Expert: Eileen Cronk - 8/15/2007

Question
I purchased an upright piano that is nearly 100 years old.  The finish is stained, scratched and water marked. There also appears to be areas where something painted has been rubbed up against it and the paint has come off on it.  It isn't museum quality but it is a nice piece.  I am pretty handy with furniture (painting, staining etc) and think I can fix it up . . . I am just not sure what to do with out ruining it.  I guess it is the old question of do I or don't I refinish?

Answer
Hi Donna
Nice to hear from you.
This is a great topic.
By all means go ahead and refinish your piano, but don't paint it.
Donna these old pianos are not worth a great deal, but I have always found the craftsmanship in them is outstanding.
And I love them all.
I have refinished several of them over the years and surprisingly its not that big a challenge.
Many of the parts come right off and can be worked on from sawhorses.
If you need my instructions for refinishing let me know.
And I would sure love to see a picture of the piano before you start. Just curious what the wood is and the style.
Kindest Regards
Eileen