Dresser?

Hi Peggy,

You should be able to find paint stripper at the hardware store. One we have in Canada is called "Circa 1850" and workers quite well. You could also go the sanding route but that is much more labour intensive. Just make sure the piece is actually wood and you should be fine. Good luck.

BTW I have spent 20 years in the industry and have done it myself.

Ask at your local hardware store what they recommend. They should know what works best for removing layers of paint.

I always use Citristrip to strip away paint.

Citristrip is a good way to begin, here is an article to help you get started: https://www.thisoldhouse.com/woodworking/21018208/how-to-strip-paint-from-wood

here is some info for you

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X1j7N4WPJTg

https://atcharlotteshouse.com/how-to-strip-paint-from-wood-furniture/

Hello. With multiple paint layers and challenging surfaces a chemical stripper might be suggested. Here’s a link for you to consider. I know I’ve seen this product on Amazon with over 2000 positive reviews it may be one worth looking into.

https://simplyrefinished.com/how-to-strip-furniture-easily-using-citristrip/

Citristrip is my go to stripper.

Since you are a first timer, I would use a mild stripping product like Citristrip. My biggest warning is to make sure you scrape and remove before it begins to dry. It is nearly impossible to remove at that point.

Four coats will take a few applications. You brush it on and then scrape it off. I also recommend using a plastic scraper so you won't gouge the wood.

Once you have the paint removed, you can clean it up (TSP) and sand with fine grit sand paper. Then wipe up residue with denatured alcohol.

Sand it off or scrape it with paint thinner

The best way is to sand it.

I'd use Citri-Strip before sanding. You can apply it and place a layer of plastic wrap or plastic bags to keep it moist so it works on the paint for a longer period of time before drying out. A very messy job! Then scrape as much of the "goo" away and wash well. Then to get the rest of the paint off, you may need to sand the piece as well.