I have a beautiful antique art deco diningroom set, but the finish is wearing off in places. Is there anything I can do to touch it up without paying to have everything refinished?
2006-12-18 07:29:22 · 7 answers · asked by Jessica L 1 in Home & Garden ➔ Do It Yourself (DIY)
I spruce up my antiques with Howard's Restore A Finish which is found at the home improvement stores. It comes in clear and tints to match almost any wood tone. It does not damage or interfere with the existing finish, but will fill in where there are scratches or the finish has worn off and then leaves a wonderful shine.
2006-12-18 08:11:07 · answer #1 · answered by eskie lover 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I too would caution you on simply applying Varnish to your furniture. First you should decide if you're going to keep the items for the value or daily use. If it's for daily use and you're not interested in selling (ex. Keeping it in the family) Then I would first verify that the item is "all wood" and do a mild cleaning (Murphy's Orange cleaning soap... etc.) to remove the wax buildup. This will allow you to see the true color so you can later purchase a stain to match.
I have refinished many antiques, and have witnessed many mistakes. The above is just the first step to color matching.
2006-12-19 04:52:37 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes. The best thing to do is to get some varnish that compliments the finish of the wood. For example, if the finish of the wood is dark, then get some varnish that is for a dark wood. After that apply some stain that is the same color as the wood finish of the furniture. Once you have done this. Varnish the rest of the wood so that the finish will be uniform throughout the furniture. Once completed, it will look great.
2006-12-18 07:35:33 · answer #3 · answered by Lewis P 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would not try to do it yourself. Most of the time doing a refinishing job on an antique will ruin it's value. I would either leave it as is or contact a professional restorer for advice.
2006-12-18 08:57:26 · answer #4 · answered by gwardolind 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
WHOA - as a woodworker - beware of advice that will ruin your antique - don't go simply varnishing as others have advised unless you want to devalue your investment.
Get a professional opinion and advice - if you can afford a professional job then fine, if ot - save up as it is false economy to attempt this work if you don't know what you are doing. good luck
2006-12-18 13:10:36 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I can't say what the finish is, but if it looks like paint, I would be very careful. People used lead-based paint 50-60 years ago. Lead-based paint is highly toxic and can cause brain damage if it is inhaled or taken internally in any manner. That being the case, when in doubt, do not sand it. Check with your local paint store, explain your problem, they can probably help you identify the finish.
2016-03-13 08:16:45 · answer #6 · answered by Susan 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Use a good furniture oil not glade that's parafine, Old English is good
2006-12-18 07:35:22 · answer #7 · answered by Chris 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
leave it alone as the value will be greatly reduced if you paint it or touch it up
2006-12-18 07:32:42 · answer #8 · answered by aussie 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋