Expert: Eileen Cronk - 8/17/2007

Question
Hello! i just bought a drexel china cabinet. It has what I would call a mid-century
style, and is stamped on the back "4481-4 p-biscayne by drexel 2/57" The top
piece is in good shape, but the veneer on the bottom (drawers & cabinets) is a
bit chipped and discolored. i'd like to refinish it. and need advice. Should I sand
it down, and if so, how can I match the period-finish, which is smooth, but not
shiny on the top?  I do appreciate your help!

Answer
Hi Anne
Nice to hear from you.
Throw the sandpaper away...do not touch your cabinet with it.
If you attempt to refinish the damaged parts without doing the entire piece you will have a mess.
First check to make sure the veneer is well secured.
I'll bet its not. This type of veneer damage is very common. I never figured out why it always occurs on the bottom edges of furniture.
In any case it will need glue forced under any loose areas, then take 2 pieces of wood and clamp firmly on either side of the glued areas. This will ensure the veneer stays flat. An easy fix but let me know if you do not grasp the concept. I know it can be hard following this type of instruction. I like pictures LOL
Let the glue dry and then remove the wood and clamps.
Often you will need to tap the wood with a hammer as there could be glue seepage and your wood clamping blocks stick to the cabinet.
If there is glue on the exterior where you do not want it, it can be gently scraped off or removed with a rag dipped in warm vinegar.
Just make sure all glue is removed from the area or the next step will fail.
Next I would try one of those wax filler sticks to fill the chipped edges.
Here is a site that tells you about them.
http://www.briwax.co.uk/products/waxsticks.html
After that a waxing of the area.
Hope this helps and get back to me if this is not 100% clear.
Good Luck and great question
Regards
Eileen