Collectibles-General (Antiques)/old iron bed

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Expert: - 7/19/2008


Question
I have inherited my great grandmothers old iron beds for my daughter.  I want to keep the old finish on them (they have simple faux wood graining)  I lead tested them and they seem ok.  What should I seal them with.  They need something to keep the old finish intact.  Any other concerns about the old finish I should know about?  They are probably early 1900 I would guess.

Answer
Hi Lynne
Nice to hear from you.
There would be nothing wrong with sealing the beds with a clear coat of spray lacquer.
Not a high gloss.
The beds will have to be super clean before doing this.
In this case just a good wipe with a rag dipped in a bit of mineral spirits (varsol in Canada).
And a test spray on the back perhaps is always a good idea.
No other concerns if you have checked for lead.
Kind Regards
Eileen

Collectibles-General (Antiques)

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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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