The Big Debate: Stripping vs. Sanding

How can you know which to use? Does it make a difference in the overall outcome? What are some key tips to understanding which is best in certain scenarios? Let's talk about it all!

The Pros of Stripping

Stripping is a great method to get rid of thick, tough finishes that are stubborn. It provides a great way to break down old varnish, paint, or other substances that may be on the surface. It works well with veneer because it can be thin, stripping is less abrasive and destructive. When you are trying to preserve the original wood, stripping is a great option to show the original grain and can provide you with a clean canvas to work with. Stripping can be great if you want to throw it on and come back so that you can get other projects or errands done. I would recommend stripping for beginners to experiment with since it can be easy to use and is a great place to start.

The Cons of Stripping

Stripping can be a messy ordeal. The residue can be a pain to clean. Usually after you strip, you still have to sand down some areas to get a properly clean canvas. Stripping materials can also be expensive, depending on the brand and tools you are using.

The Pros of Sanding

Sanding can get the job done, fast. It is useful when you are trying to prep your project in a short amount of time. Sanding can also be cheaper than some stripping materials and it is reusable. Sanding also creates less of a mess if you have a sander that collects sawdust. If you do not, I recommend getting one since it makes the process easier to clean. I like to sand if the material of the furniture is durable and resilient (such as real wood). In this case, sanding is best used because the wood needs that abrasion to go back to it's original finish.

The Cons of Sanding

Sanding can be extremely abrasive and can leave marks in the wood if not used properly. It's also important to note that there is a process to sanding and certain steps that must be taken (I.E. you need to use descending grits so that the wood is preserved). I recommend learning the techniques of sanding and how to use them properly so that there is no damage done to future projects.

Conclusion

Sanding and stripping really depends on the project itself! I love using both and I don't believe that one is better than the other, it merely depends on what you are doing. There are pros and cons to both, but it is also equally important how to best utilize both so that you feel comfortable using them in all situations.