How to Refinish Wood Toy Boxes

If your daughter has outgrown the solid oak toy chest that you painted hot pink 10 years ago, don't toss it, restore it. By stripping the paint and refinishing the piece in your favorite stain, you will not only save money and reduce waste, but you can revitalize a forgotten piece of furniture, repurposing it for more adult use. The same toy chest that once held Barbies and a Teddy Ruxpin can become a keepsake trunk that carries scrap books, family photos and other mementos.

Paintbrush
Stripper
Wood finish
Paint scraper
Gloves
Protective eyewear
Wire brush
Cardboard
Lacquer-thinner

Instructions

- 1
  Prepare your properly ventilated work space outside or in the garage by laying out large amounts of cardboard on the ground. Place the wooden toy box on top of the cardboard and arrange your materials nearby. Put on your gloves and safety goggles.
- 2
  Apply paint stripper to the toy chest using a "natural-bristle" paintbrush if the object is painted. If your toy box is stained, not painted, apply varnish remover. Allow the paint or varnish remover to sit on the toy box for the recommended amount of time.
- 3
  Scrape off the old varnish or paint using a paint scraper or wire-bristle brush. Be careful not to scratch the wood. Continue to apply stripper or lacquer-thinner and scrub with a wire brush and cloth as needed to remove any residual stain or paint that you were unable to remove on your first attempt.
- 4
  Allow the stripped toy box to dry overnight.
- 5
  Apply your choice of stain to the toy box and let dry.

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