Expert: Eileen Cronk - 4/12/2008

Question
I have a 30-year old dining room set manufactured by a well-known maker; the embossed stamp on the underside of the table says "solid cherry". However, this set had an antique white stain applied as it was custom-made by its former owner (who also owned a retail furniture store). The laquer (or varnish or whatever was applied after the white stain) has yellowed substantially in several places, while in other areas the colour is still in its original condition. Original owner has since passed on, furniture store is closed.
Do you have any suggestions for correcting the yellowing without completely removing the finish and starting from scratch? Photos can be sent if this would help.
Your comments will be appreciated.

Answer
Hi Becerly
Nice to hear from you.
Gosh I'm sorry about this but there is just no way to correct a yellowed finish unless its removed and replaced.
Oil based poly is known for this yellowing and would be especially noticable over a white stain.
If you really love this table perhaps you would consider a refinish.
On a long shot try rubbing the yellow area with a bit of mineral spirits and a rag in the hope it could possibly be something else that caused this yellowing (I don't think so though).
Great question
Good Luck
Regards
Eileen