Stripping paint advice

[Dani5]

  I am wanting to clean up and repaint this old drawing table. The brown is the original paint and the white ( I’m sure is lead based) was painted straight over the top many, many years ago. What is the best way to strip/ remove the paint so I can start all over again? Thanks

[Jewelleryrescue]

Hi @Dani5 

Nice dresser with Queen Anne legs.

If you suspect lead work with your furniture on a drop sheet in a garage ideally so the dust is contained. Beware of your dusty clothes wash them separate to regular loads,

Use a detailing sander with vacuum cleaner or dust bag attachment to pick up the dust fast etc Do use high quality well-fitting face mask no project worth your health, Buy extra sanding pads for your detailing sander you will use them up fast, as the paint build up is thick, A universal paint scraper will help a lot here into tight spots and detailed work.

A paint stripper gel will help take the hard work of hard-to-reach places you will still need to scrap and clean but not as hard.

So, you will save a lot of elbow grease using a fine detail sander around the legs and into the tight corners. keep your uses sanding pads as you will need to hand sand where the detail sander can't reach,

A rewarding job once complete.

Now if you look add Stencilling to your new painted dresser will look like a million dollars.  Follow this link 

Hope this all helps.:)

[MitchellMc]

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @Dani5. It's terrific to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about removing paint.

When dealing with lead-based paint, safety is paramount. Avoid sanding as it creates harmful dust, and instead use chemical paint strippers to remove the paint safely. Start by preparing the workspace with drop cloths or plastic sheeting to catch debris, and ensure you’re working in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors. Wear appropriate PPE, including a respirator rated for lead, chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and old clothing that can be discarded if contaminated.

Apply a chemical paint stripper suitable for lead-based paint, such as those containing methylene chloride or safer non-toxic alternatives, following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Allow the stripper to soften the paint, then gently scrape it off using a plastic scraper to protect the wood. Multiple applications may be necessary for thicker layers of paint. Collect all scrapings and residue, and dispose of them as hazardous waste according to local regulations.

After stripping, clean the wood thoroughly with a solution of water and vinegar or a recommended neutralizing agent to remove any chemical residue. Allow the surface to dry completely. If necessary, lightly sand the wood to prepare it for repainting or finishing, ensuring all lead-based paint has been completely removed beforehand.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell