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Collectibles-General (Antiques)/bowed wood veneer
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Question
I have a secretary given to me by my grandmother. The wood trim on the glass doors is bowed. I guess its a veneer and is very thin. Someone told me to dampen it and tape it flat. It also has some finish missing. Any ideas?
Thanks
Vicky
Hi Vicky
Nice to hear from you.
The veneer can be glued back, and then pressure will have to be applied until the glue sets.
I cannot guess what wetting would do, but I do know if the existing glue is "Hyde glue", it can often be reactivated with heat.
I have done this by placing a cloth pad over the loose area and applying heat with an iron.
In order to help you with repairing the damaged finish I would have to know the existing finish, but you could try gently smoothing the area with very fine steel wool and then applying a stain in the existing color then a bit of tung oil over this (just a thin coat with a rag to seal the stain), then an overall good waxing.
This process at least will not do any harm to the piece.
Hope this helps
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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