Shellac and lacquer are alcohol-based finishes, which can be removed with a variety of solvents that are available from your neighborhood hardware store. Shellac can be removed with denatured alcohol. If alcohol doesn't work, try lacquer thinner.

Does acetone remove lacquer?

Acetone or lacquer thinners will remove the lacquer, but you might want to try buffering either one of the solvents with some mineral spirits so it doesn't effect the stain. ... If the maker did and you remove the lacquer, you'll remove the color too. In any case, lacquer finishes are very easy to repair.

Can you sand lacquer off wood?

To strip lacquer from wood entirely by sanding, you'll want to leave a rough surface. ... Grab the 150-grit sandpaper or sanding disk of the same capacity. This finer grit will help you rough up the surface without causing damage. Be gentle with the surface, especially if you're using a sanding machine.