How to restore a veneer wooden wardrobe?

Dellydoos

So I bought this lovely Gentlement's Closet/Wardrobe off of Facebook Marketplace and it's very likely 50+ years old. I adore the colour and the beautiful veneer doors, but it's also not looking in too great a shape. There's nicks all over it and scratches in the polish. I'd love to strip off the polish varnish (there's a real shine over the front doors that probably needs redoing?), give it a sand and restain/recoat it so it still has that dark and rich look. Perhaps go a little darker than it is now. 

I have no idea how to get started. I'm a complete novice when it comes to furniture restoration. So would appreicate directions and product reccomendations. 

I'd prefer to strip the polish varnish first as the front doors are a thin wood veneer. Any reccomendations on the product for that? I have an orbital sander which I can use with an 180 & 220 grit sand paper, and then hit it with some hand sanding around the edges. But then I have no idea about staining and sealing. Do I need to condition the wood before I stain and seal? Do I go water-based or gel based for staining?

I also am unsure what timber it is- definetly not pine. Perhaps teak? Unsure if that affects the staining process. 

Looking for reccomendations and instructions on how you'd reccomed tackling this

EricL

Hello @Dellydoos 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us and thanks for sharing your question about your veneer wooden wardrobe.

That’s a beautiful gentlemen’s wardrobe you’ve picked up, full of charm and potential. The rich bookmatched veneer on the doors is definitely worth preserving, and you’re right to approach it carefully as a beginner. Given the age and finish, the surface is likely coated in a shellac or lacquer that has dulled and scratched over time. Because of the delicate veneer, it’s best to avoid aggressive sanding and instead start with a chemical stripper. 

A safe and effective option available at the store is Polystrip Heavy Duty Paint and Varnish Stripper. It has a thick gel consistency that clings to surfaces, making it ideal for vertical or detailed sections. It effectively removes old varnish, lacquer, and polish without running or dripping. Apply it with a brush, allow it to sit for 15–30 minutes, then gently scrape the softened finish with a plastic scraper or steel wool. Afterward, wipe the surface clean with mineral turps and let the piece dry overnight. 

Once dry, you can begin sanding. Use your orbital sander with 180-grit sandpaper on the solid timber parts like the sides and top, but avoid using it on the veneered areas. For the doors and other delicate parts, use 220-grit sandpaper by hand. Be gentle around edges and corners, as these can be easily damaged. After sanding, vacuum all dust and wipe the surface with a tack cloth. A second application may be necessary if the old varnish is too stubborn to come off.

For staining, oil-based stains are ideal for enhancing depth and achieving an even finish. Water-based options dry faster but can raise the grain and highlight imperfections. Cabot’s Oil-Based Stain and Feast Watson Prooftint are both great choices available at Bunnings. If you’re unsure of the wood species or concerned about blotching, apply a conditioner or sanding sealer like Feast Watson 1L Timber Primer beforehand to promote even absorption. Apply the stain with a cloth or brush, let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe off the excess. Let it dry fully and apply a second coat if needed.

Once staining is complete and dry, seal the surface with a protective topcoat. For a subtle sheen and durable finish, go with Cabot’s Cabothane Clear Satin or Feast Watson Clear Varnish. If you want a soft, hand-rubbed look, Gilly’s Cabinet Makers Wax is a good alternative, though it won’t be as durable as varnish. Apply your chosen sealer in thin coats using a synthetic brush or cloth, lightly sanding between coats with 320-grit paper. Two to three coats will give you solid protection.

After curing, which can take several days, you can polish the piece lightly with a soft cloth. Clean or refresh the hardware with Brasso if you’re keeping the original fittings. Avoid placing the piece in direct sunlight to prevent fading. Take your time, test on small areas, and enjoy the process, this is a rewarding project even for a first-time restorer.

Let me call on our experienced members @craftyhopper, @prettyliving, @DanaR, @Claire84, @daniknight4, @lifestylebymari and @LorenaDIYS for their recommendations.  

Here is a link to ideas and inspirations: 15 upcycled buffets

Please remember to wear personal protection such as gloves, goggles and a mask when working on your project.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric