Clean and Sand the Furniture

Clean the furniture with TSP to remove as much grease as possible. Then sand with 150-grit sandpaper so the stripping material will adhere well to the wood. Use a tack cloth or damp cloth to remove sanding dust.

Apply the Stripping Agent

Use a paintbrush to apply stripping agent to the furniture as thickly as possible, working in one direction. Leave the stripper on the furniture for the recommended time. Use a putty knife or a nylon stripping pad to remove a test strip. If the paint or varnish doesn't come off easily, apply a second coat of stripper, and leave it on the furniture for the recommended time.

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Remove the Extra Stripper Residue

Remove as much stripper residue as possible with a putty knife or a stripping pad. To remove residue from detailed areas, try using a large old paintbrush with the bristles cut short. Work with a dry brush first so the bristles will be stiff. Then dampen the bristles to remove any remaining residue. To remove stripper from spindles, try using cotton rope.

After removing as much dry stripper residue as possible, use a damp rag to remove the remaining residue. When working with latex/water-based strippers, dampen the rag in water. When using solvent-based strippers, dampen the rag in mineral spirits. Allow the furniture to dry before applying new stain.

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Make any Necessary Repairs

The furniture might need some repairs. If so, keep in mind that the less the piece is repaired, the more value it retains as an antique. Before cutting off rotted wood, make sure to match the pattern. If possible, use the other side of the furniture as a template for cutting replacement pieces.

If replacing drawer or door hardware, look for knobs and hinges that are the same style and age as the furniture.

Assemble replacement pieces, using glue and a pneumatic nailer. If a pneumatic nailer is not available, use a hammer and a nail set: just take care to avoid damaging the wood.

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Add the Distressing Marks

Use a hammer to give new wood the distressed look of antique furniture.

Make a few dents and dings here and there along the edge and the face of the wood. Another way to distress wood is by banging or rolling a rock on it.