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Collectibles-General (Antiques)/cleaning Hitchcock chairs

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Expert: - 3/6/2010


Question
I don't clean them because over time I have tried to  the stain came off the chairs. I only use Howard Feed-N-Wax wood preserver.  I am so frustrated that I almost want to sell them. Can you please tell what to do?  Thanks Maria

Answer
Hi Maria
Get a small can of mineral spirits (called varsol in Canada).
Dip a clean rag in the spirits and do a test by rubbing the wood with it.
Do this on an area that won't show.
Mineral spirits will remove the wax and oil buildup that seems to have happened here.
It will not remove the finish.
After that, use only a paste wax once a year.
This Howards recommends using it every month. Not needed at all.
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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