When it comes to upcycling anything, your finish is only as good as your prep. So it is important to make sure you give your piece of furniture a really good scrub!
I then give the whole piece a good sanding with a sanding block/sponge. You are only giving it a scuff of sand to help the paint adhere and to take the shine off the wood.
Its time to mask off! I mask off the edges of the sections I am going to strip to ensure they stay clear of the stripper. I also mask off the back section of the bureau, where I will be applying the gold leaf.