Put on gloves, safety glasses, and a mask
Test the paint for lead before starting
Lay down a drop cloth
Scrape loose paint with a putty knife or paint scraper
Apply a chemical paint stripper if needed
Let the stripper sit for the recommended time
Scrape off softened paint
Use a heat gun to loosen stubborn paint if appropriate
Sand the wood to remove remaining paint
Start with coarse-grit sandpaper and finish with finer grit
Wipe away dust with a damp cloth or tack cloth
Repeat stripping or sanding if paint remains
Clean the wood surface before refinishing
Dispose of paint debris safely