When you bring a Hemnes dresser into your home, you are inviting a piece of Swedish craftsmanship defined by its sturdy oak construction and timeless design. However, the very qualities that make this line so beloved—the solid wood and thick veneers—also mean it ages with a distinct history. Refinishing Hemnes is not merely a cosmetic update; it is a careful restoration process that respects the integrity of the wood while preparing the surface for a new chapter. This guide walks you through the nuanced steps required to breathe new life into these iconic pieces.
Understanding the Hemnes Construction
Before touching a drop of stain or paint, it is essential to understand what you are working with. The Hemnes series is primarily constructed from pine, which is then finished with a dark oak veneer. This combination means that the sanding process must be approached with a keen eye. Aggressive sanding through the veneer can expose the soft pine underneath, completely altering the color and texture of the surface. Your goal is to smooth the finish without compromising the thin layer of oak that defines the piece's aesthetic.
Assessing the Current Finish
Inspect the surface under good, natural light. Is the original finish a matte lacquer, a glossy polyurethane, or perhaps a milk paint that has developed a soft sheen over time? The type of existing finish dictates the removal method. If the surface is smooth and intact, a light de-glossing may suffice. However, if there are deep scratches, water rings, or a yellowed patina, you will likely need to strip back to the raw wood. Testing the surface with denatured alcohol in an inconspicuous spot can help determine adhesion and stubbornness of the old coat.
The Stripping Process
For a thorough transformation, chemical stripping is often the most effective method. This process dissolves the old finish, allowing you to wipe it away and reveal the wood's true character. Look for a high-quality gel stripper, as these cling to vertical surfaces like drawer fronts without running. Apply the gel generously with a brush, allow it to bubble and soften the finish (usually 15 to 20 minutes), then scrape it off with a plastic putty knife. Be prepared for a mess; have tarps laid out and wear gloves to protect your skin from the potent chemicals.
Sanding Strategy
Once stripped, the wood will feel rough and unfinished. Sanding is the critical bridge between the raw wood and your new finish. Begin with a coarse grit, such as 120-grit, to remove any remaining residue or discoloration left by the stripper. Progress through the grits methodically: 120, then 180, and finally 220. Always sand *with* the grain of the wood to avoid creating new scratches. For the flat surfaces, a random orbital sander is efficient, but hand-sanding is necessary for the corners, edges, and carvings to avoid rounding off details.
Staining and Color Selection
One of the most significant decisions in refinishing Hemnes is color. Because the original veneer is dark oak, going lighter requires a two-step process: bleaching the wood followed by staining. If you prefer to keep the classic dark look, choose a stain one shade deeper than your target vision, as the raw pine will soak up color much faster than a pre-bleached surface. When applying stain, use a high-quality brush or a lint-free rag, wiping off the excess promptly to prevent blotchy patches. The pine’s porous nature will drink the color, so always test your stain mixture on a hidden area or a scrap of the same wood first.
Finishing with Polyurethane
The final step is sealing the wood to protect it from daily wear. For a durable finish that withstands the heat of mugs and the scrape of keys, a water-based polyurethane is ideal. It dries quickly, resists yellowing, and maintains the clarity of the wood grain. Apply thin, even coats using a synthetic brush, lightly sanding between coats with a 320-grit sandpaper to ensure perfect adhesion. Typically, 2 to 3 coats are sufficient for a piece like a dresser, but a high-traffic piece may benefit from a fourth coat for maximum longevity.
Reviving the Hardware
The hardware—the knobs, pulls, and hinges—plays a vital role in the overall aesthetic. Over time, chrome pulls can lose their shine, and brass fixtures can tarnish. Rather than replacing them, consider refreshing the original hardware. Chrome can be polished with a non-abrasive metal polish to remove fingerprints and restore its glare. For brass, a gentle cleaning with a mixture of salt and vinegar, followed by a coating of clear wax, will bring back the warm glow without the harmful stripping of harsh chemicals. Cleaning and polishing the hardware is often the final touch that unifies the entire piece.