Friend has asked me to "help" restore this oval table that is veneer and what appears to be leather.
The existing finish appears to be shellac. The surround and apron are veneer. The veneer repair is no problem; alcohol rub down, reglue, then fill, restain, and shellac. I'm concerned about what appears to be leather. The are a number of blemishes and dings that I won't mess with, but I wondering if I can/should top-coat the whole piece or just the veneer.
Suggestions based on experience are welcome.
TIA
Refinishing Leather?
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Re: Refinishing Leather?
#2I have no experience specific to table tops, but I do know leather will move more than wood and will flex under pressure. Shellac on it will be likely to craze and flake. I would clean the top with saddle soap to restore some luster and flexibility and provide some water-proofing. I'm not sure about the gold-colored detail; first, test it to be sure the saddle soap won't damage it.
Re: Refinishing Leather?
#3Thanks, Dave
That was pretty much the plan. The leather was a fine web of cracks, so wax will fill them better than a film finish. The mahogany veneer is not in good shape including a couple of ham-handed prior repairs that have to be dealt with. The pedestal lag set will get an alcohol bath and several coats of dark shellac.