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Cabinets, Furniture, Woodworks/Beautiful Mahogany Table Needs Veneer Top Refinished

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Expert: Kirk Ryan - 2/22/2010


Question

Carve edge on Table
I'm absolutely sick about the damage to our beautiful, heavy mahogany table.  It's massive, with beautifully carved edges . . . and a veneer top to it.  Our son slid a large, heavy planter across it and now there are very long, noticeable scratches that I can't get rid of.  And, I accidentally set a casserole dish down on a small bead and it made a 1 1/2" star-like scratch there.  Is there anyway that I can make these disappear or become  much less noticeable on my own? If not,  would a professional be able to refinish the top  and give the top a less shiny surface?

Answer
You can try getting a furniture oil/conditioner that is specific to Mahogany. Also a very fine, "triple zero" steel wool. Try just oiling the scratches first. If the scratches are deep and not smooth, then try the steel wool. Be gentle with the wool, and use the oil after you use the steel wool. Try to stay with the grain if you can.  

If this does not work, then I would recommend you find a professional who may be able to refinish it. Veneer can be tricky because they may have to replace all the strips of veneer. But you had said you wanted a less shiny surface, so that might make it easier for the repairman.  
    Questioner's Rating
    Rating(1-10)Knowledgeability = 10Clarity of Response = 10Politeness = 10
    CommentMany thanks! We'll be trying the "triple-zero" steel wool on it this weekend.


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Kirk Ryan

Expertise

I can answer many questions about furniture, buying, selling, repairing, and many tricks I have learned over the years. I can also give advice on decorating, color schemes, room designs and layouts.

Experience

My family owns a Scandinavian furniture store here in Massachusetts, I have been working with furniture for 10 years.

Education/Credentials
I went to Johnson and Wales University for business and graduated high school.

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