pollyscrab
Jan 20, 2007, 11:07 PM
I have found an old trundle sewing machine. The veneer has been water damaged and is going to have to be replaced. I want to know specifically how to put veneer down, how to cut it so it fits exactly, how to glue it and anything else I need to know.
pollyscrab
Father Mike
Feb 9, 2007, 10:25 AM
Before I would go through all that trouble I would ask myself 1 question... Is the sewing machine worth it? I have found one of the most abundant "antiques" out there are old sewing machines. Therefore relatively inexpensive... I could not give them away during my days as a antique shop owner.
Clough
Mar 27, 2007, 12:53 PM
You may have already found the answer to your question. But, just in case you haven't here it is.
I am a professional furniture refinisher. Have done a lot of work with veneers.
You can purchase veneer that already has glue on the back that you use a hot iron to fasten it to the wood, veneer that already has an adhesive and you just press it in place, and veneer that has no glue or adhesive; you need to put the glue on yourself.
My personal preference is the kind that already has the glue on it. You work from one end to the other when applying it, or from the inside out. The trick is to avoid any bubbles. You also need to let a little bit of what you have first ironed dry for a short while, otherwise the veneer piece may move.
Don't know if your job is to cover an entire side or top or just a small piece of those areas.
Depending on the size of the veneer that I am working with, I just use regular, big scissors to cut basic sizes and shapes and single-edged razor blades to trim edges. The edges will need to be sanded lightly after that.
Real wood veneer is expensive. So, some thought is necessary as to what the value of this piece is to the customer. And, I am not necessarily talking about value in the terms of dollars, but that may be a factor.
True, trundle sewing machines might not be worth a lot of money. But, the cabinetry on some of them can be absolutely beautiful! They can make a nice, small desk if the sewing part of the machine is the kind that can be lowered into the case. Also, depending on the type of wood and color, they can be used to compliment other furnishings in a room.