Expert: Eileen Cronk - 3/25/2009

Question
I recently purchased a lovely mahogany dining table and chairs that are in pretty good condition. The minor imperfections that are keeping me from using the set immediately are some white and light colored scuff marks made from the previous owner as they vacuumed. Someone suggested to me a product called "4 Art" steel wool that would help to remove those slight imperfections without damaging the finish or wood underneath (it would ideally keep me from having to refinish all the pieces). I have not been able to find this product and would love any advice you can give regarding the steel wool or other helpful products or procedures to help me with this project. Also, will it be necessary or beneficial to apply a stain or seal over the existing finish even though I like the color as it is?

Answer
Hi Lynn
Nice to hear from you.
I have never heard of this 4 Art, but it will be fine to rub out these marks with fine steel wool.
And this type of minor damage does not call for refinishing.
It is absolutely not necessary nor benificial nor recommended to apply stain over this set but when the white scuff marks are removed you may find the wood color is a bit different in these areas.
You can dab on a bit of stain to conceal this. Use Minwax oil stain in as close a color to the set as you can find.
Mahogany has often been called "The King  of furniture Wood" and I agree with this. It stains beautifully and such marks are easy to hide or repair on this wood.
All thats needed to maintain the set in future is a waxing once a year with a good paste wax.
Hope this helps
Regards
Eileen