Refinishing my Entertainment Center

I have decided to refinish an older entertainment center I have had for a while. It is entirely made of wood. The front "Facia" is solid Oak and the sides and shelving are a heavy "bonded" or laminated oak panels. I dismantled it as far as I could and have started sanding it with a heavy grit sand paper. It seems to be working fine, however it is approx. 6 1/2 feet tall and 5 feet wide. After about 2 hours of sanding I realized I am going nowhere fast. That's when I decided to come and ask here. Do you have any ideas on how to make this a little faster?
I should alo mention that the finish I am trying to remove is a clear cloat.

 

Myfrstfinshjob

Thats quiet a job, I think I would have started on something a little smaller for practice, but since you started...What is it exactly you are wanting to do, take it down to bare wood and re-stain and finish, you like the color but want a new clearcoat. Post more details and there are people to help, but you also need to do some research yourself, find "how-to's" at your hardware and paint stores, a good place to start would be right here on DIY, http://doityourself.com/woodfinish/index.htm

I would read all that pertains then go back for refference and ask here for help, tips and tricks.

 

I would not recommend chemicals to finish your entertainment center. They're messy and toxic! I did all my kitchen cabinets last winter using a product called the Miracle Eraser. It was fast & easy and the results were wonderful. If you want to know more go to their website www.miracleeraser.com

 

Miracle Eraser is basically just a sanding block, so you're still sanding away. Breathing silica particles and old finish/wood dust can have its hazards, too. Chipfo is right, educate yourself first, it won't take long or much effort. Then you can decide what is right for you.

 

I would suggest you use the PEEL AWAY 7 product for your prject. It will easily take the coating off and keep the natural color of the wood. Yiou can then make your own decision as to how you want to refinish the piece.

 

Pete, you are incorrect on several points. Miracle Eraser is not "just a sanding block" While they come in block form, they are extremely lightweight and very abrasive, unlike any other product on the market. It doesn’t require the heavy pressure as with sandpaper - so not as much effort is needed. Some of our favorite customers are older and arthritic. They have no problem with Miracle Eraser.

Yes, the stripping results are similar to sanding (using many different grits)- it is effective in removing paint, varnish, lacquer and even stain because it gets into the top most surface of the wood. Unlike a typical sanding block, it will conform to virtually any shape, making it good curved, rounded and grooved surfaces, as well as large flat surfaces.

You are dead wrong implying that someone will "Breath silica particles". There is a competitive product similar in claims but not performance, that contains crystalline silica a known carcinogen. Miracle Eraser does NOT contain anything harmful - they are nontoxic, completely safe for both you and the environment. And unlike with most chemical strippers, the stripped residue can easily and safely disposed of in normal household trash.

While they are not perfect (we haven't found a perfect stripper yet) and they cannot strip every possible surface or finish, Miracle Eraser solves most typical stripping concerns (effectiveness, safety, health, ease of use, environmentally friendly) and enable many people to “do it themselves” on furniture, molding and kitchen cabinets, to name just a few projects.

I suggest you check out our product.

 

As most regular readers are aware, I don't allow 'unpaid advertising' within this forum. Mr. Haynes reply to previous remarks will be left in place as a rebuttal. Honest discussion is encouraged here, and it's a rare day when I don't learn something new.

I have not tried either Peel Away or Miracle Eraser. I, like the rest of you just have to inform myself as best I can and then make my decision based on my needs and preferences.