Expert: Eileen Cronk - 8/26/2008

Question
I purchased a nice maple drop leaf table at an estate sale its dated 1959.  I have no idea what kind of finish it has on it and no desire to refinish it, but I would like to freshen up the surface, it has a few scratches and appears worn or dry in spots and one area the finish appears pale.  But overall great shape.  Is there any oil I can apply over the existing finish?  I will not get regular use mostly decorative.
Also I purchased 2 1940's upholstered chairs with original fabric in excellent condition,  It smells musty, there are no stains on the fabric, do you know how to remove the odor without harming the fabric?
Thank you for any advice you may have.


Answer
Hi Karen
Nice to hear from you.
Yes its possible to freshen the table as you suggest with oil.
Heres what I'd do.
First a real good cleaning with a rag dipped in mineral spirits.
This cleaning is a must. If dirt is heavy, use a super fine steel wool pad dipped in the spirits as a scrubber.
Dry with clean rags as you go.
Then get one of those tiny cans of Minwax stain in a color matching the table.
Wipe on a coat with a rag. Rub back any excess.
Let this dry.
Could take up to 48 hours so don't panic.
Then get a small can of Circa 1850 low luster tung oil and wipe on a coat with a rag.
For the musty odor in the chair.
Get a can of Fabreeze fabric freshener.
This is an awesome product for removing odors from fabric.
My upholstered furniture gets this regularly.
Great question
Regards
Eileen