Dark-colored chests of drawers with thick layers of varnish always carry a stately, classical charm. However, as time goes by, the thick varnish can obscure the beauty of the wood’s natural grain.
Bokto recently restored a set of dark-colored drawers, consisting of one large six-drawer chest and two smaller two-drawer chests. The original varnish had shown clear signs of wear and aging. Our client hoped to breathe new life into these valuable pieces while also revealing their natural textures.
Sanding Off the Varnish: Revealing the True Beauty of the Wood
The first step was for Bokto’s skilled woodworkers to carefully sand off the original thick varnish coating. This process required extensive experience to ensure the wood surface was protected from damage while properly removing the old finish.
Once the protective varnish was thoroughly sanded off, the original wood grain of the chests became visible, showcasing the wood’s vintage texture and natural patterns, which was truly stunning.
Reapplying the Finish: Transparent Varnish for a Fresh Look
After removing the deep purple-colored varnish, the next step was to reapply a new coat of finish. We chose a transparent protective varnish, which not only effectively shields the wood from moisture and warping but also allows the natural grain to shine through. This treatment gave the furniture a fresh, modern look while preserving its classic design.
A Fresh Start: The Modern Rebirth of Old Furniture
Upon completing the restoration, the six-drawer and two-drawer chests were transformed, with their appearance and texture refreshed. They retained their classical elegance while gaining a modern touch. The transparent protective varnish highlighted every grain and detail of the wood, reflecting Bokto’s dedication to craftsmanship—allowing old furniture to continue shining in a new era.
Bokto is committed to providing the highest quality woodworking restoration services for our clients. We believe that every piece of furniture tells a story, and our job is to ensure these stories continue to unfold and be rediscovered.
