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Question
I purchased an complete 1910 Berkey and Fay bedroom set at an estate sale. It is made of burl walnut. The finish on all of the pieces is very crazed and dark. Will I ruin it if I strip it and revarnish? Any suggestions on how to do this? Or should I leave it alone.
Hi Lynda
Nice to hear from you.
I get asked this question the most.
And I think if you read your words the answer is actually there.."The finish on all of the pieces is very crazed and dark".
While its true Lynda that we can destroy a very old antiques value by stripping the finish, in this case its not so.
I will also suggest that you will increase this sets value if the job is done properly.
If this set was taken to a refinishing shop, the finish could be reamalgamated, but this takes special skill and almost as long as stripping.
My only suggestion on how to go about this is "the correct way"..LOL..so do you need detailed instructions for this?
I would be happy to supply them if you get back to me.
Also would be helpful to know if you have ever attempted this work before.
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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