help with restoration strategy 40s-50s style veneered buffet

[satyanchari]

Hi All

This is my first post so be gentle!

I picked up this buffet from a garage sale for 50 bucks. The intention was to initially not do very much but on closer inspection it appears to have a nice veneer that might really sparkle if restored well...

I am after any observations on the piece, what the timber might be, what you would do with it if it were you...

Cheers

Satyan

Pictures to follow..

[satyanchari]

Here is a picture

The little bakelite handles are all broken - any suggestions on where i could find replacements that are period specific?

It also appears that the door on the right has a moderate warp in it. I would really appreciate any advice on how to tackle that.

This is already turning out to be a bigger project than I anticipated!!! :doh:- I can see why so many beautiful pieces of furniture end up under a layer of white enamel paint.

Looking forward to your replies!

regards

satyan

[_fly_]

Have a look through GRAEME BROWN ANTIQUES Catalogue. They have lots of old hardware. Graeme Brown Antiques (http://www.gbrownantiques.com.au/)

[satyanchari]

Thanks Fly...thats a good lead.

I've had some luck this morning with a bit of meth, the old shellac finish came off easy and actually looks a lot less damaged than I initially thought. My guess is it is Queensland Walnut for most of the veneered bits.

I'll put some more pics up, but I am tending towards just replacing the hardware and waxing it. I could think about a proper restoration job when the kids are older and not prone to crayoning on the furniture.

Any tips on how to tackle warped doors?> Is clamping likely to affect the integrity of the veneer?

Cheers

Satyan

[fineboxes]

Door Veneer is fiddle back Qld Maple, top from the pics looks like Qld. Walnut.

What sort of frame are the doors in is it hollow or on a solid board?

Skirt is Qld. Maple and the rounded over piece at the top appears to be segmented Qld. Walnut.

Should look really nice when finished.

Best bet for replacement handle is check out 2nd hand shops or the auctions for pieces that you can swap them with, (after you buy then of course!)

Or try Jim at Goods and Chattels at Clayfield just behind antique corner on Clayfield Rd.


Cheers


Steve

[satyanchari]

HI Steve

Thanks for the helping in identifying the fiddle back pattern was maple. I just assumed the whole thing would be walnut since the sides and top were. Here are another few picks after I just wiped away the shellac. Looks a million bucks!

Satyan

[satyanchari]

[QUOTE=fineboxes;1422946]What sort of frame are the doors in is it hollow or on a solid board?

solid board...with veneer back and front (back is walnut)

THanks

Satyan