Chair Restoration

[PJM16]

Hi all, I'm about to begin restoring an old chair that my father in law had lying about in the old shack on his farm. It will be my first faithful restoration. I have done others in the past but not using traditional glues and finishes. I've worked out that the seat would have been upholstered instead of old floor boards and the metal strapping isn't original.

If anyone has any tips to help me out that would be greatly appreciated.

I'm also looking for any info on an approximate age and style of the chair. My father in law thinks it was probably made by his grandfather, who was a carpenter by trade, though it is unsure if he made it or not. Where would I find a makers' mark if there was one?

Thanks in advance,
Paul

[Lappa]

Are you going to dismantle completely including joints if possible? Should keep you busy for some time:D

[PJM16]

Yeah the plan is complete dismantle if necessary, re-sand, reassemble and finish. I'm aware it will be a long job, however there's no time limit so hopefully it will be a nice relaxing job that I learn a few new things from.

[PJM16]

Progress update; today I managed to find a little bit of time to pull apart the chair and a little bit of sanding to work out what finish, if any was used prior to painting. Looks like there was a clear coat of some description, I'm not yet sure how to tell the difference between them.

Most of the joints came apart easy enough as what glue was there had let go well and truly, just a few stubborn screws that needed a bit of convincing.

Looks like I've got a few dowel holes to re drill and plenty of sanding and cleaning before moving on.