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Collectibles-General (Antiques)/Cleaning claws on a duncan Phife table

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Question
How do I clean the claws on a Duncan Phife Table.  I am refinshing the table.  the claws appear to be metal of some sort.  I'm new at this.  any help you can give will be most appreciated.  Thanks.

Answer
Hi Marlyn
Nice to hear from you.
I usually rub the metal with fine steel wool.
Sometimes the metal will not come off the wood but paint stripper will not harm this metal.
I often soak metal furniture parts in paint stripper if someone has painted over it.
The stripper seems to take dirt and all off the metal so don't be afraid to try that even if no paint is present.
And congratulations on starting this wonderful hobby. You will find it very rewarding.
Great Question
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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