Before
This set of 10 antique dining chairs was poorly refinished with silver paint resembling aluminum. Shown is the first step in correcting this, using a wash to create a patina and enhance the details.
After
The final step involved mixing clear lacquer with powdered gold paint to enhance the patina, creating an aged silver effect. This economical solution effectively corrected a potentially costly mistake.
Before
This late 1800s marquetry desk featured intricate veneer inlay. Dried animal glue caused significant damage, requiring careful veneer replacement and border repairs.
After
All inlay has been replaced, reattached, or touched up. This restored desk retains its original charm and character, now appearing as if it has always been loved and cared for.
Before
This antique radio, bought online, arrived from Wisconsin with severe damage after a rough move. The case had a broken center top and loose glue joints, requiring a complete rebuild.
After
I removed the broken top piece, repaired it, and re-veneered it with walnut. The entire case was reassembled, joints re-glued and reinforced. The owner requested a two-tone finish and a hand-rubbed satin luster.
Before
This 18th-century china cabinet from France had extensive warping and cracking. The mandate was to repair and refinish it, preserving its antique look while addressing centuries of climate damage.
After
Here’s the photo of the finished piece, with numerous repairs to cracked and warped panels that were strengthened and finished with an appropriate patina.
Before
This 200-year-old grandfather clock case needed its center door replaced due to severe warping. Cracked, peeling, and missing inlaid veneer caused by failing glue and climate exposure needed repair.
After
The veneer was sanded, filled, re-glued, and replaced where necessary. The warped chime door was reinforced with mahogany plywood, and the entire clock case was re-lacquered to mimic the original finish.
Before
This library table, stored disassembled in a garage, had broken legs and a delaminating veneer. It was restored and reassembled as an ultimate sewing table with removable parts for easy moving, perfect for fabric storage and layout.
After
Budget constraints led to repairing, rather than replacing, the table’s veneer with black paint. This creative choice, combined with a removable assembly system, ensured the table’s practicality and beauty.
Before
One of a pair of antique end tables showed the typical wear of old furniture, with a deteriorated lacquer finish, scratches, and loose and wobbly joints.
After
The detailed carvings and beadwork, along with the beautiful book-matched veneer top, made these great candidates for restoration. The hand-rubbed finish brought back the elegance these tables had.