How to restore vintage sideboard?

[ChrisA]

 

  

 

 

 

 

Hi everyone,

would love some advice on how to restore this vintage sideboard…I’m afraid  to start in case I stuff it up!!

[MitchellMc]

Hi @ChrisA,

Since the sideboard isn’t in terrible condition, starting with a gentle approach like using Mr Sheen or a high-quality furniture polish is a smart first step. This can help rejuvenate the surface and bring out the natural beauty of the wood. Often, a good polish is all that’s needed to achieve a satisfactory result without the need for more intensive work.

However, if polishing doesn’t deliver the desired effect, you might consider sanding. Be cautious, as many vintage pieces feature a veneer—a thin layer of fine wood that’s easy to sand through if you're not careful. Start with a 240-grit sandpaper and work gently, focusing on removing the old coating rather than the wood itself. It’s essential to use light, even strokes to avoid damaging the veneer. Your goal is to strip back the deteriorated finish without compromising the structure of the piece.

Once the old finish has been removed, you can decide on how to refinish the sideboard. One option is to apply a varnish, which will provide a durable and hard-wearing protective layer. Polyurethane varnish is particularly robust and works well if the sideboard will be frequently used. Multiple thin coats, sanded lightly between applications with fine-grit sandpaper, will create a smooth, long-lasting finish. Alternatively, if you prefer a softer, more natural look, you can opt to polish the unit instead, allowing the natural grain and character of the wood to shine through. 

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

[Jason]

Hi @ChrisA,

I trust you'll find Mitch's reply very helpful. 

Just thought I'd also tag a few experienced furniture upcyclers for their thoughts:

@Renowayoflife, @Benskimo, @craftyhopper, @marliemakesit, @lifestylebymari 

Jason

[ChrisA]

Thankyou very much Mitchell and Jason…it’s a great help.

I think Mitchell is right …the front draws and sliding panels seem to have some type of wood on the front and then chip board below that.

I was thinking of sanding and then using danish oil..do you think that would work out?

[MitchellMc]

That should work, @ChrisA, but first, I would try some of the Danish oil on the worn sections to see if it alone is enough to revitalise the surface. 

Mitchell

[Benskimo]

Thanks for the tap @Jason , and hi @ChrisA - that piece is a gem! I'm envious! My $0.02 is to at least start with a good clean with a non-invasive product and a bit of elbow grease... it looks like it's in great nick already, and a good clean would remove any built-up grime over the years first. Everything @MitchellMc said, plus I'd avoid any stains or coloured varnishes... Retain the real tones of the wood, that's a lot of what these pieces were/are famous for. Take care sanding and finishing the top, to remove those ring-marks, and you should be golden! 

[ChrisA]

Hi Benskimo,

Thanks for the advice…It’s a nice piece …I found it in a clean up when I was on a bike ride. 

The other day I put some Funiture polish oil on it and it’s come up great…I just put a few things on top to cover the rings and it now looks great…will give the top a light sand when I get a chance.