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Cabinets, Furniture, Woodworks/1950 stained oak bedroom set

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Expert: - 5/25/2009


Question

dresser
I have inherited a 1950s bedroom set. I believe the wood is oak. The finish has some places where it is flaking off and I'd like to fix it. The finish is unlike any other finish I've ever seen. It is cream colored and flakes off like paint but the wood grain shows through as though the grain itself resists the paint and the paint only adheres to the small smooth spaces between the grain lines. Is there a special stain or paing mixture I should use to repair these pieces.

Answer
Hi Anita
Nice to hear from you.
This is oak as you guessed.
It has a wash or pickled effect applied. Then a clear coat of lacquer very likely. Several coats actually which are flaking off.
If the actual white color is fine, try lightly sanding the chipped areas with 220 grit sandpaper then give the area a spray of lacquer.
It looks like high gloss lacquer was used originally.
Get this at any hardware store.
Do not spray lacquer if the humidity is high. You want a nice dry day.
Good Luck
Regards
Eileen  
    Questioner's Rating
    Rating(1-10)Knowledgeability = 10Clarity of Response = 10Politeness = 10
    CommentThanks for the suggestions. I will give it a try and let you know.


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Eileen Cronk

Expertise

Hi..I can answer most questions about the repairing,stripping and refinishing of all your old furniture and wood items(the things we call antiques)I can give advice about what to buy/avoid at auctions/flea markets. I do not give appraisals on antiques.

Experience

I have been refinishing antiques for the past 30yrs. While I have taken several courses over the years,I have found that "hands on" learning is the best teacher. Perhaps I can help you avoid some of the mistakes I made while learning.

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