Varnish problem

[lloyd1e]

Every piece of wood in the house is stained with a mahogany-coloured varnish (courtesy of the previous owner). Whilst we're happy with the fact that we don't have to paint anywhere we would like a lighter shade. As you can imagine the idea of sanding/stripping skirting boards, doors etc is daunting so over to all those clever people out there...any ideas? Would a paler woodstain cover the darker one or is there a product that would get rid of the stain or do we get out the sander?

[smurfchops]

Hoydie, I have a similar question (But no answer I'm afraid). I have some repro furniture which is varnished and dark mahogany wood, I would like to paint it cream myself but the thought of stripping etc. (like you) puts me off. Help for both of us please !

[buildersmate]

Can't hold out much hope of success, I'm afraid. The general principal is that you can make something darker but not lighter. You can cover the stain with an opaque finish like paint, but that will also cover the grainy surface of the wood, which you wanted to keep. People strip pine by putting caustic on it. That makes the surface of the wood lighter in colour so it would probably bleach the colour of stained wood a lighter colour. You could try a small area in an inconspicious place, but it sounds like a load of work to do well