Cabinets, Furniture, Woodworks/leather table top

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Expert: - 8/3/2009


Question
I received a table from a friend who was cleaning out a old farmhouse. It has great detail on the legs and a stamped design on the legs in the form of a diamond. this table top is thought to be alligator skin but I am not sure. it is very stained I washed it with an oil soap very gently but not all the stains came off. My question is could I stain the top a dark color say black or brown? I have begun sand the wooden frame I am not sure what to do with this either. I have very lightly sanded it.

Answer
Hi Eileen
Nice to hear from you.
Yes you could certainly try staining the leather top. And it just may hide the stains for you.
Instead of trying to sand the finish off, use a paint stripper. Then stain and apply a new finish.
If you need the full stripping info, just ask.
Regards
Eileen

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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.

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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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