Expert: Anderson's Restorations-Rob Anderson - 6/15/2008

Question
Hi, I have found at a yard sale a cavalier chest which is lovely, but in sore need of repair. The veneer is chipped and splitting and the original varnish or stain has been sanded down in some areas. I would really like to be able to restore this piece to its original beauty, but I'm not sure how to go about it. Also we found stamped on the bottom the code of 201-WAL3221, I was wondering if you could tell me what this code means. I would appreciate any info you can give me.
Thanks

Answer
Thanks for your question,
 The numbers are probably a stock/item number. The only way to know what they mean would be to have access to the manufactures records, if they exist.
 It would take a book to help you with the veneer repairs but here goes. First, you will need some veneer to replace the missing pieces. Check with some woodworking shops in your area or passably a restoration shop might be able to help you with some small pieces. If you can't find anything, contact me and I may have what you need and send you some.
 Next, using carpenters wood glue, glue down any loose pieces using something like a thin knife to slide the glue under the loose pieces. You can also use the knife to remove any dried glue or dirt from under before you glue. If you don't have any clamps, place some waxed paper over the glued spots and use books or bricks or whatever to put pressure of these areas till the glue sets. Once the top is done, you can lay the chest on its side and do the same procedure.When all the veneer is glued back down, use an Xacto knife or some type of razor knife to "square up" the chipped area and make a patch piece to fit in them.Make sure you remove any excess glue as you go to save work later. Use the same procedure to glue them in place. When everything is good and set, lightly sand the areas where you put in patches.Now get some stripper and steel wool and start stripping the chest and while your stripping, try to put some of the "goop" that's coming off over the new veneer. This will help to blend it with the old. When finished stripping, light sand with 320 and add any more color to the patches if necessary, then apply your finish. I would recommend any of the wipe-on types. Just follow directions and dispose of any rags safely.
 Hope this helps and contact me again if you have more questions,
 Rob Anderson
www.andersonsrestorations.com