The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Hey Guys, I have a lot of wood fruniture pieces, besides my phonogrpahs. I was wandering what would be best to use on them. My record cabinet that my Victrola is sitting on the venner is puckering. Also it's very dry in my condo, and I have not protected the wood. My father suggested a wood polish with oil in it? I also read about useing a paste wax as well? Please help?


Paul

Paul,

I tend to favor Old English Lemon Oil for furniture, but perhaps other people have better suggestions for on your phonographs.

I haven’t had to deal with puckering veneer, but I would guess that you would want to re-glue it (and make sure you get a second opinion on it before following my suggestions).

I definitely think we have some very talented members when it comes to restoring the finish on wood.

— MordEth

Thank you David.

Paul

Also—on the veneer, you might photograph and post it; in my experience, most of the time being able to see the problem results in better advice.

I think that John had some directions on fixing veneer somewhere that I had read...

— MordEth

Yea, I'll do just that. I thought I remember seeing that thread somewhere? I thinks, it's becuse it's so dry in my house.

paul

Paul,

Either should be fine. I recall reading somewhere, (I think it was in the furniture doctor), that oils and liquid wax would attrack more dirt faster than a harder paste wax. Makes sense.

I have used both and are pleased with both. I'll have to wait another 80 years to prove or disprove the oil attracts more dirt faster theory.

Brad

Paul,

The oiling surely can be helpful but another thing you may want to to do is get a good quality humidity gauge, if you don't have one and see just how dry your condo really is. If it's below about 35%,(and it probably is) purchase a humidifier with a sensor and set it at between 35-45%. That would be ideal. If you are in a very cold climate you may have to set it somewhat lower and live with it. The humidifier should have instructions on recommended settings in your region too. This should help prevent warping or keep current warping from getting worse.

I've notices in some of the
the museums, especially musical instrument museums you will often see a small humidifer running next to some valuable instrument for that reason.

Cheers,
bruce

Cheers, Bruce

Thanks for the information guys.

Paul