Dab a little denatured alcohol or lacquer thinner on one section of the wood finish. Try to find an inconspicuous spot. [5] X Expert Source William & Shannon LatilFurniture Refinishing & Home Remodeling Specialists Expert Interview. 29 October 2021. If it is shellac finish, it will liquefy and dissolve. [6] X Research source You know it’s a lacquer finish if the test spot turns a little white in color. [7] X Expert Source William & Shannon LatilFurniture Refinishing & Home Remodeling Specialists Expert Interview. 29 October 2021. A result of softening without dissolving suggests there is shellac present but that it has been mixed with lacquer as well. Any other response and you’re probably looking at a different wood finish. If in doubt, talk to someone familiar with furniture restoration.
Sprinkle a mild abrasive compound over the surface. For example, pumice or rotten-stone. Work this in. Rub off with a cloth.
This part does require some effort and hard rubbing. You may need to take breaks and come back to it, depending on the size of the job. Getting others to help is always a good solution!
