How to Remove Stuck Shelf Paper

Good idea, getting rid of the old shelf paper that harks back to Granny's era. It's just too bad half of it wants to stay put for another half-century. Don't give in--all you need is a putty knife, sandpaper and some patience.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Plastic Scrubber
• Soap
• Soap
• Rag Or Paper Towel
• Putty Knife
• 120-grit Sandpaper
• Putty Knife

1. Peel off as much of the stuck paper as you can.

2. Carefully scrape the remainder with a putty knife, holding it at an angle so you avoid gouging the wood.

3. When you've scraped up all you can, rub medium-coarse (120- grit) sandpaper over the remaining gunk.

4. Continue until all traces of the paper are removed.

5. Using a damp rag or a paper towel, wipe up the paper shreds and glue gunk. If some of the glue proves to be tenacious, use hot soapy water and a plastic scrubber.

6. Allow the shelf to dry thoroughly before you refinish it or apply new covering.

Tips & Warnings

• Try to remove as much as you can with the putty knife before sanding the paper. Sanding can be more time-consuming and labor-intensive.

on 11/22/2005 Use any of the new citrus label removers. My favorite is Goo-gone. Simply raise any of the lose portions of shelf paper. Sguirt or spread the Goo-gone and let it sit a few minutes. Raise the areas that have become unglued and continue.
If you encounter any really stuck areas take a pin and perforate the shelf paper with little pricks to let the Goo-gone get underneath.
The remaining glue residue on the shelf will come off with a paper towel and a bit more of the citrus cleaner.

on 11/22/2005 If you are removing a shelf liner that is old, brittle, and peeling off in tiny pieces - heat up the surface with a hair dryer. It will come off in much larger pieces and save a ton of time, not to mention your fingernails.