Secretary desk

I'm getting ready to refinish a Secretary desk the owner said it dated back to 1867. He's looking for some parts to be duplicated, which I have no problem. My question is , would anyone be interested in guidance when I have questions? The guy doesn't care how long it takes , and I want to make sure the desk looks it's best.

Thanks Kevin


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That is a beautiful piece of furniture, however I'm inexperienced with restoring antiques. You might find a makers mark on the bottom of a drawer which may help guide you along a little more.

The little I do know about antiques is that hide glue was commonly used and softens when heated.

Please keep me posted on any developments as it is a very interesting project.

Regards, Paul.

I will be posting more pictures as I move along with it

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Hi Kevin, there are a number of experienced restorers on these forums and all are willing to offer advice and information I have found.

I have experience with hide glues (the only sort that you should use on an antique for any old joints) and with French Polishing using a number of different shellacs so I am happy to help with that if you need it.

For an antique like that you may not need to do any repolishing and it is important to remember that the age of the piece and signs of use (even misuse) are its patina and with its original finish make up a large part of its value, both historically and financially. As such, it is best not to strip off any old finishes but to clean and wax to make them glow. If the finish is missing or there are some new parts the it is best to use a compatible colour of shellac, which was usually the original shellac - which comes in hard little discs called buttons. That is still available and I can give you the contact details if you need them.

What timber is the piece?

David

Thanks for the offer, I will enjoy any good direction to be sure this is properly done. For the contacts, yes I would like them. Again thanks

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I realise that you are in the US, half a world away, so the contact I have for button shellac may not be as good as a US supplier, if you can find one. However, it is: Robert Rae, Shines Shellac fax +61 2 8003 9876. I'm sorry I do not have an email address. I'll give him a call and see if he has one.

Advice is easier - the forums are accessible world-wide!

David

I can give you my email, also my Facebook page is Kelly Lee Refinishing

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And love advice, thanks David

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some sources of shellac

https://www.shellac.net/Shellac_ordering_list.html -- I've not dealt with them so can make no recommendation

Shellacs - Lee Valley Tools -- Lee Valley, so shouldn't need to say more


keep us posted

I will indeed, thank you

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