Mechanical Stripping
Mechanical Stripping is a method used in furniture restoration to remove old paint, varnish, or finishes from furniture pieces using machines and tools rather than chemicals. This technique includes using sanders, scrapers, or specialized stripping tools to remove old finishes while preserving the wood underneath. It's often preferred over chemical stripping because it's more environmentally friendly and can be safer for the worker. Other names for this process include power stripping, machine stripping, or tool-based finish removal.
Examples in Resumes
Restored 50+ antique pieces using Mechanical Stripping techniques
Trained junior restorers in safe Machine Stripping procedures
Specialized in Power Stripping delicate Victorian furniture
Typical job title: "Furniture Strippers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Furniture Strippers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Learning Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you determine the best stripping method for different types of furniture?
Expected Answer: A senior restorer should discuss evaluating wood type, finish type, age of piece, and condition before choosing between mechanical methods. They should mention protecting delicate veneers and considering the piece's value.
Q: How would you train someone in mechanical stripping techniques?
Expected Answer: Should explain safety procedures, tool selection, demonstration methods, common mistakes to avoid, and how to gradually build skills from simple to complex pieces.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What safety precautions do you take when mechanical stripping?
Expected Answer: Should mention proper protective equipment like dust masks, eye protection, and gloves, as well as proper ventilation and clean-up procedures.
Q: How do you handle difficult areas like carvings when mechanical stripping?
Expected Answer: Should describe using different tool attachments, working carefully around details, and knowing when to switch to alternative methods.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What basic tools are used in mechanical stripping?
Expected Answer: Should be able to name common tools like sanders, scrapers, and stripping attachments, and explain their basic use.
Q: How do you know when you've removed all the old finish?
Expected Answer: Should describe visual and tactile indicators that show when wood is properly stripped, and mention the importance of not damaging the wood underneath.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic tool operation
- Simple flat surface stripping
- Safety procedures
- Basic wood identification
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex surface stripping
- Detailed area work
- Tool maintenance
- Multiple finish type removal
Senior (5+ years)
- Antique and valuable piece restoration
- Training and supervision
- Complex project planning
- Damage assessment and repair
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of proper safety equipment use
- Unfamiliarity with different wood types
- Lack of experience with various tools
- No understanding of when mechanical stripping might damage furniture
Related Terms
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Cutting HR Costs Without Sacrificing Quality: A How-To for Savvy Executives
Supercharge Your Candidate Screening: 7 Unorthodox Ways to Hire Faster Without Breaking a Sweat
Why Machine Hiring?
