Originally Posted by redbugsullivan
Originally Posted by zelda2
most old finishes that are original and are just lacquer(shellac), can be removed with just lacquer thinner, steel wool and rags. I did an entire buffet in about 3 hours and an entire closed sewing cabinet in about 1 1/2hrs. When removed, just wipe on your favorite finish (I like than wipeable poly satin varnish) and you're done. Much easier than messing with stripper, etc. I used to own a refinishing shop so have used this very often. Good luck!
My husband convinced me to use the same thing with some of our old pieces and it worked amazingly well. Changing the procedure by having 2 coffee cans of lacquer thinner (one for "dirty" rinsing and the other for cleaning) sped up things and used fewer sections of steel wool. Patience is key. We LOVE the wipeable poly satin too. Not period correct but the finish is gorgeous and wears like a dream.
Zelda has a very good technique for refinishing. It is quick and wipe on polystain is great. I have done this on refinishing new pieces and it is a nice looking finish. However, I would never use it on antique or vintage sewing cabinets or anttique furniture. When restoring and if I must refinish I will use historically correct products only. I try to keep the piece as original looking as I can. I always prefer to restore rather than refinish unfortunately refinishing is a must on many sewing cabinets. This is the trade I learned in Europe but this does not make it the only way and I like using the lacquer to refinish when I can. My recomendation has always been to do refinishing the way you like it. My techniques are to help you keep your sewing machine cabinets as original as possible and not degrade the historical value of the Cabinet. It is like my quilting just have fun!! Glenn