Expert: Eileen Cronk - 12/1/2008

Question
I purchased a dresser set form JcPennny about 18 years ago thinking all this time it was solid wood. Well a few weeks ago I spilled some nail polish remover on it when I wiped it off I could see it was pressed wood. I have a softball size spot that needs fixed. What is this on this dresser that had me fooled for so long, how can I fix it so I can dump this *%#*.

Answer
Hi Deborah
Take heart that you are not the first person fooled by this junk furniture.
It has what I call a "photo finish". And I think thats close to the correct word for this stuff.
Its plastic that has a wood grain printed on it.
Obviously yours was well enough done that you assumed it to be real wood.
Nail polish remover (acetone) destroys this plastic as you found out.
Its just "fool the eye" wood and basically the only repair that could work is a fool the eye one LOL.
To do this you need a selection of craft paint colors from the craft store. Maybe you already have one or have a friend that does. You need a very small amount.
First duplicate the base color. Then apply some grain as in the original. It will take some test mixing colors and a couple of fine brushes but its the only way.
Then a coat of sealer. Craft sealer is fine as long as the sheen matches.
Good Luck with this.
Kind Regards
Eileen