Need help with antique dresser
2 years ago
last modified: 2 years ago
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Need some opinions on this antique dresser
Comments (9)Alot of people will laugh and skoff at this -- but here goes anyway! I have done this on several pieces of furniture-- It does work. Once you have the glove drawers totally finish free--Raw wood- Carefully take the tops off -- Take your time -- they may be screwed, nailed, tacked, or glued. Any combo of these may be present. If this scares you may need to talk to a "in-person" restorer. Just remember they were in pieces once -- and with care they can be disassembled. Once you have the CLEAN/FINISH-free tops. You can actually lay them on the warm grass with the bow up -- put a heavy object on top and check them often and do not leave them out in the rain -- only warm sunny days work here. I have done 2 dropleaf walnut table sides this way. Trouble is that walnut in particular will actually bow the opposite way if you leave it out too long. Been there done that!! Once it is flat again -- bring it in out of the sun and moisture (which comes out of the ground (unless you live in a desert)). AS soon as you can --- seal ( with finish of your choice) BOTH SIDES of the wood. I know Im am risking all sorts of doubters here -- but I have done this at least 4-5 times on various parts and pieces. Sometimes it has taken two days in the sun out on my (flat space) lawn. Only walnut has reversed its warp by leaving out too long.I just turned the part over and did it over while watching it closer. Oak seemed to unwarp and stay where it should. Good luck -- I know this sounds overly simplistic -- but IT WORKS!!...See MoreWhat style is this antique dresser and what pulls do I need? pic
Comments (11)Yes...Eastlake....and the drop[ pulls are accurate....are you missing some? If you do get new....keep the old ones and only replace what's needed. The nails show because there were decorations, veneer and perhaps a rosette and someone removed them....and the nails are what's left. Pity. But it's still very nice... It's several kinds of wood....I don't see any walnut but then I am not close to it....likely butternut, which is a walnut variety but lighter in color...and perhaps maple and birch. Would have had at one time burl trim. Linda c...See MoreNeed Help with DIY Antique Dresser to Sink Vanity Conversion
Comments (13)An excellent topcoat in a wet environment is Waterlox - DIY friendly, easy to repair, and has excellent water resistance. Bleed through is usually found with those deep red stains usually found on Mahogany. Shellac is a good barrier to prevent/minimize that. Likely not necessary on the piece you show but no harm in doing it. Caveat there though is the shellac in the can is not de-waxed and may affect your choice of top coat. As for staining the body darker to match the top - probably not necessary. The little bit of color that will peek through after you distress will not appear that much different - and as stated above a bit of dark wax can even it up if it is that noticeable to you. A little dark wax goes a long way so use with a light hand. As for the underside of the top - use a sanding sponge to get under there - easiest if you flip the piece over and work that way. You may not need stain under there but you will want your topcoat to cover it. Here is a link that might be useful: Waterlox...See MoreAdvice restoring antique dresser
Comments (1)Heat and moisture will loosen hide glue so dis-assemble the whole thing,refit/tighten joints and use nothing other than hide glue(including veneer) to re-assemble. Why hide? Because moisture and water will alow joints be separated if needed later on. IDK what to do with finish either,your call. Good luck and post pics when you are done....See More- 2 years ago
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