Furniture, Wood and Cabinetry Finishing - Unfinished cherry chest

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dmsmith2
02-11-06, 10:16 PM
My grandfather built a cedar lined blanket chest using cherry wood a number of years ago. He didn't finish the wood at all, saying that the wood would darken and look nicer over time and then finish. All these years later, the wood is shrinking and the dovetailing is coming apart. This is a very important piece to me and I'd love some advice on what to do to preserve it. Thanks.

marksr
02-12-06, 05:11 PM
Sounds like it was built with air dried [instead of kiln] wood. I doubt it will shrink any more. Depending on the severity of the shrinkage you may be able to use colored putty or wood filler, you will want to be sure to match the repairs to the color of the wood.
dmsmith2
02-13-06, 07:02 AM
Okay, thanks. I'll try to fill and then finish it. Would polyurethane be appropriate?

marksr
02-13-06, 09:38 AM
Poly would be fine. Make sure all the repair work is done and the right color before sealing with poly.