How can I repair antique desk?

You will need a block of similar wood,as close as possible to origional.Cut out damaged area with a hand saw,so that it will be easy to fit another piece of wood tightly into the same area,usually a wedge or square shape.Cut your repair piece as closely as possible to fit into the slot.Epoxy, and clamp if possible,the repair block into place.Make sure the repair block is big enough to carve the origional design back in.When it is set up solidly,(this usually takes 24 hours)you can take a disc or belt sander to create a blank shape to start carving from.Then take a carving or dremel set(I recomend a carving set of chisels,if you have them)to duplicate origional design as close as possible..if you have not done this before(or even if you have)a practice block is recomended.You can trace the design out with a pencil to help guide you.That way you can get used to your tools and material.If you are not satisfied with your result ,don't worry!You can cut out the same area and try again!Use wood filler as needed.Sand and match finish as close as possible.BEST OF LUCK!!

raymonster
August 2009