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Collectibles-General (Antiques)/Antique sleigh restoration
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Question
I am trying to restore an antique sleigh. It has some gold leafing on it that is flaking off.Does real gold leaf flake? the gold seems to have a shiny area around it that is flaking also but the paint under it is not flaking. Should I take the gold leafing off since it is flaking? The sleigh has a manufacturer's plate that says Hotchkin Carriage Company which burned down in Syracuse, NY in 1888.
Hi Judy
Nice to hear from you.
In all cases where we repair these wonderful old items, the idea is to preserve what is there.
So to answer your question "should I take the gold off?"
The answer is no but any loose pieces will likely fall off in any event.
And yes real gold leaf will flake but its likely not real gold leaf on your sleigh.
Sounds like a great project.
Regards
Eileen
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| Comment | Thanks, Judy | ||
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Answers by Expert:
- Michael Andrew Wilson
- robert klein
- Fred Taylor
- Rodger Knutson
- Eileen Cronk
- Bill & Jan Berning
- Irene Schwall
- Barbara K. Acchino
- Rex Ransome
- Larry Bieza
- Anderson's Restorations-Rob Anderson
- DARWIN D. BEARLEY
- Chad Boekelheide
- The Wicker WomanŽ-Cathryn Peters
- David Burritt
- Bob Wiley
- Marc A. Hess
- Tom Novitski
- Marvin D. Miller
- Robert Barnes
- Frederic Rozier
- G Zimmerman
- Jack Freund
- Russell Barnes
- Dennis Wolbach
- David Silver
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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