I found out this desk I bought to restore does not have a slate inlay top as I thought, but just a very thin (1/4″?) layer of destroyed black masonite or something, over 1″ plywood. I removed some molding to inspect. So now I want to remake the top. I could try prying off the top layer, but what do I replace it with? I could replace the entire 4’x3′ top with plywood and molding, but I would prefer to make a solid top, probably with mahogany. But I’ve never edge joined, don’t have a joiner, and don’t know much about planing, which I assume will be necessary after glue up. I’m pretty careful, and willing to spend about $100 on this project, but how do-able is it? I’m game to learn along the way, but what are the biggest challenges? Is there some middle ground, i.e., plywood with a thin layer of mahogany, or something similar? Ready willing and …. Todd
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Why don't you just replace it with tempered hardboard (masonite) like was done originally. Its not that expensive and seems to have served well in the past. Its simple to cut with a circular saw, (the dust is horrible so wear a mask).
I mean, why not.. its not the great find that you thought it was but its still functional and who knows, it may turn out to be a real gem.
Cuttoff, I'm not sure I can remove the old masonite so easily, though I suppose I could try to repair any damage. Or maybe you're suggesting starting over with new plywood as well. Then, I'm not sure I've seen black masonite around, just the usual brown. Is it available, or would this require some painting? Thanks for the response. Todd
Todd, sounds like you have three choices -
1. Epoxy fill the dings and repaint with chalkboard paint.
2. Replace the underlayment and the hardboard top then repaint with chalboard paint.
3. Dump the hardboard and current underlayment then replace them with plywood and real slate. Pool table sales and repair shops are a good source for used slate.
I'm not sure I've seen black masonite around, just the usual brown
Didn't realize you had started this over here. As I suggested go to a formica dealer and see the array of things you can put in. They definitely have a slate look-alike.Gretchen
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