Yes, as long as the previous finish is not lacquer or shellac. Be sure to test the selected colour on a hidden spot to see how it will look over the original finish. To prepare the surface, make sure that the finish is clean and has had all wax and polish removed. Then lightly sand with #180 or #220 sandpaper.
Then thaw meat, add seasoning and press into strips or sticks, and place on trays to dry. Depending on how thick meat is cut, how heavily dryer is loaded, and the humidity, jerky takes from 4 to 15 hours to dry.
Link to purchase the Nesco Pro Food Dehydrator: http://astore.amazon.com/wingman115-2... Here is a simple and easy way to make homemade beef jerky. I use a Nesco Pro food dehydrator with adjustable temperature settings. The recipe is simple. 4 cups of Soy Sauce. 1 pound of Dark Brown Sugar. 1 bottle of Liquid Smoke. Coarse Ground Black Pepper to taste.