How do i remove coloured varnish off a fire surround?

Question

because sanding is doing my head in

Answer 1

It will depend on the type of varnish. Water based acrylic or oil based. The chances are that it is oil based and in this case you will need a varnish stripper and some wire wool. Wear rubber gloves  and do the job methodically! Don't make the wood too wet when you wash off the stripped varnish.