How to Repair the Veneer on an Antique Wooden Chest

Antique wooden chests can provide an old-time feel for a room in your house. Unfortunately, antique furniture sometimes shows its age with cracked veneer. Restore the beauty of your antique chest by repairing its veneer. If a chest has cracks in the wood, loose hinges or structural problems, it may require further repairs. Fix additional damage before repairing the veneer. Severe problems may require the assistance of a professional or someone with carpentry experience.

Veneer
320-grit sandpaper
Cloth
Water
Hide glue
Router with a 3/4'' bit

Instructions

- 1
  Purchase "flexible veneer." This veneer is about 1/60th inch thick and fits most wooden chests. Find veneer online or at home improvement stores.
- 2
  Clean the chest by wiping it with a damp cloth.
- 3
  Cut away the damaged veneer using a router with a 3/4'' bit. Run the router across the damaged area of the chest, using straight, short strokes.
- 4
  Sand the damaged area of the chest using 320-grit sandpaper. Rub the sandpaper across the surface of the chest, using a circular motion.
- 5
  Trace the shape of the sanded portion of the chest using a pencil and paper. Cut out this shape and trace it onto the new veneer. Cut the new veneer into the shape.
- 6
  Apply hide glue to the sanded portion of the chest.
- 7
  Press the veneer into the chest. Sand the edge of the new veneer using 320-grit sandpaper until the edge is level with the veneer on the chest. Gentle sanding helps even out the seams, making the new veneer blend in with the old.

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