Expert: Eileen Cronk - 3/4/2005

Question
I have been a wood worker for many years but recently I have developed an interest in antique repair because of dust allergies connected with furniture building.  I am particularly interested in learning how to identify valuable antique furniture,wood types,and repair techniques.  I currently have a badly damaged chair that will be my first attempt.  Any tips you have would be appreaciated.

Answer
Hi Bob
Nice to hear from you.
Repairing or restoring "valuable" antiques requires a lot of skill and knowledge.
Repairing "old stuff" (which is what I do :-), is somewhat different.
The restoration of a genuine antique requires a complete knowledge of the techniques the old world craftsmen used to make furniture.
This includes the types of finishes, how the wood was cut, the joinery, and the types of glues they used..just to mention a few things.
If you want to pursue this area, I suggest you start reading everything you can on the subject...there are lots of books out there.
A good one would be on identifying antique furniture, and one on the repair and restoration of antique furniture.
Bob, there is lots of "old stuff" available to practice on. Your old chair is an example.
And yes..if you are determined to do this there is no reason you can't learn this craft.
Being a former wood worker, you have an advantage.
Here are two of my favorite "learning sites".
They have a wealth of knowledge.
The first is a message board were some very knowledgable folks hang out.
I'll bet they can name the best books to get you started.
http://antiquerestorers.com/cgi-bin/bbs/furn/config.pl?
The second one contains a wealth of info...look through the entire site.
http://antiquerestorers.com/index4.htm
Good Luck in your endeavors
Eileen