Expert: Eileen Cronk - 3/1/2009

Question
I have an old sideboard that I purchased for 20$ at a yard sale--however, it needs some refinishing. The major issue is that one of the legs has been chewed on quite severely by the previous owner's dog. I'm not sure what type of wood filler would be best for this type of job? There is a good chunk of the leg that will need to be rebuilt. Also, on the drawers the veneer is coming loose and in some spots has chipped just a little bit. Would you recommend just gluing the veneer where it has come loose? There are also some slight discolorations and stains on the top--what would be best to use to strip it?

Answer
Hi Katie
Nice to hear from you.
Sounds to me like most of the problems with the sideboard are fixable.
First get the veneer glued back in place..do you know how to do this?
Just ask if you don't.
Next the piece needs to be completely stripped and refinished.
You will use an MC stripper to remove the finish.
Do you know how to do this? Just ask if you don't.
After the stripping is when the wood filler comes out LOL
You will fill in the areas of chipped veneer on the drawers.
Then the chewed leg.
Without seeing the actual damage to the leg and the type of leg (lathe turned or saw cut), its hard to tell you how to repair it.(perhaps you could send a picture) But if you don't have the skills to add replacement wood parts you will have to use wood filler.
If its really bad you may need several applications of filler to build up the damaged area.
The stains on top can be treated with wood bleach.
And congratulations on picking up a sideboard for $20.00.
This could be a wonderful first project if you have never tackled this work before.
So get back to me and I look forward to helping if I can.
Regards
Eileen