How do I refinish ornate wood furniture?

I bought a beautiful old dining set that has lots of ornate and curlicues in the wood. How do I refinish it without destroying the wood decorations? It's not an antique but hasn't been cared for so I want to get rid of the old finish and stain it new. I'm worried sanding with sandpaper will hurt the curlicues, Any help woud be appriciated!