The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Hi folks,

An elementary question for the seasoned furniture refinishers among us.

I have a small 4-leg oak side table I'm going to strip (it was painted long ago) and refinish. The top is veneered with a piece of thick veneer (one piece; ⅛" thick), in which one edge has come loose along it's entirety (with the grain -- not against).

I do not want to remove the piece, but want to merely reglue it back down.

My question is: should I glue it down BEFORE, or AFTER stripping? My worry is residue from the stripper causing issues with the adhesion.

Thank you,
Fran

My opinion - Before...

You are correct - before. I always make small repairs prior to stripping to preclude the stripper from seeping under the veneer and causing problems. Depending on how large a section needs to be repaired, I lift the section in question, clean the area of old adhesive, and then hold it open enough to apply contact cement using a thin knife blade. Good luck. Cheers


Bill K

Thank you, Curt and Bill.

I had a feeling after I examined the culprit, but just wanted to make sure I wasn't headed in the wrong direction.

Best,
Fran

You may want to allow some extra drying time before you refinish to make sure all is dry. I usually allow at least 24 to 48 hours depending on how big a repair it was. It may not need it but I do not like to rush it. Good luck Tom B

While we are on veneer thought I would post a few photos of a Edison Chalet I did years ago New veneer on top and the sides were flapping the wind..

Bill K