eBay Green Team

Step 1: Prepare the Piece & Surrounding Area

I removed the doors and hardware. Laying down a drop cloth, I cleared a surface to prepare to strip the original stain.

Step 2: Strip the Original Stain

Using an eco-friendly stripper, I applied the material with a paint brush, let it sit for a few minutes, and then gently scraped off the stripper with a flat-edge scraper (sometimes called a putty knife).

Step 3: Sanding the Wood

After the wood was completely dry, it was time for a little good old fashioned elbow grease. I sanded the entire piece to achieve an even surface and to take off the last remnants of the previous stain.

Step 4: The First Coat of Stain

First, I wiped off the entire piece with a dry rag to make sure that the surface was free of any particles that might get under the stain and create blemishes. I applied the stain (a non-toxic, soy-based product) with a sponge roller and then wiped off the excess with another rag.

Step 5: The Second Coat of Stain

After 24 hours I applied the second coat of stain, but this time with a brush, using full, even strokes - you want to make sure that you don't leave any streaks or splotches.

Step 6: Reviving the Brass Hardware

Using fine grit sandpaper (220), I was able to sand off all the tarnish to leave a sleek, brushed-metal look. This method is less toxic than using a chemical polisher and I love the textured effect.

Step 7: The Final Gloss Coat

After another 24 hours, I brushed on a low-VOC, water-based lacquer - again, make sure to use full, even strokes so that you don't have any inconsistencies.

Step 8: Reassemble & Admire the Job!

Once everything was dry I attached the original hardware back on and voila! Instant upgrade.

For the full step-by-step guide, click here