Introductions: A gray cabinet named "Bellanca"

This little miss, tested my patience more than any piece in the history of Knack. I am not even kidding you. I purchased it from one of my antique buddies based on a photograph {and a lot of trust!}....and don't get me wrong.... it is a great piece.... but it had hidden demons.I knew the piece would have to be stripped down due to the lovely "smear job" that it wore in its current state.....and stripping with Citristrip is usually a piece of cake....but not today folks!I stripped this piece 4 times. Yes.....4. I learned much through this stripping job that I will take away with me. First of all, the top layer came off like frosting on a cake {normal} but then that bottom white layer was not to be messed with. I soon realized that I had to work with the stripper while it was really wet, because once it dried {even a little bit} it became one with the paint and hardened like glass. I was stumped because I have never come across this before.....but I then figured out I was dealing with a factory finish that was like resin. It was the only answer that I could come up with...and it fits the era of the piece. This finish was baked on baby!Anyway....I did not give up......I persevered......not to say that I didn't moan and complain as I purchased multiple bottles of Citristrip, after wash, ruined brushes, and stepped in goo for about three days! I literally felt like a new woman when I rolled up all that mess and began painting! Whew! In the end the most beautiful blonde wood was revealed, and a painting surface that was as smooth as I'll get out. Painting this piece was a breeze...as the paint just slipped right on.And.......this is what she looks like now. Worth it for sure. In fact, she has already been scooped up and carted off to her new home before I could get her in the etsy shop.My job is done for today.xo,Barb