To remove varnish from a chest of drawers, you will need a few simple tools and a bit of elbow grease. One of the most effective methods is to use a chemical stripper.

Start by applying the stripper to the varnished surface, following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Allow the stipper to sit for the recommended amount of time, then use a scraper to gently remove the softened varnish.

After scraping off as much varnish as possible, use fine steel wool or sandpaper to smooth out any remaining traces. Wipe down the surface with a clean cloth to remove any residue.

Repeat the process if necessary, until the chest of drawers is completely free of varnish. Once you’re satisfied with the result, you can refinish the wood with paint or stain for a fresh new look.

Gather Necessary Supplies

To successfully remove varnish from your chest of drawers, you will need the following supplies:

• Protective gloves
• Safety goggles
• Painter’s tape
• Masking paper or plastic sheets
• Chemical varnish stripper
• Scrapers or putty knives
• Steel wool or sandpaper
• Clean rags
• Mineral spirits
• Wood stain or paint (optional)

Make sure to gather all these supplies before starting the varnish removal process to ensure a smooth and efficient operation.

Prepare the Work Area

Before you begin removing varnish from your chest of drawers, it is essential to properly prepare your work area. Follow these steps for a smooth and efficient process:

Gather Materials

Collect all the necessary materials you will need for the project, including protective gloves, safety goggles, a respirator mask, sandpaper, paint scraper, a drop cloth, and any varnish remover or stripping solution.

Cover and Protect Surfaces

Lay down a drop cloth or old newspapers to protect the floor and surrounding area from spills and drips. Make sure to cover any nearby furniture or surfaces that could accidentally get splattered with varnish remover.

Materials:	protective gloves, safety goggles, respirator mask, sandpaper, paint scraper, drop cloth, varnish remover or stripping solution
Surfaces to cover:	floor, nearby furniture, surrounding area

By taking these simple steps to prepare your work area, you will create a safe and organized space to effectively remove varnish from your chest of drawers.

Remove Hardware and Drawers

Start by removing all the hardware from the chest of drawers, such as knobs, handles, and hinges. Use a screwdriver or a drill to carefully unscrew and remove them. Place the hardware in a safe place to avoid losing any pieces.

Next, gently pull out each drawer one by one. Make sure to empty the contents of the drawers before removing them. Set the drawers aside in a clean and safe area where they won’t get damaged during the varnish removal process.

Removing the hardware and drawers will make it easier to work on the chest of drawers and ensure a more thorough varnish removal process. Keep the pieces organized and easily accessible for when you’re ready to reassemble the chest of drawers after refinishing.

Apply Varnish Remover

Start by applying a generous amount of varnish remover to the surface of the chest of drawers. Use a paintbrush or a rag to spread the remover evenly over the varnished areas.

Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, as different varnish removers may have different application methods and waiting times. Allow the remover to sit for the recommended amount of time to effectively penetrate and loosen the varnish.

Let the Remover Sit

After applying the varnish remover to the chest of drawers, allow it to sit for the recommended amount of time as specified on the product label. This will give the remover enough time to penetrate the layers of varnish and soften it for easy removal.

Depending on the type and thickness of the varnish, you may need to let the remover sit for anywhere from 15 minutes to a few hours. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully to achieve the best results.

Scrape Off the Varnish

Start by using a scraper to gently remove the varnish from the surface of the chest of drawers. Make sure to work in the direction of the wood grain to avoid damaging the wood.

Apply even pressure as you scrape off the varnish, being careful not to press too hard and gouge the wood. Take your time and work methodically to ensure you remove all the varnish from the chest of drawers.

Once you have scraped off the varnish, use a sanding block to smooth out any rough patches and prepare the surface for refinishing. Sand in the direction of the wood grain to maintain the integrity of the wood.

After sanding, wipe down the chest of drawers with a tack cloth to remove any dust or debris. You are now ready to apply a new finish to restore the beauty of the wood.

Sand the Surface

After stripping off the varnish, the next step is to sand the surface of the chest of drawers. Use a medium-grit sandpaper to gently sand the entire surface, following the grain of the wood.

Make sure to sand evenly and avoid pressing too hard, as you don’t want to damage the wood. Sanding the surface will help to smooth out any rough spots left behind from the varnish removal process and prepare the wood for refinishing.

Clean the Chest of Drawers

Start by removing any dust and debris from the chest of drawers using a soft cloth or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment.

Use a Mild Cleaning Solution

Next, mix a mild cleaning solution of warm water and a gentle dish soap. Dampen a clean cloth in the solution and wring out any excess liquid.

1.	Wipe down the chest of drawers, paying special attention to any areas with built-up grime or stains.
2.	Rinse the cloth in clean water and go over the chest of drawers again to remove any soap residue.
3.	Dry the chest of drawers thoroughly with a clean, dry cloth.

For stubborn stains, you can try using a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water or a commercial wood cleaner. Always test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the finish.

Finally, consider applying furniture polish or wax to protect and restore the wood’s natural shine. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.

Apply New Finish

To apply a new finish to your chest of drawers, start by sanding the surface with fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out any imperfections. Make sure to wipe away any dust with a clean cloth before proceeding. Next, choose a new varnish or paint that suits your desired look and apply it evenly with a brush or rag, following the manufacturer’s instructions for drying times and application techniques. Allow the finish to dry completely before adding additional coats for a more durable result. Finally, consider adding a clear topcoat to protect the finish and give it a polished appearance. Remember to allow each layer to dry fully before moving on to the next step. With these simple steps, your chest of drawers will have a fresh, new finish that enhances its beauty and longevity.

Reassemble the Chest of Drawers

After the varnish has been successfully removed from your chest of drawers, it’s time to reassemble it. Begin by carefully inspecting all the parts to ensure they are clean and free of any residue. Make sure to also check for any loose or damaged components that may need to be repaired or replaced.

Next, follow the manufacturer’s instructions or your own notes to put the chest of drawers back together. Start by assembling the frame and then add the drawers in the correct order. Make sure to secure all the screws and fittings tightly to prevent the drawers from coming loose.