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Should I paint grandmas desk?

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Desks161 of 640Vintage Secretary or Butler's desk foundAntique Writing Desk
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    Posted 7 years ago

    Alitor
    (1 item)

    By Grandmother was born in Connecticut in 1920. This desk came from someone in her family. I know her fathers side of the family had recently come from Ireland and included many aunts and uncles. I wish I had asked her more or remembered details she told me. Anyway, I have great memories of her using the desk as I grew up and would love to continue its life! Unfortunately, another family member allowed a dog to badly damage the front and it does have some missing some pieces of veneer. I don't want to ruin something that could be unique/historical. It's beautiful, just needs some love. Thanks for any info!!

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    Comments

    1. Alitor, 7 years ago
      I checked for markings and the only ones I could find were numbers on the back of the small drawers. Hand written, 38, 32, and illegelable- maybe 21?
    2. scottvez scottvez, 7 years ago
      I am not a fan of painting.

      The veneer work on the base piece looks fairly simple. The top doesn't look like it will take much to get rid of the scratching. I'd contact a few local antique restorers and get some quotes before you paint it.

      To me painting is not an option!

      scott
    3. scottvez scottvez, 7 years ago
      I didn't answer part of your question.

      The piece doesn't appear to be particularly unique or historical. I would date it to the 2nd quarter, 20th century.

      scott
    4. Alitor, 7 years ago
      I appreciate your feedback! My gut tells me it would be more expensive to restore than paint, but I totally understand keeping pieces more true to their roots. I'm torn! I'm leaning more toward making a useful and sentimental piece for me than preserving its history if its not very significant. Hopefully that makes sense!
    5. scottvez scottvez, 7 years ago
      Price it out.

      Certainly more expensive to restore, if you hire someone vs. a can of paint.

      It's only historical significance is to you/ memories of it.

      Don't let MY aversion to painting cause you a second thought. If painting/ hiding the dings will make you use it/ continue to treasure it-- then have at it!

      Good luck.

      scott
    6. roddyq roddyq, 7 years ago
      The wood grain really stands out making this a nice piece to look at. There are many different inexpensive home remedies shown online for removing scratches or blending in deeper gouges. There are many sites offering methods on replacing veneer it's straight forward. It was built to see the wood, painting doesn't seem like the way to go. You can remove a small piece of broken veneer and take it to either a restorer or store that sells stains and they should be able to match the stain color for you.

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