Reviving antique inlaid table
by
Nmmilan
+15
I recently picked up this little beauty at a flea market. From what research I've been able to do, it seems it could be from the late 1800s. Even though it was in awful shape, I just knew there was beauty there. Using advice KMS Woodworks gave another member, I stripped it using a citrus stripper. I'm so excited about how lovely it already looks. Now I need to figure out how to repair a missing piece of wood, and I need advice on how to seal/preserve it. Can anyone help? Thank you!!
16 answers
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I can't help with how to replace the missing wood piece, but want to say what a gem you found in this gorgeous table! You've done an excellent job! I would love to have this table as is....I've never seen one like this anywhere.
Barbara Thomas
on Oct 17, 2014
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This is SO beautiful! I can't seem to find what is missing. If it is a small piece, can you use a wood filler?...
Dolly Smith
on Oct 17, 2014
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Well done!! This is amazing. I've had amazing success with Miss Mustard Seed's Hemp Oil and in fact now have a number of professional furniture restorers using it. It protects and seals making the surface water and heat resistant in the process. It's also an all natural product and is simply beautiful to use. Cannot recommend it enough!! Gorgeous table...just love it!!!
For The Love Creations
on Oct 17, 2014
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Beautiful table!
Liliana Wells
on Oct 17, 2014
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What a wonderful restore! You now have a treasure!
Jeanette S
on Oct 17, 2014
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Tung and citrus oil combined work well. I use it on my wooden counter tops
Sheri Ketarkus
on Oct 17, 2014
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The only way I can help you with your troubles, is to just take this table off your hands...lol...WOW!! What a beautiful compliment to any home! Great find and fantastic job so far!!
Therese C
on Oct 17, 2014
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totally awesome job. Tung seed oil is what I recommend or the hemp oil. Where and how big is the area that is missing wood?
Jan
on Oct 17, 2014
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Wow! Thank you everyone for your kind comments and suggestions. I'm attaching a photo of the flaws. Two of them look like repairs have been attempted at some point -- probably a long time ago, judging from the methods. The missing piece on the edge (photo on the left) actually has something metal in there. I assume it was placed to build up and hold the repair, but I don't know. The photo on the top right shows the corner is missing a piece, and it looks like there are two drill holes there (maybe to have supported a repair like the other one?). The bottom right photo is a small crack on the leg. I'm not sure whether to just fill the crack or if I should do something more aggressive to give it added stability. This is my first time doing anything like this and I'm so afraid of ruining this gorgeous little table.
Nmmilan
on Oct 17, 2014
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Whew, that is a nasty looking piece of damage. I would try purchasing some wood filings, adding to glue to make a thick ball you can add and shape; allow to dry for several days before sanding the rough spots of the repair. You may have to cut out the damage, trace a 'pattern' and create an insert/mold; use the wood filings and glue. Good luck!
TwilaB
on Oct 17, 2014
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Before you attempt any repairs have it evaluated. Sometimes repairs, especially if they are done incorrectly, will devalue a piece.
Janis Hill
on Oct 17, 2014
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Thank you, great suggestion!
Nmmilan
on Oct 17, 2014
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It is always a good idea to check with an expert. Function, though always trumps monetary concerns. If it is not functional it is not worth anything.
Carol Tomlin
on Oct 17, 2014
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I'd just love it the way it is, and put that corner in the corner. Looks like it might have been burnt. I'll bet it came from India. I'd also get it appraised before any repair.
Ida Hennessey
on Oct 22, 2014
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I don't have any advice to offer but want to thank you for saving it. It is wonderful.
Lori
on Jan 19, 2015
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Thanks Lori and Ida. :)
Nmmilan
on Jan 20, 2015
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