Removing new paint without ruining the original?

Question

I bought a painted vintage lamp with the intention of stripping the paint. After further investigation, I noticed it is painted with gold flecks underneath the "new" paint. I chipped some off, which worked fine. However, I noticed a lot of the gold coming off with it. I really don't want to lose the gold flecks so I was thinking of using a chemical. Is there any way I can remove the top layer without ruining the original underneath?

The flecks are similar to this lamp here: http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3158/2640264181_e0226a3267.jpg?v=0

Answer 1

If the old is an oil based product, and the topcoat is a latex you could try to use denatured alcohol, but if the chips are coming off already, you will most likely take them off as well.  I agree that it would be easier to strip it and start over with a metallic paint.

Answer 2

Take some light wet sand paper and rub it genly then prime it then paint it its just that easy good luck

Answer 3

    I remodel furniture as a hobby, I am a former carpenter. I don't know how your going to remove one layer of paint without disturbing the original.

    I would strip it off and start from scratch.