Removing Paint or Varnish
from Wood
Never use paint remover or
strong chemicals to dissolve paint. They may cause extensive damage to the
finish. Wipe off water-thinned paints with wet cloth. Wipe surface
immediately with dry cloth to prevent water damage to finish. Caution: water
will make shellac finish sticky.
Remove fresh oil-base paint by
rubbing the spot with a cloth saturated in liquid solvent-base wax.
For paint stains that have
dried, cover the spot with boiled linseed oil. Let stand until softened;
then remove with a cloth dampened with boiled linseed oil. If any paint
remains, remove with rottenstone and oil, using the same procedure as
prescribed for alcohol stains; or gently scrape off paint with stiff
cardboard, a plastic bowl scraper, or a fingernail.