Collectibles-General (Antiques)/wicker sleigh

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Expert: - 12/4/2010


Question
I have an antique wicker one horse sleigh which we display at the holidays. Over the years the wicker has become very fragile (brittle and loose feeling) It is stored in the top of the barn when not displayed. Is there anything I can treat this sleigh with to maintain it condition. I currently wet it hoping the wicker will swell with limited success. Thanks Craig  

Answer
You're doing the right thing with the water but countering it with your choice of storage. The top of a barn or an attic is the hottest place for any type of furniture. I would suggest you use the water again and try to find a better storage place. If you use the water and it still seems very brittle, it may just be to far gone. The only resort left would be to coat it with a spar varnish to try and hold it together as long as possible. Use spar varnish because it stays a little "pliable" and won't force it to break like some other finishes.
 Rob

Collectibles-General (Antiques)

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We can answer questions about wicker repair and restoration, chair seating[caning-rush-splint-danish cord] furniture refinishing and repair, brass and copper polishing, veneering and veneer repair. WE WILL NOT GIVE APPRAISALS or answer "WHATS IT WORTH" questions. If you want a value, contact us for our current costs for this service.

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Just entered our 40th year doing this work. We started in Fl and have been in NC for the last 15 years. We have a web site www.andersonsrestorations.com where we have alot of information about us and a blog at www.andersons-restorations.blogspot.com where we have many before and after photos of our work.We also are experienced in Fiat Jolly Seats and other automobile seating and work on Horse Drawn Carriage pieces.

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