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Collectibles-General (Antiques)/french country desk
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Question
Hi there,
I have just purchased a french country writing desk from the early
1800's. There is a split going across the top of the desk between
two pieces of wood. I am wondering if there is a way I can repair
this myself without damaging it, or if I need to take it to a restorer.
Thanks for your help & have a great day!
Hi Jennifer
Nice to hear from you.
This split can certainly be repaired and its a repair I have done on occasion.
The top must be removed, then the side panels removed and the broken piece glued and clamped. If the piece is thick enough a few biscuit joins ensure the piece will never break again.
Now having said that Kelly, if you are not proficient at this type of work, then get it done by someone else.
If this desk is truly from the early 1800's you should not tamper with it and a true restoration will call for special glue to be used and probably not the biscuit joins LOL.
Hope this helps and 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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