If you’re refinishing furniture and want to remove old paint, varnish, or glue, proper tools are a must. To make your prep work easier and more precise, we’re introducing a full range of Staalmeester Scrapers – tools we believe are perfect for furniture painters, upcyclers, and restoration pros. Each scraper features extra-hardened metal and solid beechwood handles, designed for comfort and control on even the most detailed surfaces.
Each scraper can help to remove old finishes and get into different details in the wood. We will walk you through what sets them apart and how to care for them so they stay sharp and ready for every future project.
Why Furniture Painters Love These Tools
One of the most common challenges in furniture refinishing is stripping away old finishes to reveal raw wood beneath. If you’re planning to apply Stain & Finishing Oil, a Paint Wash, or simply revive the wood with some Hemp Oil or Tung Oil, having a smooth, clean surface is key. These tools make it easy to remove layers of varnish, paint, or even glue residue, especially in detailed or hard-to-reach areas, without damaging the wood grain.
The Staalmeester Scraper Collection | Furniture Refinishing
Available sizes: 5 cm and 7 cm
Best for:
- Stripping large flat furniture surfaces like table tops or cabinet doors
- Removing contact paper or glue
- Smoothing filler or uneven finishes before repainting
This wide-blade scraper helps you power through big jobs quickly, especially when dealing with stubborn finishes or layered products on broad furniture surfaces.
Size: 8 cm
Best for:
- Removing old varnish from corners and bevels
- Lifting glue or residue from drawer joints
- Precision scraping in tight spaces
Ideal for intricate pieces with joinery, bevelled trim, or layered mouldings, this scraper helps remove buildup while preserving fine details.
Best for:
- Stripping varnish from decorative profiles and carvings
- Cleaning paint out of grooves and trim edges
When you’re working with ornate antique pieces or carved details, the profile scraper gives you access to tight contours without over-sanding or damaging edges.
Best for:
- Removing old finishes from curved or rounded furniture surfaces
- Cleaning glue from scrollwork or pedestal legs
- Prepping curved edges for staining or refinishing
This is your go-to tool for everything rounded—ideal for stripping curved dresser legs, arched drawer fronts, or any decorative trim that needs a delicate touch.
Curious to see them in action? Read more here!
What Sets Staalmeester Scrapers Apart
Built to Last
Each scraper is crafted from extra-hardened steel for sharpness and durability that stands up to even tough, layered finishes.
Comfort and Precision
Solid beechwood handles are shaped for control and ease of use, making long projects more comfortable and more accurate.
Perfect for Furniture Prep
These scrapers aren’t general-purpose tools – they’re purpose-built for the challenges of refinishing and stripping layers of old paint, varnish and other topcoats. If you’re re-staining a dresser top, refinishing a dining table, or prepping a vintage sideboard for a brand-new look.
How to Care for Your Staalmeester Scrapers
Clean After Each Use
Wipe away any residue with a damp cloth. For tougher jobs, use a compatible solvent.
Dry Thoroughly
Moisture can rust your blade and damage the wood; always dry completely after use.
Sharpen as Needed
Use a sharpening stone or file to maintain a clean edge and ensure smooth scraping.
Store Smart
Keep scrapers dry and protected with their included safety covers, ideally stored in a tool wrap or drawer.
FAQs: Using Scrapers for Furniture Refinishing
Q: What tools are used to scrape paint off furniture?
The most effective tools include high-quality metal scrapers like the Staalmeester range. Each style—triangle, profile, oval, or wide blade—can handle various contours and surface styles on different types of furniture, from flat tabletops to intricate carvings.
Q: Do paint scrapers work on old furniture?
Yes! Paint scrapers are one of the most reliable tools for removing old finishes. They offer better control than sanding alone and reduce the risk of damaging delicate wood grain—especially important when preparing for restaining.
Q: What is a wood scraper used for in refinishing?
Wood scrapers are used to remove built-up varnish, paint, glue, or old topcoats. They’re especially helpful when trying to get back to bare wood to allow oils or stains to soak in properly.
Q: What to use after stripping furniture?
Once the surface is stripped, we recommend lightly sanding with a fine-grit paper if needed, then wiping clean. From there, you can apply your wood finishing product, such as Fusion’s Stain & Finishing Oil, Paint Wash, or any of our wood finishing products for a fresh, durable finish.
Ready to Strip Back and Refinish?
Does your next project involve scraping away layers of old paint or varnish to reveal the beautiful wood beneath? These scrapers are ideal for exactly that. With smart design, serious durability, and precision for even the fiddliest corners, the Staalmeester Scraper collection helps you prep confidently and refinish beautifully.
Time to scrape back the years. Your next show-stopping makeover is just beneath the surface.