Expert: Kirk Ryan - 10/24/2008

Question
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Your Question was:

I recently purchased a floor model table and chairs from Hancock Fabrics at a very reasonable price. The table top is round and looks inlaid with four "triangular" pieces of wood with grains opposite each other surrounded by a "solid" piece that the others are "set in." It is a very beautiful look.

Because it was a floor model, it has several minor scrapes or scuffs and scratches on it from being used to display home decor. Most are visible only if you look across the surface of the table... a couple are deeper and one (about 1.5 inches) penetrates the finish.

How can I fill these scratches and eliminate the surface scuffs without damaging the finish? I don't know what the wood is, but the grain is fairly tight and even; the color looks like a dark maple.

Following is the reason:

Hi Leigh
Nice to hear from you.
These new finishes are just not my area Leigh but hopefully this man will help you.
http://www.allexperts.com/ep/1468-90619/Cabinets-Furniture-Woodworks/Kirk-Ryan.h...

Good Luck
Regards
Eileen

Answer
Hi Leigh,

I would try to get some furniture oil or conditioner. See if applying an oil specifically for maple helps. If this does not work, you may need to contact a professional repair/refinish person.

I have a feeling you may have a sealer on the table, and from what you describe, at an angle with the right light, you can see fair scratches. Other scratches that are more apparent are actually in the wood and need to be repaired. Its not easy, but usually the pros will sand down the affected area of sealer and re-spray it. As far as the deeper scratches go, that may have to refinish the area to repair it.

Best of luck to you.