Home furnishings look spectacular with a patina bestowed by time and use. But years of wear can also make a piece look past its prime and disposable. The good news is that with the right know-how, most wood furniture can be restored to its former glory. Furniture maker and restorer Bobby Franks discusses the basics.
Franks begins with the essentials for preventing damage: climate control and routine maintenance.
“Don’t put wood furniture in front of the air condition or heat register,” said Franks. “It will dry and become brittle. And keep it out of the sun, which fades the finish.”
Franks says every piece is different and should be assessed according to finish, type of wood, and condition. But as a general rule, he advises applying hydrating products (his favorite is OZ Cream Polish) and when called for, protective waxes.
“Wood furniture should always be hydrated and if it has wax, you need to put wax back on it unless you strip it,” he said.
The exception is a dining table because a wax finish will become “gummy” from food and debris. Instead, Franks advises a durable finish that won’t become tacky such as a French polish or a lacquered finish, which won’t yellow like polyurethane.
Franks advises going beyond the notion that you want a dated or broken piece to look great again and consider the particulars of how you envision the result. And it doesn’t have to be an antique or heirloom to be worth saving. The key considerations are that “it’s functional and you like it.” Then, learn about the process (preferably with some experience), invest in the right tools and products (sandpaper, steel wool, Scotch Brite pads, gloves) and make sure you’ve got time to devote to the project. Or find a seasoned restoration expert for the job.
1 | Use a level padded surface.
2 | Make sure a piece is straight and level when you finish working on it.
3 | Get hands-on experience – take a workshop.
4 | Work in a controlled environment clear of wind and rain and with proper ventilation.
About the Expert
Bobby Franks, proprietor of Uptown Restoration, has a following that has included individual clients, art museums, historic house museums and antiques dealers over his 50 years making and restoring furniture. Traditional finishes using his own in-house-crafted shellac, carved veneers, and leather inlay for desktops are among his specialties.