How to Refinish a Wood Bookcase

Lay down a drop cloth and select an area of the house where you are not worried about dirt or valuables being damaged. The garage or a work shed is ideal.

Apply varnish remover as per the manufacturer's instructions. Different brands and types of removers will have their own guidelines and wait times, so read carefully. Use a paintbrush to apply the remover in a thick and uniform layer. Work the brush in the same direction and try to repeat the same motion for the best results. When you see the surface of the bookcase begin to bubble and separate, it is time to scrape away the old varnish.

Use an old putty knife to scrape along the surface of the bookcase removing the old varnish and the varnish remover. Use number 3 steel wool to remove the remaining varnish by tearing off small pieces of the steel wool and rubbing the surface with them. Remember to cycle out dirty pieces for new ones regularly. Dip your clean rag in lacquer thinner and rub the entire surface of the bookcase to remove any remaining debris or varnish remover.

Inspect your bookcase for damage or weakness in the joints and shelf brackets. Make any necessary repairs before moving on.

Clean the entire surface of the bookcase with a clean rag and turpentine, followed by a wipe-down with tack cloth. Apply linseed oil to the exposed end cut portions of the bookcase using a clean rag. This will slow the process of the stain and prevent these areas from appearing darker than the rest of the piece.

Use a clean paintbrush to apply a single coat of stain to the entire bookcase surface. Allow the stain to set until it reaches the desired color shade, then remove it with a lint-free cloth. Let the stain dry completely according to the manufacturer's specifications. Repeat the process if the bookcase is still too light in color.

Mix 2 pounds of water-white shellac with denatured alcohol in a one-to-one blend. Brush the mixture onto your bookcase with a clean paintbrush, and remember to apply it with the grain. Allow the shellac mixture to dry for half an hour, and then sand down any errors or imperfections with 220-grit sandpaper. Wipe the entire surface with a tack cloth, and apply a second coat. Repeat this process up to five times or until a satisfactory finish has been attained. Allow the surface to dry for about two days.

Apply furniture wax in paste form once the bookcase has completely dried. Follow the manufacturer' s instructions for proper use.