How to Use Steel Wool in Refinishing Antique Wood Veneer

Setting Up

• Always work with solvents in a well-ventilated area. Wear old clothes and cover any surfaces that you want to protect from splatter. Wear a face mask, safety glasses and gloves when sanding or using chemicals. Assemble your tools. You will need finish remover, wide bristle or foam brushes, a putty knife, steel wool, paint stripper, paint thinner, a sander, stain, clear coat, soft cloths and a finishing wax. Keep a container of water handy to rinse the brushes and tools after use.

Strip the Wood

• Apply an even coat of finish remover to the veneer and let it sit. When the finish starts to soften and bubble, scrape the liquified finish with a putty knife to remove it. Scrape in the direction of the grain, and don't press into the wood -- you don't want to leave gouges or marks. Brush on a layer of paint stripper and let it sit a few minutes. Brush away excess finish paste with fine steel wool in the direction of the grain. Dip steel wool in paint thinner to wash away any leftover residue.

Touch Up the Surface

• Sand the surface of the veneer. Wear a face mask and safety glasses to avoid getting grit in your eyes, nose or mouth. Sand with the grain. Don't press too hard because veneer is a thin layer of wood and you don't want to sand through the entire layer. Wipe away the grit as you work, and sand until the wood veneer feels smooth. Smooth out any small dents or gouges that you come across while working. Wipe off the surface with a cloth when you finish sanding.

Apply a New Finish

• Brush on a new stain. Use a stain that matches the existing wood for the best results. Keep brush strokes flowing in the direction of the grain. Wipe any excess stain with a rag, and allow the stain to dry for 24 hours. Brush on the clear coat with the grain and allow it to dry. Apply two to three coats, lightly sanding and wiping the veneer between each coat. Use a fine steel wool to rub on the finishing wax. Coat the entire surface, then buff the surface with a soft cloth.