Betsy Mahogany
This was a furniture restoration for a client of mine. This table was hand built of Mahogany in Panama, used for a few years, then brought to Colorado. Here it was used and slightly abused. The owner had at one point used it for some plants. Wood and water do not mix to well. The main top piece had split down the middle due to poor design and construction methods.
The rule to build with the ability for wood movement was ignored. The top was screwed directly to the trestle styled legs which did not contract at the same rate. The tops dowel joints failed and water and residue contributed. I cleaned up the failed joints, striped and refinished it ( not sanding to allow the antique like dings and character to remain)
The rule to build with the ability for wood movement was ignored. The top was screwed directly to the trestle styled legs which did not contract at the same rate. The tops dowel joints failed and water and residue contributed. I cleaned up the failed joints, striped and refinished it ( not sanding to allow the antique like dings and character to remain)
Completed table
Character still showing
Figure 8 clips to allow for wood movement
Newly jointed above...original bellow
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2 comments
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Someone suggested Howards Refinishing product and I found in my little town, so I am going to try to restore first and if I don't like it, then will paint it.
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I use the Howard's Feed and Wax blend of bees wax and orange oil on my natural wood Jewelry boxes...Over time it gives a really nice patina to cherry
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