removing varnish from pine doors

[southeastastra]

i did them a few years back and they now look really dark, can i use a blow torch to get the varnish off and will the doors be returned to their former glory?

any excuse to use my blow torch really

Wouldn't sanding be better? I thought blow torches were for layers of paint or crusting Creme Brulees

DH says you can, but it you will probably end up scorching the doors in places and you'll have to sand them afterwards anyway!

(He looked at me in horror, when I started the conversation with, 'can you use a blow torch.. )

ha, if i used sandpaper it would take ages and wouldn't be as much fun

Ooh get an electric sander. Then you can brandish it.

i could nick my dad's electric sander - plays havoc with your bingo wings though

Take them outside and scrub them with caustic soda. This stuff is seriously heavy duty and thick rubber gloves, eye protection etc.
Apply with a plastic scrubbing brush and once the varnish is off, rinse with plenty of water.
Leave the doors to dry.
If they are still dark then you can nuke them with oxalic acid - equally obnoxious but effective.
Keep the children and pets well away if you use this method. The doors will come up like new.

wow that sounds like hard work otter! maybe i'll just leave them for the time being. there are lots to do