Expert: Eileen Cronk - 3/29/2005

Question
I have my Grandmother's cedar chest.  It is stamped inside with Stewart Cedar Chests, Newark, Ohio with the date 1941.  There are two deep scratched in the top but otherwise in excellent shape.  Q-1; would this be considered an antique?  Q-2 should I attempt to repair the scratch or have it professionally done?  If you have any suggestions on repairs I'd appreciate them.

Thanks

Thanks

Answer
Hi Jim
Nice to hear from you.
Your 1941 cedar chest would not be considered an antique, but I would certainly consider it to be a wonderful heirloom if it belonged to your Grama.
A genuine antique is 100 years old or older.
Yes I would attempt this repair.
Get a wax melt stick from the hardware store in the color that closely matches the existing finish. These are available at most hardware stores in the paint section.
You can overfill the scratches then use a razor blade to scrape it level.
Then a buff with super fine steel wool and a waxing with a good paste wax.
Jim if you are not happy with this repair, no harm has been done to the chest, and at that point you can consider a pro.
I think you will be able to do this.
Regards
Eileen