How to remove paint from wood grain pores?

[theparlourroom]

I have stripped and sanded back a vintage cedar dresser that was painted white. But there is still paint in the tiny wood “pores”. I don’t want to sand sown below them, as I’ll remove too much of the wood. I was wondering if I should try turps, or could that damage the wood. I’m wanting to stain it, not repaint it. Thanks! 

[EricL]

Hello @theparlourroom

Thank you for sharing your question about removing paint from wood grain pores. 

You may have to try several methods to see which one works best. I recommend trying these methods.

• I suggest using the Ozito 2000W Variable Temperature Heat Gun. It has a variable switch allowing you to control the temperature. It comes with a host of attachments to help you strip paint off furniture. Make sure to keep the heat gun moving and use a stiff brush to try and dislodge the paint in the pores.
• Soak a rag with Diggers Methylated Spirits - 1L. Place the rag on the back leg of the furniture and leave to soak for at least 10 minutes to see if it lifts the paint out of the pores. Cover the rag with a plastic bag to prevent it from evaporating too fast. Use a stiff brush to try and brush the paint out of the pores.
• Use lower grit sandpaper such as the Flexovit 100mm x 1m 180 Grit Painted Surfaces Sandpaper Roll to sand deeper into the timber. Please note that you will have to finish it off with a Flexovit 100mm x 1m 240 Grit Painted Surface Sandpaper Roll or higher grit number to get a smooth finish.

Removing primer, filler, and old paint embedded in the pores is difficult as it has been there for many years. If they prove too hard to remove you might not have a choice but to keep sanding. Don't give up, you've got this! Please keep us updated, we look forward to seeing your dresser restored.

Let me tag our experienced members @JDE and @JoeAzza for their recommendations.

If you need more advice or information, please let us know.

Eric

[JoeAzza]

Hi .@theparlourroom

.@EricL  suggestion should work especially if it was a water based paint you are removing, another suggestion is to try a chemical paint stripper. I know some companies dip parts to be stripped in a solution of caustic, just note this should be done by a professional only.

good luck 

[theparlourroom]

Thank you Eric! I did have a moment when I felt like giving up and just painting it, but I’m determined to press on. I’ll give your ideas a go. I hadn’t thought of a heat gun. Thank you!! 

[theparlourroom]

Thank you 😊 The stripper I’ve been using it water-based, so you’re correct that it may not be strong enough. It’s so toxic as it is that I really don’t want to use anything stronger (and I’m definitely not a professional). If only people didn’t paint beautiful wooden furniture in the first place!!! 

[JoeAzza]

@theparlourroom  You could also try acetone/ nail polish remover, it will soften the paint to be removed, use sparingly and use in a well ventilated area.

[theparlourroom]

Excellent, thanks!