

                     

 

Lastly the finish or "top coat" is applied. Each piece typically gets 2 coats of finish usually in a "stain sheen". This sheen however can be altered to what ever sheen the customer desires. The lacquer finish we use is a very beautiful, durable finish that gives each piece a very high degree of water, ultraviolet and scratch protection.

 

 

The end result:

 

 

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