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Collectibles-General (Antiques)/cavalier cedar chest /bench

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Expert: - 5/1/2007


Question
I found a beautiful cavalier cedar chest that has a back bar,it is painted red and part of the thin outer wood is broken.also a weak leg.I'm not sure if the thin outer is venier?Can this chest be repaired?  

Answer
Hi Eva
Nice to hear from you.
Yes the chest can be repaired.
The outer wood will be thin veneer but this will need a pro to fix unless of course you plan to repaint the chest.
If you plan to restore it to its original wood, then all the paint will need to be stripped off.
If you paint it, wood filler can disguise the missing veneer if done correctly.
I have often done this, but it will need a few applications of filler with sanding in between to get a perfect result.
And any loose veneer should be glued down. not removed prior to filling the missing areas.
Hope this helps. A great project to do.
Kindest Regards
Eileen

Collectibles-General (Antiques)

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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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