How to safely remove after-market finish on antique wooden bowl?
by
Noni
+7
I just found a wonderful large Munising maple bowl but it has at some point had a finish applied to it that I believe was after market. I want a 'raw' wooden bowl to replace the one my grandmother passed along to Mom and then she to me. It 'disappeared' and I finally replaced my butter-making bowl. I have two family paddles for working the churned butter but don't want this finish at all. Sand it? Don't really want to use any chemicals on it.
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This explains more of the pros and cons of different finishes.
FOOD SAFE FINISHES FOR WOODEN BOWLS AND WOOD CUTTING BOARDShttps://www.newhampshirebowlandboard.com/blogs/blog/13612445-food-safe-finishes-for-wooden-bowls-and-wood-cutting-boards
Hi Noni. Your bowl sounds lovely. If you want raw wood, you need to sand it. A palm sander would make the job a lot easier. Begin with 220 grit sandpaper. Then change it to 110 grit and, finally, change it to 80 grit. This process will give you a nice smooth finish. Good luck Noni. I wish you well.
It will depend on what the finish is that was applied. Start with fine steel wool and denatured alcohol. If that doesn't get it off, up the game to sanding.
I would start with sanding it and see if that can get it off. Be prepared for a lot of elbow grease.
Noni
Here is some info for you
https://www.deseret.com/2010/7/18/20128747/martha-stewart-care-for-munising-bowls-with-food-grade-mineral-oil
Hello hand sanding might be considered for the removal of the bowls sealer.
The Munising bowls did have a finish on them that looked like varnish. If you care about the value leave as is. If you don't and want to use them without the finish. Sand the finish off, clean well let dry. Use food grade, vegetable or olive oil to seal. Just wipe on with your hands or a rag. When the bowls starts to lighten. Add another coat of oil. It will seep into the wood and keep it from drying out.
Thanks everyone; I will be removing the finish because it will be a working bowl for me and I'd like to get down to the raw wood just as my former bowl had. There's just something very satisfying about making your own butter and working it with the traditional wooden tools that have been used down through our history eh. Em, I have not before seen a Munishing bowl and was completely unfamiliar with the production methods and process. Thanks for your reply.