Collectibles-General (Antiques)/Questions Answered by Expert Anderson's Restorations-Rob Anderson

Subject	Date Asked
Antique Baby stroller tires	1/28/2012
Q: I am trying to restore an old heywood wakefield stroller for my daughter, the hard rubber tires are ... A: There are no replacement tires available for the buggy wheels are far as I know. You can use some of ...
Carved wood rabbit head on doll buggy	10/25/2011
Q: Have an old wicker doll buggy with the front being flat and a large hand carved wood rabbit head ... A: I'm sorry to say, without close inspection, that your item is a reproduction item, not a rare ...
wicker chair lrg	10/11/2011
Q: I picked up a great wicker chair abandoned at a dump site. One leg is about 2" shorter than the ... A: You didn't say if the leg is rattan or wood but the repair is about the same.Peel back the wrap as ...
sea grass furniture	10/7/2011
Q: I have three pieces of sea grass furniture that requires a small amount of repair in the wicker ... A: It looks like you have some very nice items. I've only seen a few pieces of seagrass furniture as ...
dresser drawer pulls	10/6/2011
Q: I have an antique dresser that my grandmother had painted. I know this belonged to my great ... A: I understand your frustration. I have a few suggestions.Look one line at companys that have a large ...
wicker pie cooler	10/2/2011
Q: I just got this given to me yesterday and told it was an antique pie cooler...Is it? and if so could ... A: These were made around the turn of the century up till the 20s? I can't tell what the material is ...
Mersman table	9/9/2011
Q: I purchased an oval, glass-topped Mersman table at a yard sale. What's the best way to restore it? ... A: It would take a book to cover all the answers to this question. If the scratches are light, that ...
6 Chairs	9/3/2011
Q: .. I like the format of the website and how each expert has their own profile so you can address ... A: You have a set of Hitchcock style chairs with a fibre rush seat.They are very nice chairs and ...
Dixie mahogany writing desk	8/15/2011
Q: I have a Dixie desk that I want to sell,I have know idea what it is worth. It has the Dixie name in ... A: I cannot give you the answers you're looking for. I don't answer "What's it Worth" questions or ...
baby buggy	8/9/2011
Q: I purchased an antique baby buggy for my grandchild and I would like to clean it up as best I can ... A: You are correct on the two types of wicker carriages. Your's appears to be "Fibre Reed" which is a ...
baby carriage	8/6/2011
Q: My family recently found an old baby carriage in our mom's attic. It has a canvas body with metal ... A: The only information I have on F.A. Whitney shows only reed but I can see where they might have used ...
Wicker stroller	8/5/2011
Q: I have a wicker stroller made by the Rattan Manufacturing Co of New Haven CT. The only thing I can ... A: Yes they have value but I won't give a value on this forum. You can sell it on ebay or another ...
replacement medallion for cedar chest	7/11/2011
Q: i recently bought a rood cedar chest that is missing one of the medallions/discs on the front. here ... A: To my knowledge, there is no supplier for these items for specific furniture items. The only ...
Table Style	6/29/2011
Q: I have asked several shops if they can identify the leg style, no one seams to know...I know its ... A: Unless you have a label to tell the maker, it will be hard to identify the leg style. This table is ...
refinishing a duncan phyfe table	6/21/2011
Q: I have a duncan phyfe table with mahogany veneer on the table top that has been abused with a 2 inch ... A: First off you want to do the veneer repair. Start by cutting a patch that will fit in the missing ...
old wicker couch and chair	6/19/2011
Q: I recently purchased an old wicker couch/chair. However, I think it is what's called paper-wrapped ... A: What you probably need are some drop in springs. I have attached a pic of a set. The chair would ...
antique doll buggy	5/30/2011
Q: I have my doll buggy that is between 70 and 75 yrs. old. The wicker is brittle to the touch, most ... A: If the cane material is that brittle and the tires are bad, I'm sorry to say it will probably cost ...
Depreciation	5/25/2011
Q: My husband and I own an upholstery shop in Texas. On several occasions I come across very beautiful ... A: This a very interesting question and could probably make a small book to answer but here goes. ...
antique baby strollers	5/24/2011
Q: I hope you can help me I bought a antique baby carriage/stroller. I cant find anything on it and ... A: The only information I have on the company is the Gendron Iron Wheel Co in Toledo, Ohio. Est @1873. ...
Can I replace a glass top to deco table?	4/14/2011
Q: I have acquired an art deco smoker's table. The glass top was shattered during delivery. The rim of ... A: I can't tell for the pic, but the band looks like a stamped band that would slide down over the top ...
Wicker doll buggy	3/30/2011
Q: I have a wicker doll buggy that belonged to my aunt. It is probably around the 1900s. If I am ... A: Good idea on the hood. It may have been an "oil cloth" on the top. My catalogs are all older with ...
Refinishing bow front chest	3/25/2011
Q: I want to have this chest refinished and I don't know what kind of hardware is appropriate for this ... A: I would suggest you look on the web for similar items and see what type of hardware they have on ...
Antique table - date	3/21/2011
Q: recently I purchased what I believed to be an antique table. The table was one of many items ... A: It's impossible to give any information on a table based on the wheels. They were made buy a company ...
roll top desk	3/12/2011
Q: Im trying to identify the desk, it has scallop and dowel dove tail drawers. also what is the center ... A: Your "C" roll desk was made in the 40-50s by the truckloads. It would be impossible to come up with ...
Globe Wernicke - writing desk	3/7/2011
Q: I have my grandmothers 5 piece stacking book case with writing desk. 2 units are D 8-1/2,grade 299. ... A: You can find "blank" keys from some suppliers and try and file it to fit or go to a flea market and ...
old chair caning, corn stalk?	3/6/2011
Q: I have some chairs that are over 150 years old. The seats are caned but I was told by my mother ... A: I would suspect your chairs are "rush" and not cane. I haven't run across any done with corn stalks, ...
repair for this year and make of rocker	2/8/2011
Q: Just got this at a garage sale. It looks to be fairly old. I'd like to know how old it is, and ... A: Your rocker is a fibre wicker item. Fibre was used starting in @ 1900 up to the end of the great ...
old piano finishes	1/28/2011
Q: !. do you know how the old ebonized finish on Steinways was done? 2. what would you suggest for ... A: Most of the old piano finishes were a polished black lacquer. There are several different ways to ...
Mahogany Lamp table.	1/6/2011
Q: Good Afternoon, I was given a table that is solid mahogany.The table is app.24inches around it has ... A: First I would ask you email me a couple of pics of the table so I can see what we are talking about. ...
wicker sleigh	12/4/2010
Q: I have an antique wicker one horse sleigh which we display at the holidays. Over the years the ... A: You're doing the right thing with the water but countering it with your choice of storage. The top ...
chair seat	12/2/2010
Q: The chair is in real good condition but it has a caned seat that is coming apart and has a hole. ... A: If it's hand cane I would seek a caner to do it. Many well intended people have started chairs but ...
fiber chair seat replacement	11/29/2010
Q: I have a nice little Victorian chair which has lost its center caning, and I cannot afford a leather ... A: Most of those "replacement" seats are not much bigger then the area they need to cover. You don't ...
Furniture key	10/18/2010
Q: I recently bought a small Maddox Table slant top desk (about 26" wide at the bottom drawer). It is ... A: This is a hard question to answer easily. They best way to get a key would be to remove on of the ...
stripping antique wicker....lead paint removal	10/13/2010
Q: I have 2 lovely early 20th century wicker chairs...A "reputable" local "restorer" repainted or ... A: Your welcome for the advice. She may be right in your area that there are "laws" covering the lead ...
recently aquired wicker	10/13/2010
Q: I just picked up a box slam full of beautiful little wicker baskets and what not. Most of them are ... A: The baskets can be cleaned in two ways, you may want to use both.You can wash them in the kitchen ...
stripping antique wicker....	10/12/2010
Q: I have 2 lovely early 20th century wicker chairs...A "reputable" local "restorer" repainted or ... A: I'm hard pressed to comment on someone else's work. You don't say if the wicker items are reed or ...
antique wicker baby buggy	9/29/2010
Q: I am going to attempt to restore an antique wicker baby buggy. After removing the lining fabric, I ... A: I always use an oil base paint on wicker. You should thin the paint so it has the consistency of ...
antique dining chair seat upholstery	9/24/2010
Q: My question is similar to one you previously addressed. I have antique dining chairs with only a ... A: You are on the right track. I would suggest that instead of webbing strips, us a piece of burlap ...
Restoring Pair of Old Chairs	9/19/2010
Q: I just purchased these chairs and love them very much. The bottom of one of them is unraveling, and ... A: As far as the wood part of the chairs goes, you can touch up any worn places with a matching stain, ...
old cigar/smoking stand	9/5/2010
Q: I have an older cigar/smoking stand that has some brass or copper pieces missing. One of the cigar ... A: You can't. They stopped making parts for 100 year old pieces 80 years ago, Contrary to popular ...
antique chair	8/30/2010
Q: I just acquired a set of antique chairs (one regular chair, one with a rocker, and a double sized ... A: My opinion has always been if you have chairs or whatever that you can't sit in, the value to me is ...
rocking chair age	8/8/2010
Q: i recently obtained a rocking chair with the imatation stamped leather(cardboard like) circle in the ... A: These types of seats started to be used right at the turn of the century up till the 40s. They were ...
john wanamaker desk	8/5/2010
Q: who used to work at wanamakers an old desk. it was actully a desk the people who worked there used ... A: I don't give appraisals on this site. If the desk was used by someone special, such as John ...
warped veneer	8/2/2010
Q: rob, a friend brought me a hutch that was her grandmothers literally in pieces. it had been sitting ... A: One of the ways to try and get it flat again is to place the top on the wet grass real early in the ...
P DERBY &CO Dining room chairs.	7/12/2010
Q: I Have a set of 4 That I got for free.. some damaged leg braces.. the sticker says p derby and co ... A: The seat needed is pressed cane or sheet cane. It depends on the prices where you live but a seat ...
P DERBY &CO Dining room chairs.	7/10/2010
Q: I Have a set of 4 That I got for free.. some damaged leg braces.. the sticker says p derby and co ... A: The best advice I can share is to do only what can be reversed. In other words, if you want to ...
What are these wicker pieces?	6/3/2010
Q: I am trying to find out what these matching wicker pieces are. Maybe the matching ends of a chaise ... A: I'm not sure either without a close look. I would think they may have been part of a daybed or ...
Stomps Burkhardt chairs	5/24/2010
Q: My husband purchased this dining "set" at an auction this past weekend. The chairs have a leather ... A: Many years ago, one could buy these seats at the local hardware store to replace/cover broken caned ...
Antique Baby Stroller	5/23/2010
Q: I inherited this stroller from my father. I believe it has been in my family approximately 100 ... A: I have a picture of a wicker cart similar to yours made @1930. As far as the rest of the information ...
Antique Sofa	5/12/2010
Q: I am trying to ID this sofa in order to do more research on it and the time period. It was given to ... A: Look for signs of old stuffing and marks on the frame. They may be roman numerials or just a series ...
cane chair seat repair	4/25/2010
Q: I recently bought two pressed back matching chairs and on the seat of one there is a small "tear." I ... A: Yes, they are pressed or prewoven cane. The small slit could be repaired IF the cane is not brittle. ...
rocking chair identification and restoration	4/18/2010
Q: sorry but I forgot to attach the picture of the chair, I'm new at this, so I will start over. I ... A: Well, the price was right. The seat is probable on of the fiber types made to look like leather but ...
White Furniture Night Table	4/13/2010
Q: It says lot #623 on the back, and the wood is indicated as butternut. I have researched this item, ... A: You can find the history of the WHITE FURNITURE CO on the net but as for your specific item, you ...
wicker sewing table \ cabinet?	3/27/2010
Q: I am unable to find info on this sewing table? cabinet? Is it a Heywood and Wakefield ? ... A: In the Haywood-Wakefield catalog of 1898-1899, there is a drawing of the "#6426 Oblong Work Basket" ...
lane cedar chest	3/27/2010
Q: I have inherited a lane cedar chest which I estimate to be about 75 to 85 years old. The top is ... A: Poly thinned down is just using whatever material you get and thinning it with the proper thinner so ...
Pram (buggy) wheels	3/26/2010
Q: We have lovely old victorian buggy good condition but missing its wheels. Have searched many sites ... A: Please don't pitch it!!You didn't say if the style was for wire wheels but I assume it is do to the ...
lane cedar chest	3/25/2010
Q: I have inherited a lane cedar chest which I estimate to be about 75 to 85 years old. The top is ... A: You can clean the chest with mineral spirits using a Scotch-Brite pad. This will remove the dirt and ...
Anique rocking chair	3/24/2010
Q: I have what seems to be a 'Boston Rocker', after reading a reply from Fred Taylor just bnow. But my ... A: I do not do appraisals or "what's it worth" questions on this forum as stated on my bio page. You ...
Anique rocking chair	3/23/2010
Q: I have what seems to be a 'Boston Rocker', after reading a reply from Fred Taylor just bnow. But my ... A: Many styles like this were first made in one area and later expanded to other parts of the country. ...
love seat id???	3/17/2010
Q: Could you please help me id this love seat. we believe it to be around 50 years old but there is not ... A: You have an Eastlake style loveseat. Eastlake was made in the late 1800s. Reproductions were made in ...
rocking chair repair.	3/11/2010
Q: I have a Thonet Bentwood Rocking chair that has a recained seat and back. It has alot of information ... A: If you have the tools and experience to do the job, go for it.Otherwise, take it to someone who can ...
SHAKER? TYPE EARLY ROCKER	3/9/2010
Q: Fred, I have a rocker that's been in the family for years. Our bunch goes back to NY (City and up ... A: First, I'm not Fred, Your rocker is a Shaker style but these types of rockers have been made ...
childs table & chairs	3/1/2010
Q: I bought a green childs table and 2 chairs and the label says South Bend toy Mfg South Bend Ind. I ... A: I don't know what information I can provide or what your looking for.The only way to find ...
restoring color to faded wicker	2/28/2010
Q: I have 2 older (unpainted) wicker/ bammboo/ rattan? chairs & table that are extremely sun faded. I ... A: What looks like happened is that the finish coat has worn off letting the wicker fade. You can ...
old rocker	2/27/2010
Q: Here is a pic of an old rocker I have. Would like to know the age of it...was thinking early 1900s. ... A: I think your right on the age. It needs to be restored and any materials replaced. I'm not sure if ...
Baby carriages	2/26/2010
Q: I have a F. A. Whitney wicker baby carriage (perambulator) that is painted black (basket) and light ... A: As far as the color goes, carriages of this age were often ordered from a store or catalog, you ...
pair of chairs	2/25/2010
Q: I have two black and gold Oriental chairs I know very little about. The cane looks good on them. I ... A: This is a question I'm surprised no one has asked before. To care for your cane seats is very easy. ...
Antique Lord Darby	2/21/2010
Q: I have an antique two piece what I was told is called a Lord Darby. The veneer has been chipping off ... A: In MY opinion, a piece that has damage, and is properly restored is worth more then a piece that ...
rope chair	2/19/2010
Q: My mom has an old chair(early 1900's) that had a rope seat. Most of the rope is torn away. I would ... A: When you say rope, I wonder if you mean Fibre Rush.Chairs have been woven with just about everything ...
Wicker baby buggy rubber tires	2/18/2010
Q: I have a Victorian wicker baby buggy that is turn of the century I am guessing that is in great ... A: This is one of the most asked questions about carriages and the answer, sadly, is their aren't any.I ...
Pewter Safety	2/15/2010
Q: I am a collector of English pewter pub tankards/mugs, dating from the 1830's into the 20th century. ... A: Dave,that's a good question and my answer is yes and no!I wouldn't take the chance that while using ...
Antique wicker baby stroller	2/13/2010
Q: It is an upright stroller that has a retractable handle and two (2) retractable wheels. It has ... A: I have one of these also. They were made by the Withrow Manf Co. , F.A. Whitney and probably others ...
wicker porch sofa	2/3/2010
Q: I am sending a couple of photos of a wicker sofa (patio, I think) that was given to me. It is over ... A: The date is possible. I would need some other pictures to be more exact on a date. That type was ...
wicker porch sofa	2/2/2010
Q: I am sending a couple of photos of a wicker sofa (patio, I think) that was given to me. It is over ... A: You sofa is made of Rattan. Wicker is a term that covers many materials, sometimes several are used ...
Appraisal of Rocking chairs	2/2/2010
Q: I have a pair of mahogany rocking chairs with what used to be caning down he backs and under each ... A: Your rockers may have come from Germany but I belive they were made in the US. During the late 40s ...
Dining Room Suit - Thomasville Chair Co.	1/30/2010
Q: We have acquired a dining room table with chairs, it also has a buffet with it. Wondering if someone ... A: Your Duncan Phyfe style set was made in the late 40s. As far as refinishing goes, I don't think the ...
Estate Sale Rocking Chair	1/27/2010
Q: I recently purchased the attached rocking chair at an Estate Sale in the attic. The seat is composed ... A: You do have a beautiful rocker there! I would say it was made in late 1800s due to the carvings on ...
Repair Teak / Mahogany Table	1/23/2010
Q: I have an antique teak / Mahogany and Blackwood table that I would like to find out how to repair. ... A: Try, in an out of the way place, to clean with mineral spirts and a fine Scothbrite pad[also called ...
restoring a finish	1/21/2010
Q: I am not sure if you might be able to help me, I hope so. I bought an antique floor lamp. It was ... A: First, you need to get a magnet off the frig and test the lamp in several places. If it sticks, then ...
birdseye furniture	1/19/2010
Q: i am so intrigued by this type of wood. I have the opportunity to purchase a full size bed, low ... A: Most Birds-Eye furniture is veneered. The value of this type of maple makes it to expensive to use ...
book case	1/17/2010
Q: In doing some house cleaning I found the following information on the back of a book case that I ... A: Paine Furniture was in business from @1835-1935. In later years they made only bedding. Their ...
How to put leather seat replacement on chair with upholstery tacks????	1/16/2010
Q: I have an old rocker that had a leather seat. I have purchased a leather seat replacement and ... A: The leather should be trimmed to be smooth. Do not try to fold it under as it will be too thick and ...
Rubber Wheels	1/5/2010
Q: It has white rubber wheels that need to be replaced. Any idea where I would get them. 61/2" diameter ... A: To my knowledge, there is no supplier of the rubber for the old buggies. The only idea I can think ...
antique wicker furniture	12/17/2009
Q: I have 9 pieces of Karplan wicker furniture and cannot find anything on them. They are old and I ... A: The information I have shows that a company called "Karpen Brothers" was out of Chicago but there ...
Nichols & Stone Gardners Mass Rocking Chair	12/15/2009
Q: My husbands grandmother rocked him in this old rocking chair. The rocker is broken on the right ... A: I would have the rockers replaced. Do both and save the unbroken one. As for refinishing, that's a ...
Really Interesting Rocking Chair	12/12/2009
Q: I bought this rocking chair in a resale store. It has a fairly recent refinishing job. Very ... A: What you have in my opinion, is a form of what's known as "Barly Twist". It appears to be cherry or ...
Age of my clock model king	12/8/2009
Q: I have a clock model king, manufactured by the Ansonia Clock Company, New York USA, this clock have ... A: I am not an expert in clocks but I can tell you your clock was made between 1878 and 1929. Clocks ...
Martha Washington sewing cabinet	12/3/2009
Q: One of the concealed hinges on the side cover is broken. Where can I get a replacement? A: You can try several sites on line such as Van Dykes,www.vandukes.com or WSI ww.wsidistributors.com ...
Age and origin of 2 oak chairs.	12/1/2009
Q: I am very impressed with the construction, simplicity, and life that these chairs have lived. I was ... A: Used to spend some time in Noblesville, great town. Your chairs are Tiger Oak with a ...
Care of wicker casket	11/22/2009
Q: Having just purchased a wicker viewing casket from the late 1800's I am concerned about caring for ... A: The flaking material is probably the old varnish as you said.I would use a soft brush and go over it ...
Platform Rocker	11/21/2009
Q: I received a platform rocker and need to know how to restore the rush or cane. I'm not sure what you ... A: I only got the one picture but it looks like it has a splint seat and back. Years ago, they used Oak ...
Danish Modern Caned Furniture	11/18/2009
Q: I have 4 black laquered diningroom sidechairs with caned seats from the 50's. Over time the caning ... A: You have caned seats it what looks like the standard cane pattern in a "hand cane", it's hard to ...
Country French Chairs with wood beetles	11/14/2009
Q: I purchased six "Country French Chairs" and all seem to be infested with wood boring beetles. There ... A: Sorry for your problem. First, I hope you don't have them in your home if the beetles are active. ...
what type of wood is this?	11/13/2009
Q: I hope you are well...and thank you for taking time to answer my question. I have an old piece of ... A: Your china cabinet was made between the 1920s-1930s. The wood appears to be a Striped Walnut. The ...
Gliding Rocket	11/6/2009
Q: Can you identify the period for this gliding rocket chair? As you can see from this photos, I have ... A: It looks like a nice rocker. I would put it at the 1910-1930 range. These rocker were very popular ...
refinish paper wicker chair	11/2/2009
Q: I would like to refinish my grandmother's wicker armchair. I think that it is paper wicker-fibers ... A: You cannot use stripper, water or any liquid on paper wicker. It will end up as a big lump of ...
wood carved tobacco container from 1893	10/22/2009
Q: I have a wood carved tobacco container that was my fathers. It is filthy. Knowing my father he ... A: You should be able to clean the item with mineral spirits or as they call it now, paint thinner. Get ...
Wood Veneer Fix	10/18/2009
Q: The other day I sat a hot casserole dish on our wood veneer table. Though the dish was placed on a ... A: This is not an easy repair.You would need to get some rottonstone and work at the mark with it . You ...
Restoration of an old chair	10/4/2009
Q: i want to restore an old chair e.g. strip it down and re upholster never done this before so would ... A: Go Chelsea! Thanks for your question, First I must ask if the chair has any antique value ...
musty smell	9/24/2009
Q: I recently purchased a Hubley cast iron dog doorstop through ebay. The dog has quite a musty smell. ... A: Cast Iron won't usually get an odor to it. I would suspect it may have been packed with something or ...
Heywood Wakefield Baby Buggy	9/20/2009
Q: I am wondering. I bought a Weywood Wakefield Baby Buggy at an antique show. The wicker is in very ... A: The lining for this would have to be made.Many of the buggies used corduroy as the material. The ...
Widdicomb Vanity Attachment	9/19/2009
Q: I have a mahogany vanity manufactured by Widdicomb co around 1927. The top section with mirror ... A: Sorry to say that most hardware made for the furniture industry is not available. I am familiar with ...
bennington pine	9/12/2009
Q: Is this company 's furniture valuable? How can i care for it...it was in storage and has a few ... A: I'm not familiar with this brand. Scratches can be buffed out with steel wool [#0000] or sanding ...
Ferguson Furniture	9/9/2009
Q: I recently found a folding chair with a sticker in gold and burgundy with the name Ferguson. The ... A: I couldn't find any information on this company. If the label has a city, you could contact the ...
Buffet	9/2/2009
Q: I have an old buffet that looks really good except for around the door and drawer hardware it has ... A: I'm sorry to say, if they were an applied decoration, the chances of finding replacements would be ...
Post world War I rocker	9/1/2009
Q: I was given a rocking chair recently and I thought it was wicker. It is very very old it belonged ... A: This rocker is made out of Fibre which is a twisted paper that made the Lloyd Loom furniture famous. ...
Shield back chair loose	8/27/2009
Q: I have a repair to do on a shield back chair. The exterior of the back is a frame and panel. The ... A: Sounds like a nice piece. Many of these types of situations occur because of the wood shrinking over ...
Vintage high chair/fold down stroller	8/26/2009
Q: I am in the process of restoring my father's early 1900's high chair and removed a thin wooden cover ... A: The groove indicates there was a press cane seat, some call it sheet cane or prewoven cane. That is ...
Where to get good Quallity cane	8/23/2009
Q: Where can get good quality cane to continue my recaning? A: I don't know of a supplier in England but there are many suppliers on the web. I would look at The ...
American Baby Carriage Co NYC	8/23/2009
Q: My parents recently purchased an antique baby carriage. We are trying to figure an approximate age ... A: I have no information on this company. You might try to contact one of the historical groups in NY ...
rocking chair	8/12/2009
Q: We acquired this rocking chair from family home in Indiana. We would like to restore it. The ... A: You have what appears to be an Eastlake style rocker, 1872-1890 was the heyday of this style.The ...
furniture information	8/11/2009
Q: I RECENTLY GOT GIVEN THIS CHAIR WHICH I THINK IS OAK PRESSED BACK BUT NEEDS REPAIR AND HAS VARNISH ... A: If this were my chair, I would have it refinished and a new seat installed. The dark areas may not ...
Duncan Phyfe furniture	8/11/2009
Q: How can I tell if I have a real Duncan Phyfe piece or a reproduction. I have two pieces. One piece ... A: Duncan Phyfe made furniture in the early 1800s. He didn't use label or stamps on his items so one ...
Box	8/10/2009
Q: I have a vintage set of the Little Leather Library Bible, and I have it stored in this old wooden ... A: There are ways to clean the copper but I first must add that the value of the set may be reduced buy ...
vanity	8/10/2009
Q: Hope this picture is better. I just want to know anything about this vanity? Even if it is a vanity ... A: This piece is from 1920s-1930s. It did have a mirror, probably round. It most likely is veneered ...
Refinishing an older preowned chest bureau	8/9/2009
Q: I have a preowned bureau that i recently bought and would love to restore it.It has many ... A: If you want to restore it, the first thing you need to do is strip off the old finish. Many times ...
wall table & mirror from the Whitehouse	8/4/2009
Q: I purchase a home full of furniture including a wall table & mirror said to be from the Washington ... A: You might try and contact the White House and see if they have a historian on staff. There could ...
antique wicker baby buggy	7/26/2009
Q: i got a antique wicker baby buggy that was stored in my brother-in-laws mini warehouses. the thing ... A: A shop vacuum or hand-held with a soft brush will help clean, just be careful you don't "snag" any ...
identification	7/21/2009
Q: This piece was purchased at an estate sale near Boone N.C. We were told "they think it is from the ... A: I guess I need to get to Boone more often!! What a great find. Without more pictures, I would agree ...
Furniture repair	6/28/2009
Q: I have a set of wooden plantation rockers I picked up on the side of the road. The seat slats are ... A: For something like this the answer is you will never find replacement parts to purchase. These will ...
Refinishing Cedar Chests	6/28/2009
Q: I have a cedar chest that I purchased from a consignment shop. The women in the shop suggested ... A: AS far as the outside goes, get some liquid stripper and #0000 steel wool and strip off the old ...
pair of junior rocking chairs	6/24/2009
Q: these rocking chairs are labeled michigan chair co. do you know about how old they are and can get ... A: Your chairs are what is referred to as Depression era furniture starting in the 20s up into the 40s. ...
Black Stain Mark on Antique Dresser	6/24/2009
Q: My son left a glass (with water in it) on top of an antique dresser in my quest room. It had been ... A: A black stain indicates it's in the wood. Some restorers try to spot repair just the stained area. I ...
lane cedar chest	6/13/2009
Q: this chest has a musty smell, almost like moth balls,and looks like it might have mold spots on the ... A: Place some charcoal in a pan and place it inside for @ a week or 2 then let it air for a few days. ...
Cleaning metals	5/26/2009
Q: I have recently found some artifacts when "excavating" a old family homesite. House built around ... A: There are several "rust buster" type products available at your local home center. Soak the items ...
Couch and chair set	5/25/2009
Q: I have a couch and chair from my grandmother which are in need of restoration (e.g., toes have been ... A: The steps I would do is to first take some pictures of both pieces along with some basic ...
Old antique doll carriage	5/24/2009
Q: I recently found this doll carriage with a handwritten tag suggesting it is from the late 1800's. ... A: What a nice carriage. I would date it right at the turn from the 1890-1900 because of the hood. ...
Waterfall antique Buffet Dresser and Bed	5/15/2009
Q: In a recent move, our antique dresser and bed were damaged. The dresser needs to be re-veneered on ... A: Without some pictures of the damage it would be impossible to give an estimate for repairs. Also , ...
Bloch USA Wicker Rocking Chair	4/30/2009
Q: I found in my Grandmothers house a child's wicker rocking chair. On the back of the chair is a ... A: The only information I could find in my materials is a Bloch Go-Cart Co, Philadelphia, PA. You may ...
Dating antique baby carriages-wheels and tires	4/25/2009
Q: I restore antique wicker as a non-paying hobby and have done numerous pieces and several ... A: I am in agreement with you. In any material I have, it shows the metal rims & rubber tires but ...
Is it worth trying to fix paper-fiber wicker	4/22/2009
Q: I have a three-piece wicker set that's made from paper fiber. There are several places where the ... A: It does sound like Lloyd Loom furniture. Without seeing the set, I would just say off the top of my ...
Doll Buggy?	4/19/2009
Q: I bought this doll buggy on Ebay a number of years ago. It was from an Estate sale and I am just ... A: I would say that this is a import item, not an antique. I have looked in my research books and ...
Old Office Desk Identification	4/4/2009
Q: I have acquired an old, oak office desk with an unusual pull out typewriter stand (I believe). the ... A: From my research,the Patent Pending number appears to be different then the patent number.The patent ...
Antique wicker daybed/bench	3/25/2009
Q: I bought this daybed a while back but now I'm wondering if its to damaged to be restored. One of ... A: It looks like your daybed is a fibre wicker piece. I can see the damage of the bottom and the ...
Caned Rocker	3/5/2009
Q: I purchased this chair for $80.00. It is really different and I haven't seen anything like it ... A: You have a nice rocker, probably made in the 20-40s. Looks like it has a deep seat also. Most I have ...
Heywood-Wakefield wicker baby buggy	3/1/2009
Q: We are putting a Heywood-Wakefield wicker baby buggy back together. Can you explain how the braking ... A: Sorry, there are so many types I can't be clear on which type you have. Basicly, a lever usually ...
Identifying antique furniture	2/21/2009
Q: I have three items of furniture I am trying to identify. A rocker, a rolltop desk and a lamp table. ... A: The roll top desk is oak. It's hard to set a time frame because they made that style for many years ...
Kroehler craftsmen rocking chair	2/18/2009
Q: I have a rocking chair from my grandfather but I have never seen pictures anywhere on the net of ... A: What I would do is have the panels replaced or using the core, reveneer the panels and stain to ...
stain removal from wicker	2/17/2009
Q: I have a set of wooden folding chairs and a table (card set) that is old, probably not antiques. The ... A: I would need some other info to answer the question. Wicker is a term for a style of furniture using ...
Kroehler craftsmen rocking chair	2/16/2009
Q: I have a rocking chair from my grandfather but I have never seen pictures anywhere on the net of ... A: Without a picture to go by, there's not much I can tell you about your rocker. As far as the veneer ...
Ethan Allen Hitchcock chair	2/12/2009
Q: I recently purchased an Ethan Allen Hitchcock chair. It is black lacquer with gold trim, the seat ... A: The seat may be corn husk as that material has been used in seats but my first bet would be rush ...
wicker?	2/7/2009
Q: I am just wondering if there is any easy way for an average person with no real antique or wood ... A: This is a very good question, I'm surprised I haven't been asked this before. Most of the wicker ...
bowback chairs	2/4/2009
Q: I just refurbished an old bowback chair. Is there references so I can get the accual name of it and ... A: Your library would be a good start. You could also check on Ebay or other auction sites for examples ...
old bedroom suite with carved ship	1/19/2009
Q: I'm am really hoping you will be able to help me. In 1972, my mother purchased me an old bedroom set ... A: I'm sorry but I don't have any information to give you. Even with a model number, without catalogs ...
Tabletop	1/5/2009
Q: We own an S. Bent & Sons dining room set made of ash with an oak stain. The tabletop had a ... A: With a finish from that time period, I would suggest having someone look at it. There are so many ...
Cane Crib	1/5/2009
Q: I have a crib that I think was made from cane in the early 1900's. It was bought at a store far ... A: With out a picture or your general location, it's hard for me to give you much information.Is this a ...
Replacing Antique Chair Seat	12/17/2008
Q: I recently purchased an early 1900s British table and chairs set, and would like to replace the ... A: Well you have a few choices. A jig or sabre saw should be had for @$10. . You could also just go ...
Mersman Table 7231	12/7/2008
Q: I have a Mersman table with the triangle underneath and the number 7231. It has a raised 1/2 inch ... A: It looks like it would have been used like a side table or hall table. It has some of the look of a ...
info on old cedar chest	12/3/2008
Q: my cedar chest hast underneath, style #2133m serial number is 740120, how can i find out how old ... A: If it's a Lane or Virginia Made chest, go to www.lanefurniture.com and follow the online to customer ...
antique furniture	12/2/2008
Q: I have an antique Murphy Bed, which was made in 1890-1910. My mother used pledge to clean it, is ... A: Most of the time, you can clean furniture with Mineral Spirits which is also sold as paint thinner, ...
restoring an old dresser	11/13/2008
Q: I am attempting to restore an old dresser. I have no idea when it is from, I just like it, and I ... A: You have a very nice dresser, Do not use denatured alcohol as it may remove the finish. Mineral ...
Paint Removal from Cane-Back Chair	11/10/2008
Q: Please advise how to remove spots of spray paint from the cane of a Thomasville cane-back chair, ... A: I'm sorry to say that probably, you won't get the paint off without removing the stain/finish.The ...
chair who can i tell how old it is?	11/7/2008
Q: I have a very old chair that has been in the family for a long time. The family rumor is that it was ... A: First let me say that remember I am looking at a picture and cannot see the construction details ...
Lane Cedar chest	11/5/2008
Q: My Mother-in-law passed away and up in her attic was a lane cedar chest serial #344211 style#482043 ... A: The last 2 digits of the serial # are supposed to indicate the year of manufacture. If this doesn't ...
Whitney carriage	10/22/2008
Q: My husband and I are restoring a Whitney pram, made in Leominster, Mass, which I received as a gift ... A: I would use whatever material you want based on color and pattern, etc, nothing to delicate, good ...
old chair	10/19/2008
Q: I got this chair at the thrift store for 5 bucks and my mom restored it for me. Do you know what ... A: I would tend to call it a bentwood chair. Very popular style used a bunch in small restaurants and ...
Whitney carriage	10/19/2008
Q: My husband and I are restoring a Whitney pram, made in Leominster, Mass, which I received as a gift ... A: Your pram may indeed have been lined with corduroy. I the catalogs I have, many materials were used ...
chair seat	10/13/2008
Q: I have an office chair, wood with arms and spindles between the arms and seat as well as ornate ... A: These leather seats have been around for a long time, at least since the mid 1800s.Some were put on ...
cleaning danish cord seat	10/4/2008
Q: My husband bought a teak table set with woven seats at a garage sale. The seats are a woven cord, I ... A: Danish cord usually does not have a finish on it and since it's made of woven paper, you are limited ...
antique furniture restoration/central illinois	9/30/2008
Q: Do you know of any good antique furniture restoration business in central Illinois? Thank you in ... A: Sorry, the answer is no. I'm sure there are plenty of reliable business available, just none that I ...
stinky cabinet	9/25/2008
Q: This cabinet was passed from my great-grand-father upon his death to my grandma and now to me. I ... A: The cabinet looks to me to be a freestanding cabinet, not sitting on another piece. The picture you ...
antique table	9/23/2008
Q: I have had this table for 22 years. The person I bought it from said it had been in his family for ... A: Your table looks to be made of Ash. I would doubt it is 122 years old. Probably made @ 1900-1930s. ...
old rocking chair	9/15/2008
Q: I have what I think is an antique rocking chair, whose seat and back are both caned. the seat is ... A: Your chair is from the 20s-30s. They were made in many types of wood. I would belive it is a factory ...
Help needed in identifying seat type	9/14/2008
Q: My wife recently bought a chair that came without a seat. I'd like to know what kind of seat might ... A: The rails being on different planes is quite common. You can use rush, splint or shaker tape in this ...
paint removal	9/5/2008
Q: I have an antique chair that was painted yellow (paint type unknown)that my son retrieved and my ... A: What a great story to go with the chair. I am going to assume you are sure it's plastic cane and go ...
Whitney carriage house	8/26/2008
Q: I own the Victorian house Mr. Whitney built in 1858 in Leominster Massachussetts. Do you have any ... A: Must be exciting to own such a historic home. I would enjoy seeing some pictures. As far as the ...
dresser hardware	8/14/2008
Q: We have an old dresser that we are restoring and it is missing one circular drop pull handle. I ... A: Most companys that made hardware if they are still in business, have long melted down their old ...
bedroom furniture	8/12/2008
Q: I have inherited a complete Dixie bedroom set Poster bed (double) dresser with 3-mirrors (2-angle) ... A: There are several "Dixie Furniture" companys in that area starting in the 1900s. Without at least a ...
Rocker chair seat	8/11/2008
Q: I really need to know where I can purchase the seat for a rocker that originally had the fiberboard ... A: I don't know of anyone in your direct area that caries the seats but Van Dykes Supply in SD has ...
Whitney baby carriage	8/7/2008
Q: My mom purchased this carriage at a yard sale or flea market years ago. The label says F.A. Whitney ... A: The only information I can give you on this item is that the F.A. Whitney Co was located in ...
A 24 LB WEIGHT SCALE	8/1/2008
Q: LOOKING FOR AFACE PLATE REPLACEMENT FOR IT .THE ONE I HAVE IS FADED. I WOULD LIKE TO REFINISH IT ... A: I'm sorry to say I do not know of anyone who makes replacement faceplates. A suggestion would be to ...
chair	7/23/2008
Q: I picked this chair up at a garage sale about 20 years ago. I have always said I would eventually ... A: Nice chair. I don't know if there is a specific name for this style with the slant back but ...
F. A. Whitney Co. Carriage	7/21/2008
Q: We found a mysterious carriage up in my grandma's attic all alone and are interested in finding out ... A: The things one can still find in the attic! First, F.A. Whitney Carriage Company was located in ...
refinishing singer sewing machine	7/13/2008
Q: 1st ever time to attempt refinish anything,got two pieces of two pedal machines(one good bottom, and ... A: Your first stop should be your local library and get some books on refinishing. This will help you ...
gooseneck caned chair	7/10/2008
Q: I had a flood in my basement and my insurance company had a rocking chair restored for me. The ... A: I am sorry, with no information as to who made the rocker or a picture, I cannot give you any ...
brass	7/4/2008
Q: I have a veary dirty brass plate. I have tried to clean it with salt, vinegar, simple gree, soap, ... A: My first thought is that your plate has a "clear coat" of some type, possibly lacquer, and that's ...
antique furniture that smells	7/4/2008
Q: I just read a very good answer by Fred Taylor about getting rid of the old musty smell in antique ... A: You don't say if the smell is inside the case or possably from the drawers? When we refinish a piece ...
morris schiff of philadelphia	6/21/2008
Q: I have a chair from the Morris schiff co. It still has all the original tags and a stamp on one of ... A: Most all furniture of that era is collectable today, especially with a tag and date. Many collectors ...
John Widdicomb	6/21/2008
Q: Mother just passed away--left mint-condition mohogany black lacquer John Widdicomb dining table w 6 ... A: Sorry for your loss. I faced the same thing with the loss of my parents and I must say it's a hard ...
Cavalier chest	6/15/2008
Q: I have found at a yard sale a cavalier chest which is lovely, but in sore need of repair. The veneer ... A: The numbers are probably a stock/item number. The only way to know what they mean would be to have ...
wicker loveseats	6/15/2008
Q: My Mom passed away recently and left, among other items, two identical wicker peices. They are ... A: Once an original piece has been painted, it has already lost some of its value as original so if you ...
cleaning and restoring antique wicker egg basket	6/5/2008
Q: I purchased an antique wicker egg basket and it needs to be cleaned and finished or wiped. What is ... A: I would wash the basket with water and just a little soap, then rinse. If it has some dirt in the ...
Caned Chair	6/3/2008
Q: I inherited 4 chairs from my grandmother who owned an antique shop in New England. I know nothing ... A: These appear to me to be what is called, "Banister Back Chairs". The condition looks very nice on ...
Wicker chair	5/20/2008
Q: I purchased a set of these chairs and I want to fix them up. I have looked in all kinds of books to ... A: Great chair! They look to be a type of "bentwood" chair. Being a set, I would think they were ...
Weigh scale refinishing	5/6/2008
Q: I have an old antique weigh scale my father in law gave to us from his grandfathers farm. I would ... A: Sounds like a great project!Coffee table, how cool. I would start with the wood part by sanding ...
Sheffield Coffee and Cream pots	5/1/2008
Q: I have a coffee/tea set including coffee/tea, open sugar pot, and cream recipient, by James Dixon ... A: I suggest you research it yourself or contact one of the one-line services that will give you a ...
wicker furniture company	4/27/2008
Q: I purchased a wicker set (love seat, rocker, and chair) from a consignment shop. There is a metal ... A: I'm sorry but I cannot find any reference to that company in my research materials. I would suggest ...
Scratches / Berkley & Gay Furniture Desk	4/25/2008
Q: I just purchased this desk and there are some scratches on the top and legs that I'd like to polish. ... A: It wouldn't do any good for me to talk prices because each area is different. Look for someone who ...
Scratches / Berkley & Gay Furniture Desk	4/24/2008
Q: I just purchased this desk and there are some scratches on the top and legs that I'd like to polish. ... A: Before I can answer your questions, I need some more information or else the answer will be a small ...
wicker chairs? Chair backs?	4/24/2008
Q: In our attic we found two matching double size curved wicker chair/settee backs with no seats. They ... A: Without a photo to go by, I really can't say what these might be but they could be for a boat or ...
CEDAR CHEST	4/15/2008
Q: I got a cedar chest from my sister in law. When I open the lid it states "Lane Altavist,VA" on the ... A: If you contact Lane at wood_service@lanefurniture.com, and give them the information you have, they ...
Wooden Bench Restoration	4/13/2008
Q: I recently purchased a bench or two person chair, I am not sure what it would be termed. I was ... A: As far as the age goes, they are still making this type of chair today, so I can't help with an ...
cleaning	4/6/2008
Q: could you advise me on how to clean an antique (1930s) cast iron nutcracker? A small figure, about ... A: Without a doubt, if you intend to sell the item, I would clean with soap and water and leave it ...
Small Child's Wicker Rocker	4/5/2008
Q: My puppy chewed on the wicker arm rest on this 60 year old child's wicker rocker. Do you know a ... A: If you go to www.wickerwoman.com/furniture-repair-directory and look under "wicker' or "chair ...
cleaning	4/4/2008
Q: could you advise me on how to clean an antique (1930s) cast iron nutcracker? A small figure, about ... A: You don't say if it's in bad shape and rusted or just a little dirty so we'll go from least to ...
Antique chest	4/1/2008
Q: I have a six-drawer mahogany chest that's been in the family for many generations. The top two ... A: I'm not sure if there is a name for this type of mechanism or not. It sounds almost like the type of ...
baby carriages	3/17/2008
Q: I have an antique wicker baby carriage, don't know the age. It is in very good shape but the cane is ... A: The F.A. Whitney Carriage Co was started in Leominster,Mass in 1858.If you know the model number or ...
Pendelton-Irwin Table	3/15/2008
Q: I have a 32.5" X 21" Pendleton-Irwin table which is 19" tall, has four brass lion claw feet, and two ... A: Your table was made in Grand Rapids Michigan by the RW Irwin Co also listed as Robert W Irwin ...

All Questions in This Category

Anderson's Restorations-Rob Anderson

Top Expert on this page

Expertise

We can answer questions about wicker repair and restoration, chair seating[caning-rush-splint-danish cord] furniture refinishing and repair, brass and copper polishing, veneering and veneer repair. WE WILL NOT GIVE APPRAISALS or answer "WHATS IT WORTH" questions. If you want a value, contact us for our current costs for this service.

Experience

Just entered our 40th year doing this work. We started in Fl and have been in NC for the last 15 years. We have a web site www.andersonsrestorations.com where we have alot of information about us and a blog at www.andersons-restorations.blogspot.com where we have many before and after photos of our work.We also are experienced in Fiat Jolly Seats and other automobile seating and work on Horse Drawn Carriage pieces.

Organizations
Past president of a historical museum

Publications
Antique Shoppe Newspaper, Yadkin Valley Living Magazine, Antique Lynks Newspaper

Education/Credentials
Seminole HS in Seminole FL class of 1965 and some college before entering service. US Army

Awards and Honors
Asked to demonstrate seat weaving at the NC Musuem of History, Paleigh, for 3 days. Demonstrated at the Mountain Heritage Festival, Sparta,NC.

Past/Present Clients
Restoring 35 pieces of wicker for the Governors Mansion, Raleigh,NC paid through private funding.

Encyclopedia

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