Collectibles-General (Antiques)/old choir chair

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Expert: - 4/18/2010


Question

Choir Chair
This chair has come apart but I have all the pieces but one dowl on the back.
It is also missing the seat.... Cain  I beleive. On the back there is a book holder.
Is it worth having it repaired? Does it have a collectible value? I was useing it to hold a pot of flowers.
Thank you for your time. Laura

Answer
Hi Laura
Nice to hear from you.
I must be honest and tell you its will not be worth it to have someone restore this chair.
Its in pretty bad shape.
But why not get some glue and glue up the top so it does not fall apart and continue using it for a lovely planter.
If the chair has many holes around the seat area it was real caning.
This alone costs a lot of money to have done. The caners (if you can find one) actually charge per hole. But its a skill not many have.
Laura I am not saying the chair could not be restored. It could, but will cost likely three times what its worth to have done.
Great question
Regards
Eileen  

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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