How to Remove Varnish from Wood Easily

The best way to refinish or repaint wood is to remove the old varnish and paint first. Varnish adheres much better to bare wood. By stripping the old varnish, you can prepare the wood perfectly for a fresh coat. In this guide, you’ll learn how to remove varnish from wood using various effective methods—such as varnish remover, heat guns, sanding, and paint thinner—along with practical tips to make the process easier.

How to Strip Varnish From Wood

There are many ways to remove varnish from wood. The easiest methods are using varnish removers or paint strippers. They work in a similar way and can remove even small traces of varnish. However, for carved wood surfaces or thick varnish layers, you may need to apply them again. Here’s how to remove varnish from wood using a varnish remover:

• First, buy a high-quality varnish remover or paint stripper.
• Apply it evenly over the varnished wood using a brush.
• Allow some time for the varnish to soften. This usually takes anywhere from a few minutes to half an hour, depending on the product. Follow the instructions on the label for the recommended waiting time.
• Then, gently scrape the varnish off using a metal or plastic scraper.
• Check the surface to see if the varnish has been completely removed. If residue remains, apply another coat of varnish remover.
• Even if you’ve scraped all the varnish off, some remover residue may still remain on the surface. If you plan to re-varnish or paint the wood, make sure to clean off all traces of the varnish remover so it won’t affect the new finish.

Other Ways to Remove Varnish From Wood

Using a varnish remover is the easiest way to strip varnish from wood. However, if you don’t have a remover or paint stripper available, you can try the following methods to get rid of varnish.

1-Heat Gun

Removing varnish with a heat gun requires caution, as some varnishes are flammable. However, with the right amount of heat, you can soften the varnish without burning the wood and then scrape it off.

1. Hold the heat gun a few inches away from the varnished wood and move it back and forth.
2. When the varnish starts to bubble, use a metal scraper to remove it.
3. If smoke appears, it means the wood is getting too hot and starting to burn. Stop immediately and let it cool down.
4. Be very careful when using a heat gun, as too much heat can damage the wood.

2-Sanding

Another effective way to remove varnish is by sanding the surface. With sandpaper, you can remove varnish naturally without using chemicals. Start with coarse sandpaper and then move to finer grits in two or three stages. However, this method requires more effort. To make the job easier, you can use a power sander instead of sandpaper, but be careful — it can damage the wood if not used properly.

3-Lacquer Thinner (Nitrocellulose Thinner)

This type of thinner is used to dilute cellulose-based paints. Lacquer thinner breaks down non-cellulose paints and varnishes as well. If you have some lacquer thinner, you can use it to remove thin layers of varnish from wood. It works similarly to a varnish remover. “You can find more information by reading this: Will thinners remove paint?”

Pour a small amount of lacquer thinner onto the wood surface and let it sit for a few minutes to allow it to penetrate the varnish. Then wipe the wood surface with a cloth. If the varnish is not completely removed, repeat the process.

Lacquer thinner doesn’t leave residue but has a very strong odor. Always wear a mask while working. If it gets on your skin, wash immediately with soap and water.

Additional Tips

• To make this process easier and safer, work in a well-ventilated area or move the wood outdoors.
• Wear protective gloves and goggles to protect your skin and eyes from dust and fumes.
• Don’t rush. Test the varnish remover on a small area first to see how it reacts.
• Whether you use a varnish remover, sandpaper, a heat gun, or lacquer thinner, the important thing is to choose the method that best fits your project and preferences.

If you have any questions about removing varnish from wood or need more help, feel free to contact us in the comments section.