Fluted Wood Columns

Question: I am needing to strip 80 years worth of paint from some fluted wood columns. The columns are in good condition and worth saving if I can remove the paint effectively. What media and grading do you recommend? How much media do I need?

Response: Corn cob grit will be the best option to protect the wood from being etched or 'raising' the grain. If the paint is too difficult to strip using this media then a Fine Walnut Shell Grit will be a better option taking care to protect the wood surface. Depending on how difficult it is to strip the paint I would conservatively suggest 2-3 pounds per square foot will be required.

Slightly edited from the Shop Talk Forum.