If you ever get the notion to buy a dresser that's not quite the right color, thinking you'll just strip it and stain it yourself to match your bedroom furniture rather than buying the dresser that already matches but is $60 more, PLEASE call me. I'll try to talk you out of it, but if I can't do that, I'll at least give you a comprehensive list of things NOT to do. The first thing on that list would be this: don't stain the dresser outside and then leave it outside, uncovered, overnight. For it will surely rain, and you will be ruined.
I am now on Day #4 of this little project. And no end in sight.
So, what else can I do but take my nieces and nephew to the water park today. I need to get out of our new house, as much as I love it. Must escape the chaos for a few hours!!
7.10.2008
Stop. Collaborate and Listen.
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7 comments:
Well, since I really know nothing of this move, where your house is, did you buy it?, etc. would love to see some pics! The projects have just begun! Enjoy! I'm excited for you.
AJ
I did not think stripping the dresser was the best idea when I saw that it was partially constructed of a veneer. I hated to be the one to break that news to your husband, too. If it works, though, I will be impressed!
well this is good to know..i was considering doing this to some furniture that we already have rather than buy some new...any other advice you can offer?
Well, I do condone doing it to existing furniture rather than buying new. So... here goes.
First you have to SAND the existing stain from the furniture. There is no stripping agent out there that will help you much in this endeavor (unless your wood is painted, then the stripper is your best friend). If you can borrow a power sander for this, all the better. Otherwise, get ready for a major workout.
Next, clean the wood really really well. Make sure all the dusty bits are gone from all the nooks and crannies.
Now you are ready to stain. Make sure you have some plastic or cardboard or something under your furniture. Use a water-based wood stain if you are short on time. Oil-based stains take FOREVER to dry, even though I think the results are worth it. Test a little sample area with your stain to make sure it's the color you want. We used sponge brushes to apply the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then used a very fine, soft cloth to wipe off the excess stain. Be careful about drip marks on vertical surfaces. Make sure the stain is nice and even. Keep reapplying the stain until you're happy with the color. Then just make sure it is completely dry before you handle it, or there will be fingerprints all over it.
Lastly, as Joey mentioned, if there are ANY veneer surfaces on your furniture, be VERY careful with the sanding. It's really really easy to sand veneer down to the bone.
If you are working with particle board, forget the whole thing. Paint it or buy new furniture.
Oh, and always apply in the direction of the natural wood grain. Don't use a circular motion.
AND, if you use a wood cleaner between sanding and staining, make sure to wipe it all down in the end really well with just water. If there is any cleaner or goop anywhere on the wood, the stain won't penetrate. And always make sure the wood is 100% dry before you stain it.
It's such a process.
wow..thanks, Laura.
Wish I would have been in town, I could have helped you out with a few pointers. But i'm sure it was way more fun learning about this process on your own. After all, I did! You will be a pro after the 2nd piece. Ha Ha!!
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