Antique furniture may require veneer repairs.
Wood veneer covers lesser wood or ugly joints to create the illusion of solid hardwood. This is a very common technique on antique furniture. Through changes in temperature and humidity the veneer frequently lifts, especially along the edges, and may require gluing. Use ordinary wood glue to make this repair. Since old veneer can be brittle and stubborn, press it gently and leave all clamps in place until it is thoroughly set to prevent it lifting again.
Instructions
1. Lift the edge of the veneer as far back as possible. Use a razor scraper to scrape any glue residue or other debris from the mounting surface under the veneer. Sand the surface lightly with emery cloth. Sand the bottom surface of the veneer as well to remove crusted glue.
2. Dip an art brush into your wood glue and apply a thin coat to the mounting surface underneath the veneer. Overlap your strokes to ensure complete coverage. Wipe off any excess with a soft, damp rag. Press the veneer over the glue and place a piece of wax paper on top to cover the repair area and prevent the glue adhering to your block and clamps.
3. Position a block of 3/4-inch plywood a little larger than the repair area on top of the wax paper, centered over the repair area. Use quick grip style clamps to press down the plywood, holding the veneer flat. Wipe off any glue seepage with the damp rag.
4. Clamp the plywood in place for 24 hours to allow the glue to set completely. Remove the clamps and plywood. Lift the wax paper from the surface. Sand the edge of the repair if needed with the emery cloth.
Tags: repair area, emery cloth, mounting surface, with emery, with emery cloth, wood glue