How to restore unwanted furniture

Posted on June 8, 2014 Updated on June 9, 2014

Recycling is a very hot topic right now, and we do recycle plastic bottles, empty jars and cardboard boxes. We know that they are turned into something better, instead of enriching the landfill. But did you know that buying second hand furniture is a form of re-cycling? Yes, by refusing to buy new furniture, in the same place we get a furniture that is already existent, and otherwise unwanted could be discarded and end up on the landfill.

So, ok, but how about if you need a new chest of drawers and you find one, but it is quite a shabby state and needs attention? Most of the jobs you can really make yourself, either by heading to fab knowledge base, which is Youtube, or Googling your problem.

Only yesterday, I have found most charming solid Pine Chest of Drawers, which unfortunately had the drawers sinking at the back, and the base was for some reason smeared with a brown paint. Not having major knowledge about the furniture construction, I saw it as a no-go. But by the end of the day, this chest had so much rustic appeal, I could not give it a go to restore it. I knew there is a hidden charm waiting to be revealed.

The tools I needed were very simple, slight distressing using the palm sander did the initial work of removing the paint from the bottom. I have also sanded down the rest of the surface, to remove the dirt and dust. That really made a tremendous difference and the chest looked as if smiling again – don’t believe me? The furniture has got soul, if you give it the right treatment, it beams, and smiles at you with pride, that is the fact!
Anyway, when it came to dealing with the drawers, I realised the reason why they are sinking at the back, was the fact the runners, although perfectly in place, were somehow in the slight distance from the drawers (?). It all fitted together from the front, yet for some reason, the sides of this chest of drawers were heading outwards. So the runners didn’t slot into the row carved in each drawer. There was not much I could do, apart of cutting small pieces of wood, and attaching them to the inner sides, just under the drawers. I have measured, where the drawers need a support to keep them in line, and I have fixed those little pieces of wood to the sides of the chest. It worked a treat, the drawers slide in nicely, and stay in perfectly horizontal position. Simple procedure, yet amazing effects.

When finished, I had to treat the pine surface, which have been sanded down. I always use Cambridge Natural Beeswax Polish for treating wood. It gives the most enchanting aroma to the wood when finished, just irresistible smell of wood… this natural beeswax polish is so good, as it is handmade, which means there are no chemicals to speak of, it gives the wooden surface the nourishment and protection against the dust, damp and other effects. It’s like an organic face mask, but for the wood. I really recommend using it. It also is good for you, because you do not inhale chemical fumes, which can be quite strong (and damaging) when it comes to the furniture wax.
I apply the beeswax polish with a stiff brush, let it penetrate the wood for few hours, and then buff it with a standard polishing cloth. The buffing is great to add natural sheen to the surface, and this lovely exquisite smell. Voila, all is ready, finished and the chest is re-born again, and it will work as a stylish storage for another number of years!
by Cherrie Hub