Museum Quality Restoration Process

I’m often asked about which method of refinishing a historically significant piece of antique art is the best, to maintain it’s market value. While it is correct that certain furniture, very old and historical pieces are worth significantly more when their original finish is intact, other factors may also need to be considered.

Many different finishes have been used over the centuries to beautify and protect wood furniture. Historically authentic finishes were very labor intensive to apply, not terribly durable and required constant attention. Of late, the current trend for many restorers has been towards the non-traditional impervious finishes that are scientifically designed to survive in active modern households.

No single finish method is right for every piece of furniture. Considerations of cost, durability, beauty and value are all important factors in your choice of preserving and enhancing antique wood furnishings. l will work closely with you to determine which refinishing method is right for you, in preserving the value of your treasured possessions.

Depending on your needs, I can offer you expert refinishing in…

  • Traditional Wax finishes that have been used for many years, especially on rustic or country pine furnishings because of its soft and satiny appearance.
  • Oil Finishes that have also been used for hundreds of years.
  • Natural Shellac finish which was a very popular finish for furniture and floors a century ago.
  • True Natural Varnish which is rarely used anymore.
  • Traditional Lacquer Finishes that have been popular for over a 100 years.
  • All Modern Refinishing Methods designed to protect your furniture from the ravages of weather and/or rough use.

“I have always believed that art is an essential component of what it means to be human, and I know that art as expressed through antiques is a central part of my life. I see antiques as the souls of people long ago, who expressing their feelings, thoughts, spiritually and daily life through the medium of wood. Antiques allow me to place myself in a world of beauty and peace.”

-Scott Nightingale, circa 1999