Heat stripping is best with paint but can also be used on thick layers of varnish, lacquer and other top coats. If you have large areas to strip, using a heat gun can be the most cost effective option. You'll still probably need to follow up heat stripping with a thin coat of chemical stripper, but overall it's a much less messy process.
STEP 1: Start by setting up your area. Lay down newspaper and move anything flammable out of your work area. It's a good idea to keep a fire extinguisher nearby just to be safe.
STEP 2: Make a heat shield by covering cardboard with aluminum foil. Use this to prevent hot air from damaging nearby areas. This is especially useful when stripping window or door trim.
STEP 3: Start by scraping off any loose paint.
STEP 4: Hold the gun a few inches above the painted surface and move it in a circular motion until you see the paint begin to bubble. Every heat gun is different, so it's a good idea to read the directions before starting.
STEP 5: Use a metal scraper at a 30 degree angle to remove the paint. If you're coordinated enough, you can hold the heat gun and follow it with the scraper. Otherwise you can turn off the gun at intervals and scrape off the loosened paint.
Be careful not to hold the heat gun in one place too long. You can quickly scorch the surface.
STEP 6: Dry scrape all wood surfaces to remove any remaining paint. You'll most likely need to follow up with a thin coat of chemical stripper to remove the remaining finish.
