Expert: Eileen Cronk - 7/26/2008

Question
Dear Eileen,
I have several items of ebonized Victorian furniture (of which I am very fond). Sadly, some of them have "lost" the ebonized finish here and there, and the original pale wood colour shows through. Is there a good way of "repairing" this ebonized finish, or do I have to sand down the entire item and redo the entire piece? How is the ebonizing achieved?
I would be very grateful for information on this subject.
Also, some of these items have gilt embellishments, and the gilt has gone here and there. Is there a "short cut" to touching up this decor?
Thank you in advance!

Answer
Hi Anna
Nice to hear from you.
This type of furniture has been stained or painted black.
Either method is called ebonized.
I have sucessfully made very minor repairs to the stained finish with black stain.
I would not attempt to repair the painted furniture.
I am of the opinion that these pieces are better left with all the signs of age rather than attempt home repairs, but do a tiny test area with a bit of black stain. It may not even penetrate your particular wood but no harm done in the attempt.
It just may disguise it enough to suit.
Anna I am going to refer you to one of our newest experts with regards to this whole topic.
I have had the pleasure of seeing one of his restored ebonized pieces and he can better tell you about this I'm sure.
I would hate to see you mess up pieces you are fond of.
The gentlemans name is Rick Swenson.
On the same page you found me

http://www.allexperts.com/el/Collectibles-General-Antiques/

Hope this helps.
Kind Regards
Eileen