Getting rid of varnish from wood can bring back the natural beauty of your furniture and wooden surfaces. Whether you’re dealing with sticky varnish or looking for ways that do not involve sanding, this guide will help you remove varnish effectively.
At Harlow Bros, we like to equip customers with high quality products, and equally reliable guidance. So, let's dive into methods that will help you remove varnish from wood and achieve a more natural look.
How To Strip Varnish From Wood
It’s simple yet effective! Some varnish stripper and a trusty brush is often all that’s needed to apply a solid layer of stripper to the wood.
Here is the step-by-step rundown for how to remove varnish from wood (without sanding!)
- Firstly, pick a varnish remover to use and then spread it evenly across the wood surface.
- Give it some time to set in. After a few minutes, it will break down the varnish. The amount of time may vary so be sure to follow the product instructions.
- Then, use a plastic scraper to lift off the varnish gently and if you’d like, use a mild detergent solution to remove any residue.
If you’re removing old varnish because it has gotten sticky, or patchy, you may want to reapply a new coat once you’re done.
Other Ways to Remove Varnish
Sandpaper
Another effective way to get rid of excess varnish is by simultaneously prepping your timber. Sandpaper is a natural and chemical-free method of removing varnish. However, it can be quite labour-intensive.
When starting, make sure you use different grits, start with coarse sandpaper and gradually move to finer grits to achieve a smooth finish.
Heat Gun
This method requires caution.
A heat gun can soften the varnish, making it easier to scrape off. Hold the heat gun a few inches from the surface and move it back and forth.
When the varnish starts to bubble, use a scraper to remove it. You should stop immediately if it begins to smoke. Be very careful while doing this, as you can burn the wood.
Tips To Make Varnish Removal More Easy
Wondering how to remove varnish from wood easily?
There are a few clever ways to make this process a little more straightforward, such as working in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes.
Even in an open space, wear protective gloves and goggles to protect your skin and eyes.
And do not rush things, test the varnish remover on a small area first to check its effectiveness.
Stock Your Varnish Removal Project With Supplies From Harlow Bros
Whether you use a varnish stripper, sandpaper or a heat gun, the key is to choose the method that best suits your project and preferences.
Removing varnish from wood doesn’t have to be a pain. If you have any questions or need further assistance with your varnish removal, don’t hesitate to contact us. If you’re looking for an alternative varnish for your wood, be sure to check out our range as well.
And if you’re trying to find the perfect match for your newly refreshed surfaces, consider our range of high-quality timber floorboards, offering the ideal finishing touch for your project. We also have other ranges available, such as engineered flooring.