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Project DIYSmoke Damage Chest

Smoke Damage ChestGetting Started

In this episode, Chelsea tackles a difficult project. A client brought in a cedar chest that has a lot of smoke damage. See the steps she takes to restore this chest to its former beauty.

LEARN HOW TO:
  • clean smoke and soot damage from cedar
  • Fix damaged and peeling veneer
  • When using power sanding tools, and when to sand by hand
  • The grit range guarantees a beautiful finish

Smoke Damage Chest Supplies

Smoke Damage Chest Step by step

  • STEP: 1

    Start by washing the chest with wood soap.

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  • STEP: 2

    Remove as much smoke as you can.

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  • STEP: 3

    Switch to an extra fine steel wool pad and scrub with denatured alcohol. Lightly scrub the entire chest.

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  • STEP: 4

    Next, move on to sanding, starting with the 180 grit. Hand sand using the sponges on thin veneer.

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  • STEP: 5

    The MicroZip is perfect to sand edges, corners, and small details.

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  • STEP: 6

    Switch to using the random orbit sander on the real wood. Again, use 180 grit to start out.

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  • STEP: 7

    Some veneer may be damaged or peeling. Use wood glue to reapply before sanding.

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  • STEP: 8

    Continue sanding using 220 and 320 grit. Not skipping grits to ensure a great finish. Remember, the more you sand, the better the finish!

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  • STEP: 9

    When you’re done sanding, it’s time to stain!

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  • STEP: 10

    Wipe on stain is super easy and looks great! Cover the entire surface with 2 or 3 coats.

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  • STEP: 11

    Apply a few coats of a spray-on polyurethane.

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  • STEP: 12

    Finally, attach the handles and you’re done!

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