An antique chest can be repaired.
Antique wooden chests can provide an old-time feel for a room in your house. Unfortunately, antique furniture sometimes shows its age with cracked veneer. Restore the beauty of your antique chest by repairing its veneer. If a chest has cracks in the wood, loose hinges or structural problems, it may require further repairs. Fix additional damage before repairing the veneer. Severe problems may require the assistance of a professional or someone with carpentry experience. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Purchase "flexible veneer." This veneer is about 1/60th inch thick and fits most wooden chests. Find veneer online or at home improvement stores.
2. Clean the chest by wiping it with a damp cloth.
3. Cut away the damaged veneer using a router with a 3/4'' bit. Run the router across the damaged area of the chest, using straight, short strokes.
4. Sand the damaged area of the chest using 320-grit sandpaper. Rub the sandpaper across the surface of the chest, using a circular motion.
5. Trace the shape of the sanded portion of the chest using a pencil and paper. Cut out this shape and trace it onto the new veneer. Cut the new veneer into the shape.
6. Apply hide glue to the sanded portion of the chest.
7. Press the veneer into the chest. Sand the edge of the new veneer using 320-grit sandpaper until the edge is level with the veneer on the chest. Gentle sanding helps even out the seams, making the new veneer blend in with the old.
Tags: chest using, 320-grit sandpaper, antique chest, area chest, area chest using