Expert: Eileen Cronk - 6/11/2009

Question
i have recently acquired a lovely but scratched welsh dresser. it is pine and structurally sound, i would like to restore it, what is the best way of removing the scratches?

Answer
Hi Sarah
Nice to hear from the UK.
Sarah without seeing this damage this is a tricky question to answer.
What I do is completely strip a piece before the decision is made to do anything further to the scratches and blemishes the piece has acquired over the years.
This is what I will suggest you do as well.
Its often the case that nothing needs to be done.
But if the scratches are so severe that they can be classed as damage, then there will need to be some sanding done.
It will be unfortunate if the piece needs sanding.
Not only will it remove the woods patina (yes stripped wood very much has patina), it will also remove the lovely golden color that pine acquires over the years.
When doing any lovely old piece, never attempt to make it look like it just came from the factory.
Please keep me posted.
Kind Regards
Eileen