[texasman21]

What is the best way to completely remove polyurethane without harming the underlying stain. Also is this Varathane *link below* good for a desk that sees constant everyday use. I used regular polyurethane and its peeling up in places. Thanks for any input.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000LNRYG4...lid=3GIVV40XJ7JOW&coliid=I3B0ZR0JS3BDPJ&psc=1

 

[oh'mike]

Good paint stripper is what I use--however, it will ruin the stain and require sanding in order to get the wood to receive stain again---sorry--no magic fix to this job--

 

[ZZZZZ]

Varathane is good stuff. Follow the directions and put on several coats.

Peeling is most often due to poor preparation of the surface: it must be 100% clean and dry.

 

[blackjack]

There is no good way of doing as you've discribed. Plan on matching the stain and recoating. You may be able to sand it off gently but it will likely ruin the stain. Also, follow the instructions for multiple coats. If you wait too long between coats and don't sand as directed it will not adhere properly and will delaminate (peel).

 

[Nestor_Kelebay]

Any methylene chloride based paint stripper (like PolyStrippa) will remove alkyd paints and also alkyd based polyurethane.

 

[1acre]

+1 on methylene chloride. just watch the fumes.

as for a finish, the OP may want to look into an epoxy coat for the desk surface (similar to what restaurants do to their tables).