How to Refinish Maple Chairs

Refinishing maple chairs is not difficult once you remove the old finish. Chemical strippers have made the task of preparing the wood easier; however, it is a messy job. Prior to starting the task, purchase or gather all the tools you will need to accomplish each step. Enjoy the transformation process as you uncover a new household treasure.

Things You'll Need

• Chemical stripper
• Lacquer thinner
• Denatured alcohol
• Rags
• Brushes
• 120-grit sandpaper
• 220-grit sandpaper
• Putty knife
• Pigmented grain filler
• Sanding sealer
• Oil-based stain
• Polyurethane sealer

Instructions

1. Remove the old finish using a chemical stripper. Apply the stripper to a hidden area on the chair to test the product. Leave the stripper on the area for three to five minutes, until the finish starts to bubble. Test a small area by using a putty knife to scrape the wood. If the finish scrapes off, continue in the remaining area. Do not allow the stripping chemical to dry.

2. Mix lacquer thinner and denatured alcohol in a one to one ratio. Apply the mixture to the wood and gently scrub using steel wool. This mixture will remove stripper residue and the remains of the old finish. Have rags available as this process may get messy. Allow the wood to dry and follow up by sanding areas that still have residue from the old finish with 120-grit sandpaper. Smooth the entire chair with 220-grit sandpaper.

3. Fill open areas in the wood with a pigmented-grain filler in a color that complements the natural wood. Allow the filler to dry completely. Lightly sand to smooth the area.

4. Prime the wood by applying a sanding sealer to prevent uneven absorption of the stain. Let the sealer dry and lightly sand with 220-grit sandpaper.

5. Apply an oil-based stain to the chair. Do this in a well ventilated area as the stain has a strong odor. Apply more stain for a darker color. Test a hidden area prior to staining the entire chair to verify that the color is correct.

6. Apply a polyurethane finish to the chair to seal the stain using long strokes for an even look. Apply at least two coats, sanding the finish with 220-grit sandpaper between each coat.

Tips & Warnings

• Refinish chairs in areas with proper lighting and ventilation as there will be dust and fumes present. Water-based strippers and stains will cause the wood grain to swell. Using these products requires additional sanding. Wear old clothes, gloves and eye protection while using chemicals and stain.

• Oil-based chemicals and stains are flammable. Take extra safety precautions in using and disposing of them.

References

• Refinishing Furniture
• Furniture Refinishing
• Chemically Stripping Wood Tutorial