Expert: Eileen Cronk - 7/24/2007

Question
We have a Governor Winthrop desk (circa 1930) that is structurally sound but needs refinishing. Where do we start and is it best to get this done professionally? The large skeleton key is missing but I've seen antique skeleton keys advertised on various web sites for $5 - $7. Would a 3-1/2" skeleton key fit this type of desk? Thank you for any help you can provide.

Answer
Hi Barb
Nice to hear from you.
Barb while I always try to encourage folks to spread their wings and do their own refinishing, if you have never attempted this before I think this desk is a bit too much for a first project.
But certainly OK for a third or fourth LOL.
So if there is any small items you could start with to get the feel of it, it would help.
Here are my stripping and refinishing instructions..

The first thing you must do is assemble the material to do the job.
The stripper is the most important item.
The stripper I use is my Home Hardware house brand, but I think that you would not have Home Hardware if you are in the states.
I am hoping you could have CIRCA brand paint and varnish remover there.

MATERIAL LIST For the stripping stage.
1 gallon stripper
6 boxes of Bull Dog steel wool in medium grade.
One 3 inch oil based paint brush.
Rubber gloves (like you do dishes with)
An empty large coffee can. (for the stripper)
A couple of old tooth brushes.
Lots of old rags (I like t-shirts or cotton but for this first stage whatever you have)
Lots of newspaper to protect the garage floor
LOTS OF VENTILATION
That's all you need to get started…not much is it?
The stripper will be the most expensive item on the list..In Canada it runs around $25.00 a gallon. The stain and finish will only be around $20.00
HERES WHAT YOU DO...
Remove all handles and hardware
Work in sections.
Brush on the stripper with the brush. Stripper will quit working if it dries, so keep it wet till the finish softens.
Then take a rag and wipe this mess off.
Then another coat of stripper, rag off again, then while the wood is still wet, take the steel wool and rub with the grain till the wood is nice and clean.
Often another application of stripper is needed depending on the finish, but you will know.
Use the toothbrush in crevices.
Thats all there is to it ...move to another section and continue.
No other prep is necessary...and DO NOT SAND
When the stripping is complete, stain with Minwax stain applied with a rag, then 3 coats of low lustre tung oil also applied with a rag.
Barb if you remove the locking device on this desk (its easy..just a couple of screws), and take it to a local locksmith, he will key it for you.
Its not really a skeleton key and I am pretty sure a true skeleton key just will not work.
The locks and keys have never been a problem for me as my brother was a locksmith and saw to the locks for me.
Please let me know if anything is not 100% clear.
Good Luck
Eileen