Silky Oak Finishing

[Krispy's Sister]

Hi,

We have recently aquired a beautiful 1930's Silky Oak dining table which is in desperate need of some TLC. I have not restored silky Oak before and I'm a little confused about the best finishing method(s).
Any suggestions? The table is in pretty good knick. It really only needs sanding and finishing.

thankyou!

[jaspr]

Welcome to the forum Krispy's Sister

I can't really help you with finishing, but what you need to do to restore it probably depends a bit on how it was finished originally and if it's still with its original 1930's finish - it may well be a shellac finish. My understanding is that these are easily restored. Someone here will be able to offer expert advice.

A silky oak dining table - I'm jealous.

jas

[falcon]

would depend on what the finish is at the moment. Im certainly no expert, however Ive used Howards Orange Oil on an old organ a mate had. It was probably finished with shellac or similar - certainly not polished - and it come up really well with a simply rub down.

Silky oak hey , should look great. Best of luck :2tsup:

[Krispy's Sister]

thanks jaspr

The table its self is lovely. Picked it up at a second hand store for nothing at all really. I am assuming it is still the original finish. It is in very good condition considering its age. :U

[Krispy's Sister]

thanks Falcon

Orange oil hey... hadnt even thought of that one!

thanks!:)

[conwood]

Hi,
I have worked with lots of it, particularly older items. Secret is to clean old finish. Old shellac goes dark hiding lovely grain.

As for finishing, I have used shellac, oils and recently tung oils. Orange oil as suggested will also give you a great finish. As with most things, have a play and experiment.

For items which get much usage I usually go for oil as it is easy to maintain, but not as glossy as shellac and urethane finishes. It's all about compromise. Have fun.

cheers,
conwood

[Krispy's Sister]

Thankyou Conwood

I think you may be right. Might play with the finish on the underside see what happens. The wood looks lovely but as you suggest, it is very dark and therefore, the grain is hard to see. Oil seems like the way to go.

Thankyou!
:U