How to prepare a veneered door for a coloured satin varnish

[pjontheroadagain]

I'm using a secondhand wood veneer (or wood effect?) door that I want to make match the other doors by using Ronseal coloured satin varnish.

The door is currently a pine colour and has a satin finish, so I'm wondering if I should lightly key the surface using fine sandpaper in the direction of the grain before applying the new varnish?

If so, what grade paper should I use?

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[dewaltdisney]

It is always a bit of a chance to paint over established finishes as to how it will turn out. Logically, the existing varnish on the door will be best as a substrate if is barely sanded (just clean any nibs) if at all. The door should be cleaned down well with methylated spirit to remove any grease, silicones, and oils from previous use. The Ronseal-stained finish you intend to use will lay on the surface and bond to the existing cleaned varnish surface. You do not want penetration, as this will make it patchy. Use a mini roller to get it on quick and keep a wet edge. Do not use a brush it is too slow and it will leave brush strokes.

DWD

[yartin]

It depends how thick the veneer is. Old veneered furniture were thick but newer ones are thin. I had old veneered dining table which I sanded with 120, stained first then varnished 4 coats, looked like new, I used Sadolin products, needed time and patience. I would give it a light sand first, then clean with methylated spirit and apply decent brand stain varnish, all water based. Take the door off makes life easier.

[pjontheroadagain]

Thanks guys - that's very useful guidance.