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Collectibles-General (Antiques)/refinishing small cabinent

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Expert: - 5/4/2008


Question

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This cabinet was my grandmother's, she was a seamstress and kept her threads, needles etc. in it but on the front of the drawers the words CELEBRATE, PERFUMED, KID GLOVES and MATHERS etched into the wood. Could you tell me anything about this piece? And how to restore it, as you can see it needs work. I just got a quote for $750.00 to refinish it and before it send that kind of money I would like to know if it is worth it.
Thank you
Dotty

Answer
Hi Dotty
Nice to hear from you.
What a shame this piece was painted.
Did the person who gave the quote state wether he could save the paint that will be in the etched letters?
At least I'm pretty certain the letters will be painted as well as etched.
So first check that.
Its painstaking to try to save something like this and if you brought the piece to me I would not even attempt it.
The cabinet was obviously used in a store.
My guess would be around the late 1800's to the early 1900's but thats only my guess.
It appears to me that there is only one layer of paint to remove and you can bet it was painted over the original finish which makes it easier to remove.
$750.00 seems excessive to remove one coat of paint, but like I say perhaps more is involved here that I know.
So do some checking with the man and nothing wrong with a price negotiation.
Kind Regards
Eileen
    Questioner's Rating
    Rating(1-10)Knowledgeability = 8Clarity of Response = 10Politeness = 10
    CommentThank you for reply, I haven't done much refinishing but I think I might try this


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Eileen Cronk

Expertise

I can answer most questions about the repairing and refinishing of all your old furniture items (the things we call antiques). I can also give you advice on what wood items to choose and what wood items to avoid at auctions, flea markets etc. I DO NOT give appraisals on antiques as this is not my field of expertise.

Experience

I have been repairing, refinishing and of course buying old furniture for the past 30 years. On any given weekend I can be found at auction sales or flea markets searching out a good buy. I have taken several courses in this area over the years, but I find "Hands On" learning to be the best teacher. I can help you avoid the pitfalls and problems of this wonderful rewarding craft.

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