Expert: Eileen Cronk - 6/17/2008

Question
Hello,

I am on the hunt for a quality mid-century or Danish modern credenza or
sideboard. I have been looking for solid wood pieces for the sake of durability
and ease in refinishing. However, I'm finding that a lot of pieces in this
category are finished in a wood veneer. I've always assumed that veneer
makes a piece "lesser" quality. Is this truly the case, or have I been passing up
great bargains thinking that veneer is not good enough? What types of wood
from this era should I be looking out for? Thank you!

Answer
Hi Selena +3
Nice to hear from you.
Actually veneering is an art in its own right.
Some of the loveliest old pieces that I have seen were veneered.
And refinishing veneer is no different than refinishing solid wood.
The problem with veneer is that if its neglected..by that I mean placed where it will dry out or placed in damp conditions then the veneer will lift.
If veneer is left in this lifted state too long it just cannot be glued back perfectly as it expands.
Veneer pieces are not to be considered lesser quality at all.
Funny enough oak at one time was considered a sub wood and in fact I have seen pieces made of solid oak covered in veneer.
Tastes change over the years and the species of wood readily available change over the years.
Fred Taylor (our American furniture expert on this) site told me about the Eastlake walnut era.
This was a time when walnut was readily available and used for furniture.
I am happy to own such a piece that Fred identified for me.
When walnut became harder to get then we saw a lot of Eastlake style furniture made from other hardwoods like ash and oak.
Now your question of "what type of wood from this era should I be looking for?"
So around the middle of the last century is the 1940's 50's and 60's.
The quality of the furniture came down a notch but in my opinion well made pieces can still be found.
Certainly a lot of veneers were used namely walnut and cherry and birch, but I see solid pieces mostly of maple and birch and cherry. Not a lot of oak and ash from that time though.
But I am in Canada and it could be different than where you are.
I would haunt the action houses. Get to know the folks there.
They are a wealth of info for those willing to listen.
And if you see a veneered piece you love, just make sure its in good condition and you won't go wrong.
Great question
Regards
Eileen