Document and Assess
2 hoursPhotograph all angles, identify period, wood species, and original vs later upholstery layers.
Field context
This workflow is part of 1 niche field
Learn antique chair restoration from scratch with a clear step-by-step workflow, recommended tools, safety guidelines, and expert tips.
Photograph all angles, identify period, wood species, and original vs later upholstery layers.
Reglue joints with hide glue, replace missing dowels matching original construction methods.
Recreate historically accurate stuffing, show fabrics, or conservation-friendly neutral muslin.
Apply appropriate wax or shellac to exposed wood; compile treatment report for provenance file.
AIC guidelines favor minimal intervention and reversibility on museum-quality pieces.
Pre-1978 painted frames may contain lead — test before sanding.
Test chair under gradual weight — brittle legs fail without warning.
Methylene chloride strippers toxic — professional only in ventilated booth.