AboutEileen 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.
Question I have several beautiful solid maple pieces of furniture. Although I love the look, a few pieces appear to be turning redder or orange as they age. The orangish clashes with the rest of my decor, but blends in with the oak hardwood floors making the rooms appear darker than they are. I was thinking of painting them a nice creamy color to brighten up the room, yet I feel almost "guilty" for painting over such tremendous wood. Do you have any suggestions to toning down the red/orange without completely stripping them as they are quite large - hutches, desks and dressers? And if painting is OK, what is the best way to go about it to avoid peeling or bleeding? I expect a primer coat will be necessary. Any advice is greatly appreciated. I feel so torn as to what to do, not wanting to "spoil" the wood vs. enjoying a brighter decor.
Thank you so much.
Answer Hi DS
Nice to hear from you.
I fully understand your position.
But what a shame it would be to paint over the lovely maple.
Could you tell me how old (approx), the furniture is?, has it been waxed or polished much over the years?, and finally are there smokers in your home?
If I know these things I can better advise.
Get back to me please.
Regards
Eileen
