Q–There is a small gouge in the top of my beautiful old coffee table. This piece has an otherwise gorgeous finish–and great sentimental value. Is there any way this gouge can be filled in to make it less noticeable, without refinishing the entire top?
A–Professionals use colored shellac sticks, which are sold in some paint stores and in many woodworking supply houses that cater to furniture finishers. They come in a wide variety of wood tones, so select one to match the finish you’re trying to repair.
A flexible metal “burn-in” knife is then used to melt and apply the colored shellac. (As an alternative, you can use a grapefruit knife or artist’s palette knife.) Heat the blade in the flame of a soot-free alcohol lamp or butane lighter, then press it against the end of the shellac stick so the melting shellac drips into the gouge. Then reheat the knife and use it to smooth out the shellac without spreading it onto the surrounding area. Use a cloth moistened with alcohol to wipe off excess if necessary.
(It’s best to practice this procedure on a scrap wood surface before tackling an important piece of furniture).
Q–One small area on my living room ceiling starts to peel some months after it has been painted. There is no sign of moisture or water-staining and the rest of the ceiling seems OK. What should I do to prevent this from happening again?
A–There is apparently something in the drywall (or plaster) in that area that keeps the paint from adhering properly. I suggest using a paint remover to strip off all of the old paint in that section. Then apply a coat of special stain-killing primer to the ceiling. After this dries, you can repaint as usual.
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Have a question about home repair problems? Write to Bernard Gladstone in care of Your Place, Chicago Tribune, 435 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, Ill. 60611. Questions of general interest will be answered in future columns.
