Mid-Century Teak & Walnut Restoration

Figure 1: Stripping old yellowed polyurethane from a 1960s Ole Wanscher credenza top.

Course Overview & Learning Objectives

Mid-century modern timber pieces from Scandinavian and American manufacturers rely heavily on paper-thin veneers glued over solid core lumber. Standard modern sanding techniques will quickly burn through these delicate outer veneers, destroying the original piece forever.

In this comprehensive 12-part video series, Master Restorer Julian Vance walks you through non-abrasive chemical stripping, edge veneer iron-on patching, color matching with alcohol dyes, and applying breathable, museum-grade teak oil coats.

Detailed Curriculum Breakdown

Module 1: Substrate Identification & Assessment

Learn how to distinguish solid teak from teak veneer, evaluate water ring depth using UV light, and check drawer dovetails for hide-glue degradation.

Module 2: Solvent Stripping Without Grain Swelling

Step-by-step application of citrus-based strippers vs. spirit solvents. How to remove old lacquer without lifting underlying veneer glues.

Module 3: Veneer Edge Repair & Grain Matching

Sourcing vintage veneer sheets, cutting grain-matched butterfly patches, and clamping techniques using hide glue and hot irons.

Module 4: Traditional Oil Penetration & Wax Sealing

Formulating custom boiled linseed, tung oil, and mineral spirit blends to nourish dried teak fibers without creating sticky surface buildup.