Stripping circa 1900 doors
#1

I purchased several old doors from a Victorian cottage. They have several layers of paint, varnish, lacquer, shellac and once again MORE paint. What is the most effective way to remove this mess? I am aware it is lead paint on the doors. I have also discovered some beautiful faux painting techniques under some of the layers, so I have decided to stop the stripping at that point. What would be the best way to clean and preserve this surface after it has been exposed?
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Rena
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Rena
#2

Rena:
Here you have gone over the fine line between refinishing and restoration. Any good paint and varnish remover will get rid of the layers, but stopping the process at a certain point requires an expertise acquired from years of experience.
In other words, you need to take these doors to a professional restorer. Check with reliable antique dealers in your area, and then check the credentials of those restorers that are suggested. This is a project that doesn't allow for mistakes.
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George T.
Here you have gone over the fine line between refinishing and restoration. Any good paint and varnish remover will get rid of the layers, but stopping the process at a certain point requires an expertise acquired from years of experience.
In other words, you need to take these doors to a professional restorer. Check with reliable antique dealers in your area, and then check the credentials of those restorers that are suggested. This is a project that doesn't allow for mistakes.
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George T.