I have acquired an older walnut roll top desk in need of restoration. Many of the side panels, the tambour, and all drawers are missing. I intend to strip the old finish from the original desk components prior to creating the missing pieces with walnut I’ve just purchased. Anyone have a suggestion of how I might best blend the finish of new walnut sections with those of the older walnut carcase?
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The older walnut will likely have faded considerably--becoming more amber or tan, that the newer walnut which could even be purple in shade, and is likely to be darker. While you could dye/stain the old to match the new, I wouldn't recomment it. I would strongly consider bleaching the new walnut--using a two part wood bleach, which will remove much of the wood color, and then redye and then stain it to match the older walnut. It will take quite a bit of experimentation, and a good eye for color, but can yield excellent resutl..
Appreciate the suggestion. Will refinish the existing walnut pieces first and as new ones are created will match them. Also appreciate the reminder of testing first--it's easy to get excited and sprint where more measured steps are needed.
I would suggest stripping the parts you have - fabricate and place all the new parts into the desk - then wet all the wood at the same time to see what needs adjustment -
SA
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