How to Restain a Wooden Piano

Re-staining an old piano can help protect the wood from wear and restores the color and resliliency of the wood.

If you are re-staining any piece of wooden furniture, first you must strip away the old stain and sand the surface before you can apply a new stain and finish it. A piano is a beautiful and valuable instrument, so you might worry about harming its musical capability when you stain it, but the stain will only be applied to the outside of the piano. If you take special care around the corners of the key box, the piano will not be harmed as you beautify its exterior.

Things You'll Need

• Handheld paint stripper
• Chemical paint stripper
• Sandpaper (180 to 220 grit) or sanding machine
• Damp cloths
• Wood stain in the color of your preference
• Glossy or satin finish
• Soft paint brush

Instructions

Removing the Finish

1. Spread the "no cleanup" chemical stripper on the outside of the piano, making sure to cover all areas of the piano's surface you wish to re-stain. Leave the chemical on the surface for the time recommended by the manufacturer. The old finish should then be soft enough to gouge with a putty knife.

2. Use your handheld stripper to remove as much of the original finish as you can.

3. Use your sandpaper or a power sander to get as much of the original finish off as you can so the new stain can soak into the wood.

4. Brush off the excess wood dust with a soft brush and then with damp cloths.

Re-stain the Piano

1. Apply one to two coats of stain to the surface of the wood, allowing to dry for up to six hours between coats. For a smoother finish, allow the first coat to dry and then sand lightly with your sandpaper to even out any inconsistencies. Then apply the second coat of stain, allowing it to dry completely.

2. Apply a thin coat of polyurethane varnish to the re-stained surface with a brush. Let it dry for 24 hours, then apply the second coat. Let it dry completely.

3. Lightly sand the surface to ensure an overall smooth texture. Remove the dust with a damp cloth.

Tips & Warnings

• You can choose satin or glossy finish. Glossy finishes have more shine but tend to show more fingerprints and dirt.

• If you want a color similar to the original, apply stain in a slightly lighter color than the original.

• Wear a respirator when you work with paint and finish chemicals, and work in a well-ventilated area to guard against inhaling harmful chemicals.

References

• Lowe's; How to Refinish Wood Furniture; 2011