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Collectibles-General (Antiques)/Duncan Fife table/restoration
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Question
My aunt just gave me her Duncan Fife dining room table and six chairs. Several of the chairs need work- arms broken or loose- and I'd like to replace the seat fabric. The table is in decent condition, a few scratches and a mark from a pan being set on top. I'm debating between restoration and just forgetting it and having the thing painted. Once an item is restored, what does that do to the value? I guess I'm wondering if having it restored will restore the value or not?
Hi Amanda
Nice to hear from you.
Certainly try to avoid painting.
The repairs sound minor in nature, and replacing the fabric on the seats is minor too.
The only thing that decreases the value of this type of factory made furniture is "improperly done" refinishing.
Unfortunately over the years I have seen many lovely old pieces ruined by the refinishers hand.
So if you choose to restore the set to its original beauty it will not decrease its value but enhance it if done correctly.
Thanks for a great question.
Kindest Regards Eileen
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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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