Part III - The Finish
Now that you have removed the old finish and
prepared your piece by sanding and going over the surface with steel wool
until the wood is smooth and free of any residue of the old finish or stripping
chemical (wiping down the entire piece with a soft rag dipped in mineral
spirits works well), it is time to decide what type of finish you want to
use to enhance the beauty of your newly discovered wood.
The color of the stain is a personal choice.
Considerations may be the style or period of the furniture, the type
of wood or just your own preference. I have often used products by
a local manufacturer, ZAR stains and polyurethanes, manufactured by United Gilsonite Laboratories.
Your final protective finish is another choice which must be made.
Do you wish to use an up to date polyurethane coating or possibly a more authentic
hand rubbed finish?
To complete your project vintage reproductions of antique
hardware definitely compliment an 'older' piece. I have purchased hardware
from D. Lawless Hardware
and find almost endless choices. There is no minimum order, however
a fee is charged for small orders. This is not a major drawback because their
prices are very low making the fee reasonable. Another site offering
vintage hardware is Antique Hardware
& Home.