yr-old house, I highly recommend using a Wagner 705 power steamer. You should be able to find a good used model on eBay for under $50 including s/h, & can always sell it when you're finished. The 'paper tiger' is the tool referred to above, but you won't need one with the steamer--unless the paper has been painted & won't allow the steam to penetrate.

harden & seal them. You can probably find the video & information on TOH's website.