Another of Melanie's family's relics is this pine clothes chest. After more than
100 years of use and abuse, this chest was in dire need of restoration. Construction
is very low density pine, with dovetailed corners. Finish was a clear varnish with
no stain. The bottom, back, and inside had no finish at all. Restoration consisted
of knocking apart and re-gluing most joints, sanding, and filling in the multiple
dings and scratches where they were really deep. Minor imperfections were kept for
the sake of character. Minwax dark walnut stain was used inside and out, and allowed
to dry for a week. Then, two coats of Deft satin clear were brushed on with 320
sanding and 0000 steel wool between coats, then three coats of Deft spray clear
satin were applied, with 0000 steel wool between coats. Finally, 1/4" cedar was
installed in the bottom and on the underside of the lid. A heavy brass piano hinge
replaced the two door hinges on the original, and a length of black chain keeps
the lid from opening too far. Project Time: 3 months.
 Antique Clothes Chest
Completed w/Lid Closed
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 Antique Clothes Chest
Completed w/Cedar Lining
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 Antique Clothes Chest
Before Commencing Restoration
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 Antique Clothes Chest
Before Stripping
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 Antique Clothes Chest
Internal Storage Bin
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 Antique Clothes Chest
Latch Cutout
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 Antique Clothes Chest
Bottom Before Stripping
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 Antique Clothes Chest
Left Rear Foot (repair needed)
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 Antique Clothes Chest
Right Rear Foot
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 Antique Clothes Chest
Top Before Stripping
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 Antique Clothes Chest
Inside Before Stripping
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Posted August 30, 2024
(updated from original
post on 10/19/2014)
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