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Question
I have brought a very old escritoire from england to new zealand and now the finish looks as if its going darkish in patches under the french polish or varnish or whatevers on it. Looks like some damp is underneath. What can I do to restore it or stop it going worse. I tried polishing it with an antique wax polish but it doesn't seem to have helped.
Thanks
Julia
Hi Julia
Nice to hear from you.
I cannot imagine that dampness could get under the finish unless the furniture was exposed to water...which is possible if it came all that way.
There is no way to fix this without removing the finish thus exposing the wood and the dark patches.
Then wood bleach may have to be used to remove the black marks.
I am afraid this will be a job for a pro.
Sorry this has happened.
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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