You are here:

Collectibles-General (Antiques)/small 4 draw chest one swing out draw

Advertisement


Question
i was wondering how to restore,made out of maple,not sure the use of the small chest,but it is very pretty but dirty been in a family of smokers...........nancy helsel

Answer
Hi Nancy
Nice to hear from you.
It will depend on the degree of dirt as to what you use to clean this Nancy, but personally I am always hesitant to say try soap and water as I find this usually just makes heavy dirt gummy.
I like to use mineral spirits which we call varsol in Canada.
First dip a rag in it and rub away.
If you feel this is not really getting the dirt off, use super fine steel wool dipped in the varsol.
Keep clean rags handy and dry as you go.
I recently cleaned my chairs like this and was embarassed at the dirt that came off LOL.
Then a nice waxing should be all thats necessary.
Regards
Eileen

Collectibles-General (Antiques)

All Answers


Answers by Expert:


Ask Experts

Volunteer


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.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.