How do I straighten wood?
by
Patricia G.
+1
I plan to re-finish my grandmother's bedroom suite but one of the dressers has a slightly bowed side. The curve is enough that the drawers don't rest on their rails. How can I straighten that curved side?
If you are handy you may be able to replace the bowed sides of the drawers with new wood. Or you may be able to find someone who can do it for you. It's not a difficult fix but you need the right tools and some experience.
I cannot see any bowing from the picture you provided. It does appear that the drawer rails have worn out. You can replace or repair the rails with roller rails or silicone corner pieces attached to the rail and drawer.
You can influence the shape of wood. But you have to be careful that you don't make the whole piece worse than when you started. If you don't want to just build up the runner inside so the drawer runs on it correctly, take the piece to someone who repairs antique furniture. It will be worth the $$.
I can clearly see the warping and bowing of your dresser. Here is a link which may give you some insight. http://werefinish.net/furniture-refinishing-restoration/furniture-repair-and-restoration-tutorials/warped_wood_on_furniture/