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I have a house from the turn of the century, with lots of semi-ornate dark mahogony-look woodwork which seems like it is made from a variety of woods. I think the finish may be a shellac; it is on the surface only, seems to rub off with water, has dark spots where heat (fireplace or candles) has hit it, and was originally quite shiny. Now it is blotchy, dull, chipped, etc.. Recent plaster work has dulled it further. I am afraid to get aggressive about cleaning it. The wood beneath is very dry. I cannot strip, oil and refinish all this stuff. What to do?
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Replies
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I wonder if Howard's Restor-a-Finish would perk it up? It does wonders for furniture in that need. It would be cheap also.
*Try the product Gretchen mentioned, or try some Mylands or Fidde's wax. Nothing will make it perfect again other than stripping, sanding, and refinishing. An old house looks silly with perfect woodwork.
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