Cabinets, Furniture, Woodworks/spot on furniture

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Expert: - 9/3/2009


Question
I thoughtlessly sat a bottle of rubbing (isopropyl) alcohol on an antique table. It left a white ring. What can I do to make this better? It is my daughter's table, and I'll do anything at all to fix it.  It is an antique, approximately 100 years old, I think. Very dark wood.  Thanks for any help you can offer

Answer
I am sorry to hear that!  First I would use an oil based matching stain such as Old English scratch remover, or even a Watco oil.  Let it stand to allow penetration then rub out.  Hopefully that will work.  Otherwise, it would require that you sand down the entire table top and re-stain evenly. I pray the former works for you!

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Volunteer

Joseph G. Swallow

Expertise

I can answer all staircase balustrade questions where handrails, newels posts, balusters (wood and metal), and stair treads are concerned. I cannot help with cabinetry and floor (outside of stair-related treads and risers), as well as stain and finish issues unless staircase related.

Experience

30 years in the stair industry. Founder of Hardwood Creations in Southern California and CEO of Westfire Manufacturing, Inc. I was a stair builder for 10 years, both in custom and production housing. Have estimated over 750,000 single family homes and provided materials to lumber yards and builders for 12 years. Was an expert witness in several staircase related law suits in Southern California. Stair codes, installation help, stair handrail and balustrade installation are what I know best.

Organizations
NAHB of Portland, OR. Was a member of ICBO for 9 years.

Education/Credentials
Cal State Fullerton, Cypress College

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