Coloured stain on top of varnish

[Deewhy]

We moved into a house a few months back, we are at the stage of decorating. All the wood in the house is pine covered in coloured varnish. The finish is ridiculous and very red. Is it possible to use coloured varnish on top of the previous stuff. We bought b&q coloured varnish ( the water based White stuff) and found it didn't work, I am wondering if an oil based version would work. Any help on this issue would be appreciated as i ain't looking forward to stripping it all off.
Thanks in advance =)

 

[TheDec]

Firstly an oil based coating will offer better hide and covering power, the deep red of which you speak is probably Mahogony and the colour strike may prove hard to conceal. Can I ask you what is the colour choice of your coloured stain/varnish.

Dec

 

[Deewhy]

Thanks for the quick reply. We haven't yet decided on a colour, but it will be more brown perhaps walnut or dark oak.

 

[TheDec]

Well you would have a better chance using either a mid to dark oak, now in a situation like this the correct prep is important so treat yourself to some 240 grit wet/dry sandpaper. Pour some water into a basin or similar container and place a piece of sand paper into it leave it for a minute or two then working from the top down start to sand always work with the grain and never across it.

When this is done wipe with a dry rag, you will notice that the colour strike will have started to subdue, Repeat this at least one more time now you should be ready to apply your product. The reds are always the hardest colours to conceal.

Let me know how you get on

Dec

 

[Deewhy]

Thanks and will do.