TRUNK EXAMPLES

On the above metal trunk, note its condition prior to restoration.

It is severely rusted.

The wood slats are in poor condition.

The handles have rotted to the point they are nearly gone.

It doesn't close properly as the hinges are sprung.

The black on the ends is virtually gone.

Looking under the handle covers I could see the original fauxing.

The trunk lifter was gone.

The bottom had rusted through due to setting on a damp basement floor.

Right top corner metal cap missing.

Corners rusted through.

The problems with this trunk are fairly evident.

Seven or eight of the fancy brass nails are missing.

The leather closures are missing.

The entire trunk, including leather and brass, had been painted black.

There are missing chunks of leather, some after it was painted, some before.

The interior was a mess.

I made invisible patches on the missing leather.

Made new leather closures and stays.

Removed paint from leather and entire surfaces of trunk.

Made missing nails as they are quite different from those on market.

Dyed leather and patches and sealed

Polished all brass on trunk. I did not put a sealer on it so it could tarnish naturally if desired.

Put new handles and lid lifter on trunk.

Rebuilt the inside. I could determine from the remnants what the original interior looked like. I was fortunate to have a paper that was almost a perfect match for the original.

Made a new tray for the interior.

NOTE:

Any information provided here is primarily based on my experience. While I can't guarantee you will obtain the same results, the various procedures should work for you if you follow the precautions before attempting them. For example, determine the type of finish that currently exists before starting any procedure. Always determine the stability the existing finish. If is flaking, it is unstable and either needs to be left alone on a valuable item, or amalgamated or removed if it is a piece that will have a greater value if restored and refinished.

This brings up a very important issue. TV programs such as the Antiques Road Show increase people's awareness that not everything should be restored, and that in cases of valuable items, it will decrease the value considerably. Now, the hard question to answer-what should you leave "as is"? If you are in doubt, contact an expert, knowing that he may charge you several hundred dollars to evaluate the piece. If you buy regularly from a knowledgeable antiques dealer, he may give you an opinion for little or no cost. If the item is one you see at most antique shows and shops, you can bet it is safe to restore it yourself. If it is something you've never seen, and you don't want to hire an appraiser, look for it on the internet and at the public library.

I can tell you some things I don't think you should strip and refinish. These would be furniture with its original paint, even if it is almost half missing. Usually these will be primitive items such as pie safes, cupboards,tables and chairs. Also, the wood beneath the paint will most often be pine, poplar or a mixture of woods.