Help with refinish/recondition a Tiger Oak antique buffet, please.

Ijensen
by Ijensen
I have a beautiful antique tiger oak buffet. I purchased it about a year ago and I'm getting ready to "recondition" it to put in my home. It has good bones, a few flaws but good enough to just give a little TLC and use. I re-glued any of the dovetailed drawers that needed it, finished removing the ugly green felt (had to scrape it off and will replace with something different) and cleaned it up good. What is the best oil/polish/wax to use to bring it back to life? I also read somewhere to apply a top finish (the oil/polish/wax) with your hands if possible...so your cloth doesn't absorb all the product. Any tips? Should I apply a stain like Watco all over it? Help, I want to do it up right...
  6 answers
  • James gyorko James gyorko on Mar 31, 2015
    @ijensen I would recommend using Minwax and applying with fingers over small areas at a time
  • Gloria tulip Gloria tulip on Apr 01, 2015
    Do you not have a picture? A furniture restorer told me to never use oil as a refinisher. Always use shellac, lacquer or varnish.
  • 9530106 9530106 on Apr 03, 2015
    I have always used tung oil, because I prefer a hand-rubbed look, but recently started using Watco Danish oil. It really works nicely, as it is not sticky, and absorbs into the wood and conditions it. It comes in natural and other colors, and is so easy to use.
  • Gloria tulip Gloria tulip on Apr 04, 2015
    I like the tung oil finish and it is easier to use than lacquer and shellac. The restorer who informed me never to use oil as a refinisher of antiques believes the beauty/value of the antique is better preserved with lacquer, shellac or varnish. My old antique bed featured here is done in Formby's tung oil. I am very happy with it. I have done several pieces of furniture in tung oil and they have held up quite well, at least for 15 years or more. The other methods may be better for truly long period of time. Thanks for info about Watco Good luck with your project.
  • Ijensen Ijensen on Apr 15, 2015
    Thanks so much for all the suggestions!!! I love the idea of the tung oil and need to get some. This is how it turned out...:)
  • Ijensen Ijensen on Apr 15, 2015
    I actually purchase the top part separate from the buffet...and love the look.