Stripping paint?

[brewso.livejournal.com]

I got a cool old bookshelf at a yard sale today. Because I'm familiar with the line and make, I know that there's nice quarter-sawn oak under the several thick layers of shiny (and ugly) paint that someone applied. I am not interested in stripping it myself, because of the toxicity of the chemicals involved, and because it's a lot of work (or so I'm told). Does anyone know of a place where I could take this or a person who specializes in this sort of thing? I have a car, so outside the area is fine. Thanks!

Comments

[hrafn.livejournal.com]

It's not necessarily extremely toxic or time consuming or otherwise annoying, if you use this stuff (http://www.kk.org/cooltools/archives/001620.php). I haven't used it myself, but my dad has, and he thinks it's wonderful. When I finally get around to stripping the ugly, 1970s brown paint of my dresser, that's what I'll be doing it with.

[nomacmac.livejournal.com]

We had all of our doors and windows stripped at Minuteman Stripping in Union Sq.

[abilouise.livejournal.com]

Minuteman Stripping conjures up a whole different business model to me. One that I really think someone ought to start up.

[boblothrope.livejournal.com]

How long did it take, and how much did it cost per item?

[nomacmac.livejournal.com]

I don't remember the exact amount, but 5 yrs ago, it was something like $65/sash, and about $200/door. They use a dip tank. Stuff doesn't come out perfect...things needed sanding, some of the window glass broke, and we needed to use a dental pick to get some paint from the intricate trim on the doors. But, it was still easier than doing it by hand.