Expert: maura macaluso - 9/3/2009

Question
QUESTION: hello.  I am trying to get rid of some marks on 'satin' finished wood furniture.  The marks are shiny and are where people continually put their hands and are of a usual traffic hand area.  Do you have any suggestions for a product or technique that can rid these marks from the wood without ruining the finish?  Any advice will be greatly appreciated.  I've already tried a furniture polish (the one in the yellow can), murphy's wood soap diluted and vinegar/water.  
Thanks.  Katie.

ANSWER: Hi Katie,  I am having a real hard time visualizing the marks you are referring to.  My first suggestion would have been to try a mild soap to see if it was caused by the oils in peoples hands polishing those spots over time, but you say you have tried wood soap already. If it is not something that is atop the actual finish, it must be the finish itself which has been affected.  You don't say how old this furniture is or its value.  If it is a valuable antique or one day it might be, you may not want to fool with the wear marks at all. They will add to its value eventually. Without seeing this problem in person, it is hard to diagnose it. Perhaps you have a friend who is either a carpenter, woodworker or re-finisher who may be able to look at it.  If it is only shiny and not discolored, it may be normal wear marks where the finish itself is wearing away.  I would hate to suggest you refinish and blend those spots into the rest of the piece, but I won't because there may be a simpler solution. Sorry that I could not be of more help to you but thanks for the question and good luck with your problem.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hello, Thanks so much for your quick response.  The furniture is brand new - only 8 months old.  I am going to try some more wood soap on the article - maybe not diluted.  And if this doesn't work, then shall I endevour to have this refinished?  Once again, thanks.  
And, on a different note, can you recommend any wood turning courses that are relatively short?  
Best regards,
Katie.

Answer
Hi katie, you can also try a little mineral oil but in my humble opinion, you should not be having any issues with the furniture if it is only 8 months old.  I would consult either the dealer or manufacturer before investing too much time and effort into your problem.  You most likely have some sort of warranty if it is any decent quality furniture.


As for woodturning classes, i don't know what part of the country you are from but if you have a woodcraft shop anywear near you, They run classes occasionally. But for some top notch instruction I am going to refer you to the national woodturners association, which lists classes in most areas of the country.

http://www.woodturner.org/resources/schools.cfm

the woodturner.org site is also a great place to gain lots of other knowledge about turning.

Good luck to you.