I have 2 dresser's that are over 40 years old, they are in good shape except the tops.

Question

how can i fix them with out sanding and cheap?

Answer 1

I know this will sound crazy but it does work on those older varnished tops.

Get some regular rubbing alcohol and pour into a bowl. Use a new soft paint brush. Drip the bush into alcohol and make one long brush stroke across the top. Try to clean plenty of alcohol in the brush....and only go with the grain and never go over the same spot twice. After you have completed the whole top let it dry. The alcohol will soften up the old finish and let it flow out smooth. If it has the newer polyurethane it will not work. If this doesn't help smooth the tops out...try just wiping ( washing ) the old top off with a rag soaked in the alcohol.

Answer 2

maybe get a tinted colored glass made to fit the top. I would never recommend painting old furniture...always to restore it. Sanding is very easy and then you can just stain and varnish. It just takes a little time is all. also...maybe do a clear glass and put pressed flowers under it. on linen paper.