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Help cleaning and restoring an antique picture frame?
A family heirloom painting has found it's way into my hands, but the paint on the frame is in sad condition. I am wanting to at least clean it up without removing any of the flaking paint. The problem is that it wasnt well cared for the last several years, so there is a build up in the carved crevices. Also part of the carved decoration is aged to the point that it is looking more like porous driftwood than anything. Any advice on working with this?
2 Answers
- 1 decade agoFavorite Answer
first remove the painting/ portrait.... if its just dirt than lightly use oil soap /H2o using a paint brush , DO NOT SOAK IT / Damp it then sun dry prior to replacing center!
Removing the paint??? Try paint remover/ goof off/ fine sand paper or fine steal wool.
But is it all that bad???.........Its a family thing with some character
- 1 decade ago
Whoa. Part of the problem lies in the content of the flaking paint. You probably don't have any idea what type of wood is underneath, either.
I'd start with an artist's brush and gently brush away as much dirt as you can without damaging the underlying finish. One thing you definitely don't want to introduce to the surface of the frame is water or any harsh detergent.
That carved decoration might be an applique rather than carving, which means it could be subject to loosening ... I think I'd look up an antique dealer and ask if they can recommend a reputable restoration company. I'm not sure I'd try something like that by myself...but, then again, someone on Yahoo is probably far more wise than me!
Best wishes!
