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Question
Hi,
I just acquired a set of antique chairs (one regular chair, one with a rocker, and a double sized chair).
I would like to restore them, and I understand that making as little changes as possible helps maintain the value.
The cushions do not look salvageable. There are some burlap type straps and felt-like cloth that are under the seats to hold the cushions up. The cloth looks quite old and as if it was hand sewn. If I completely replace the straps, cloth and cushions does this devalue the pieces?
I could probably salvage the straps, but the cloth/felt looks pretty gross to me. If it doesn't devalue the piece, I would like to just redo the whole seat portion.
Thanks for your time!
My opinion has always been if you have chairs or whatever that you can't sit in, the value to me is less then if they are restored. If the burlap and felt is that bad, replace it. You might consider saving the old cushions so you can show what was in them in the first place. If you are planning to keep the set, restore the upholstery using something that fits the style and period and then just enjoy it.
Rob
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Anderson's Restorations-Rob Anderson
Expertise
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.
Experience
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.
Organizations
Past president of a historical museum
Publications
Antique Shoppe Newspaper, Yadkin Valley Living Magazine, Antique Lynks Newspaper
Education/Credentials
Seminole HS in Seminole FL class of 1965 and some college before entering service. US Army
Awards and Honors
Asked to demonstrate seat weaving at the NC Musuem of History, Paleigh, for 3 days. Demonstrated at the Mountain Heritage Festival, Sparta,NC.
Past/Present Clients
Restoring 35 pieces of wicker for the Governors Mansion, Raleigh,NC paid through private funding.
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