I just bought an antique brass bed that is tarnished but has been lacquered.
I want to restore it. Do I strip the lacquer off with stripper and then use brass polish?
Thanks, any advice is appreciated.

 

Yes, that's the best approach

Just remember brass is soft so don't use steel wool and such
Removing the lacquer can be messy-and stinky- so be prepared
I have not found a sure-fire lacquer remover type/brand, I'd try whatever the hardware store recomends
All those old finishes were all different I guess
(Some come off with polish, some...not)
Hmmm...what else.....

I prefer Simichrome paste polish
It's not cheap but you can control the process much better
A little paste for a polish
More for bad tarnish
Goob it on and let it sit for a really bad spot (don't let it dry though)
...A tooth brush is OK for the tight spots

Oh, I'd say resist the temptation to lacquer it again
I don't think any of those rattle can products work well at all
And you'll have to do the whole process over again
...soon

If you use Simichrome to polish, don't sweat it if all the lacquer doesn't come off with the stripper, the Simichrome will actually take the rest off
It's just too messy to use as THE way to remove the finish
...well usually...
I have removed lacquer with just the Simichrome before
You might want to try it in a spot to see if a stripper is needed

If I think of anything else I'll post here
Good Luck with your project!

 

Oh...it is solid brass not a plating right?
Just checking