How to Redo an Antique Sewing Machine Cabinet

Your antique sewing machine cabinet may be a collector's piece.

Antique sewing machine cabinets, like all antiques, vary in value based on their condition and their rarity. Any time you decide to redo an antique, take special care that you are not reducing the value of the piece. It is always wise to consult an antique dealer before removing the old finish. You may be doing more harm than good. Once you decide to move forward, work slowly and with great care. Attempt to restore the piece to its original luster.

Things You'll Need

• Gloves
• Mask
• Tarp
• Chemical paint stripper
• Paint scraper
• Dish washing soap
• Bucket
• Water
• Sandpaper
• Stain
• Rags
• Paste wax

Instructions

1. Wear a mask and gloves to protect your lungs and skin from harsh chemicals in the paint stripper. The Consumer Product Safety Commission strongly cautions that anyone handling chemical paint stripper should wear protective gear.

2. Apply a half-inch coat of paint stripper to the cabinet. Let the chemical penetrate the layer of varnish for 20 minutes. Allow it to sit on the surface for 10 more minutes if the paint is not yet softened.

3. Hold a paint scraper at arm's length away from your body and pull it toward you. The varnish will come off the cabinet in stripes. Remove as much varnish as you can with the scraper.

4. Pour paint stripper directly onto a piece of 0000 steel wool. Gently rub the cabinet to remove any remaining varnish.

5. Wash the cabinet with a mixture of two tablespoons dish washing soap and warm water. Rinse with clean water. Dry with a soft towel.

6. Sand the furniture with fine grit sandpaper. Sand until the surface is smooth to the touch. Wipe away any sanding dust with a tack cloth.

7. Apply stain to the cabinet with a soft rag. Wipe away the excess stain with a separate, clean rag. Let the stain dry and apply additional coats until you like the color. Let the stain dry overnight.

8. Put paste wax on a clean cloth. Rub the paste wax into the furniture to protect the finish.

Tips & Warnings

• To preserve the appearance of the cabinet, do some research to understand the age of your cabinet and the nature of the original finish. Choose a stain or product that most closely matches the original finish.

References

• Collectors Weekly: An Interview With Sewing Machine Collector Harry Berzack
• Wood Answers: Refinish a Dresser