Refinishing Pine Furniture

[Edward W. Thompson]

I need to refinish a pine desk. The original finish is somewhat worn plus scratches and all the normal wear and tear. I guess the first step is to remove the old finish. First question: what is the 'best' chemical stripper to use?

After stripping and sanding to refinish to a 'golden' pine colour to match the other furniture what stain should I use? From what I have read, there are water based, oil based and coloured finishes. As I understand it, water based stains will raise the grain and require sanding after application. I also understand that pine is not 'easy' to stain evenly so should I use a 'sealer' before staining?

Finally what is the 'best' finishing medium. Lacquer, polyurethane (water based or oil based?)?

If there is a web site that covers this subject I would appreciate an address.

[Anne Jackson]

The message from Edward W. Thompson contains these words:

Personally, I would wax it. A wax-finished piece of pine furniture is much nicer than one that has been stained. JMHO.

[Stuart Noble]

All depends what the original finish is. Modern finishes, like polyurethane, can usually be sanded and re-finished without resorting to strippers

[Clot]

Why chemical stripper. Is it seriously gouged! Elbow grease ( and sandpaper) would be my first thought - as I notice that Stuart is also suggesting.

Snip