How to Refinish a Mid-Century Brass & Wood Floor Lamp

Spread a layer of old newspapers on your workspace. Tear off pieces of masking tape and wrap the masking tape around any brass pieces on the lamp. The tape peels off without leaving any residue behind and protects the brass surfaces from the wood stripper.

Dip the paintbrush in the wood stripper and paint the liquid onto the wood surfaces of the lamp. Repeat the process until you completely cover all wood surfaces with the stripper. Rinse the paintbrush with fresh water. Clean the wood stripper off the wood with the paintbrush or a scraper.

Sand down the wood areas of the lamp lightly with fine grit sandpaper. Brush off the excess sawdust produced by the wood and dip the paintbrush in the wood stain. Coat the wood with the wood stain and immediately wipe off any excess stain with the paper towels. Add more coats until you reach the color you want.

Peel the masking tape off the brass surfaces, once the wood stain fully dries. Tear off more pieces of masking tape and attach the pieces to any areas of the wood that touch the brass. Rub distilled white vinegar onto the brass surfaces. Wipe off the residue, revealing the clean brass.

Dab brass polish around the brass surfaces, using a soft cloth. Gently rub the polish into the brass in a circular motion. Wipe off any excess polish with the opposite side of the cloth. The brass polish restores the natural shine of the brass. Remove any leftover tape.