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Collectibles-General (Antiques)/Maddox Mahogany Secretary Desk

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Expert: - 5/4/2010


Question
I purchased a Maddox Mahogany Secretary Desk and the thin wood on the glass doors is coming off and looks like the top vaneer has been peeled off.  What would be the best way to repair this?

Answer
Hi Annette
Nice to hear from you.
As long as you have all the pieces (if any are totally off), the veneer can be glued back on.
If this is a valuable desk then they use hide glue but if not, ordinary carpenters glue works fine.
Have clamps and clamping blocks ready to hold the veneer firmly in place while the glue dries.
You apply the glue under every bit of the veneer. Many times there are loose layers (sounds like yours), so make sure the glue is applied under all layers.
If I had a picture of the damage I could be more specific. I hope the underlying wood is flat .
If it happens the wood is curved by design, then take the door to a shop to be fixed because curved clamping blocks are needed.
Get back if needed
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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