Stripping

• 1). Place the piano on a drop cloth. Close the key cover to prevent the stripper from dripping onto the keys, which can damage them. Tape off any areas that do not need to be stripped. Open a window for proper ventilation and set up a fan to circulate fresh air.
  
  
• 2). Put on heavy rubber gloves and goggles before using wood-stripping chemicals, especially if you are sensitive to chemicals. Brush on water-based finish stripper with a disposable paintbrush. Start with hard-to-reach areas, then work out to the main body of the piano, starting from the top of the piano down.
  
  
• 3). Allow the stripper to set for the amount of time recommended on the label. The finish will dissolve. Scrape the stripper, old paint and finish from the piano with a nylon scraper. Work around the edges and in detail areas with a nylon "steel wool" scrubber. Scrape the old finish and stripper into a metal can with a lid for disposal.
  
  

Refinishing

• 1). Wipe the surface down with a rag dampened in odorless mineral spirits. Let the surface dry and wipe it with a tack cloth to remove any grimy residue from the old finish.
  
  
• 2). Apply stain and clear finish all-in-one with a fine-bristle brush, starting at the top of the piano and working down. Work around the edges and in detail areas first, working a small section at a time. Apply the stain in long, straight strokes, working in the direction of the wood's grain.
  
  
• 3). Spread the finish evenly to prevent runs and drips. Wipe errant drops quickly with a rag dampened in mineral spirits to prevent spots. Allow this first coat to dry for the amount of time recommended on the label. Apply a second coat using the same technique. Allow the second coat to dry; add a coat of clear finish in your choice of sheens to deepen the shine, using the same technique.