My woodwork (mission style gumwood 1917) is crackled and uneven. What's the first step in refinishing it?

...I plan to test a small section first and decide if I should find a professional. Should I sand it or use some type of stripper? I want to match the original color, which is a red oak stain, with golden undertones. Thanks!

Answers:
cosult a pro

Other answers:
Is the finished cracked or the wood??? Big difference in process.
Is the finished cracked or the wood??? Big difference in process.
If solid wood and only finish is defective ,then stripping is a good option .Solvent based strippers are the most effective but be prepared for a messy job . If you just want to remove the surface coating and leave the color largely alone then a refinishing solution is good -it acts as a gentle stripper -Formbies is good if still avalable . Commercial stripping will really clean the piece but is a little hard on the wood If the piece is ply forget it.
  • Do you DIY, Destroy It Yourself?
  • Stainless Steel Sink issue?
  • How do you fix a water mark on wallpaper?
  • Which came first the nail or the hammer?
  • I'm planning to repaint my bathroom but it is covered with high gloss paint, how do I paint over that?
  • I never done this before. But does anyone know how to tell me step by step on how to change a lawnmower blade?
  • I have a sick dogwood tree and lilac bush, they both have the same problem. HELP !!?
  • Can anyone tell me about planting "Black wallnut trees". How high they grow, ect. Jim?
  • How to build handmade tiles?