This desk is now for sale, in California (work with your shipper/pick up) $999 as estate item.
Original Blog Post by Dennis, March 1, 2012:
We came into possession of a large desk (68 by 34″) that had been used as an arts & crafts table for many years and was being thrown out. The owner loved the table and had gotten an estimate for a refurbish – she was told that refinishing it would cost well over $800 due to its condition. She decided to buy something new instead. Since we were up for the challenge, we decided to keep it out of the garbage and try to restore this 50’s – 60’s workhorse!
The table top was wrecked – so bad that I didn’t take a “before” photo – with paint and water stains, several shellacs and stains. After a thoroughly stripping, we were surprised at the beautiful veneer grain – a “book match” pattern, where alternating pieces of woodare flipped over so they face each other like pages in a book. This pattern is a favorite as it is symmetrical and visually pleasing.
A thorough bleaching got rid of the water stains and brought out the original highlights. The square legs were quite beat up, and missing 3 of the 2″ high, square brass end caps.
After considering our options, including making new brass caps, we decided the table would be more representative of its era with a modern update if we were to taper the legs instead.
My wife then did her usual superb job with stain and oil and wow!
The table turned out so beautiful that I removed a “built-in” desk in my office and now use this new-found treasure.
Wow! You’re quite the crafty couple – it looks beautiful. Great job!