FINISHWORKS
is:
Historic Restoration
The Finest in Fine Art Galleries
Completely Unique Decorative Art
Portraits
Awards & Shows
Refinishing
Marine Restoration & Cabinetry
Building
Renovation
Restoration
Maintenance & Odd Jobs
How To...
How To...
Hand Restoration of Fine Furniture Page 3
It is important that you save each and every little piece so that they can be re-glued. Never assume you can replace anything on an old piece...you might be out of luck. You can always have something custom milled or carved...but the expense jumps considerably when you have to do that. So save all those little tiny pieces. (Tip...put all the antique hardware inside a baggie with all the old screws, etc.).
Before applying the finish....sand the piece thoroughly with finish sandpaper. Then, rub it again, with the finest steel wool.... to make sure the surface is ready to stain and finish. The final steps are to choose the color you want to stain the piece. Rub it on with a soft clean clothe and let dry overnight. (we recommend Minwax products or, if you are into natural you can try Livos products). Then the finish is rubbed on by hand in layers. It is best to cut the urethane or varnish with denatured alcohol (we usually cut it 50/50 and apply thin coats. Three to four coats usually does it. Then, use some of the finest steel wool and rub it again.