Reply #7: Whether your buffet is solid or veneer should make no

[yy4me]

difference in its worth to you as a nice old piece of furniture but if veneer, the condition of the surface might require that you do some re-glueing. To tell if the piece is solid or veneer, for your own knowledge, check this: Look at the back edge of the top or sides (there should be no finish on the wood here), if it is veneer, you will see a line about 1/16 of an inch along the outside edge of the sides and on the top edge of the top. This will indicate an outside layer of either more figurative or better grade finishing wood. Don't often see maple veneer on 20th century furniture. This will make no difference in the refinishing process unless you use an electric sander and go through the veneer.

If you have a well ventilated area to work, I'd use a chemical stripper, always wear gloves, safety glasses. Also, in scraping, always work in the direction of the grain. Crossing the grain will put scratches on your wood with your scraper and steel wool. In my opinion, I'd not use an electric sander. You may leave sanding marks, especially if you are new at refinishing. Scrape with one of the single edge razor blades in a holder available at a hardware store. Old toothbrushes, steel wool of various grades and old rags at your side.

Always use a solvent to remove any paraffin residue that is always left on surfaces after stripping. This residue will interfere with stain absorption. Use a varnish on the surface. Minwax makes a good poly varnish (3 coats) that is easy to work with. Since this is a buffet, you will want to have a waterproof surface. It is a lot of work but well worth it if you take your time. Be happy to answer any questions, My husband and I have refinished tons of furniture over the years.