Hello. My name is Erik Martin and I am a reporter for HomeStyle, a nationally syndicated home improvement/design section published weekly in newspapers across the country (visit omaha.com/inspiredhome for samples). I’m looking to interview woodworking experts, interior designers, home improvement experts, and homeowners for the following topic:
I WOOD IF I COULD: HOW TO PROPERLY RESTORE AN ANTIQUE WOOD PIECE (SANDING, STAINING, PREPPING ADVICE FOR AN ITEM LIKE AN ANTIQUE CHAIR, DRESSER, ETC.). This story will examine best techniques for restoring an antique/old wooden furniture piece like a chair, dresser, table, or cabinet (tips on sanding, staining, prepping, etc.). Below is a list of questions I’m seeking answers to. I can either conduct a phone or email interview (with the latter, please email me back full-sentence written responses that I can use as quotes). My deadline is noon central time,Tuesday, August 9.
QUESTIONS: 1. (THIS QUESTION FOR HOMEOWNERS ONLY) What wooden antique furniture piece did you restore/refinish yourself? How old is this item and how long have you owned it? Why did you choose to restore it? What kind of wood? What did you do to restore it (describe the process and materials involved)? Where did you place the restored piece? Any tips for fellow homeowners on why/how they should restore a wooden antique furniture piece? What is your full name, and city/state location? 2. (NEXT QUESTIONS ARE FOR THE EXPERTS) Why is it worth it to restore a wooden antique piece of furniture—especially one that is valuable, a family heirloom, or a rare/intricate piece? What kinds of wooden furniture items are worth restoring (any criteria here)? 3. Why should homeowners consider restoring the piece themselves, even if they have no experience (e.g., save money, build skills, take pride in their own work, etc.)? When is this project best handled by a professional vs. DIY? 4. In detailed order, what are the steps involved (e.g., sanding/stripping, filling, polishing, staining, etc.) in restoring/refinishing a wooden furniture piece? How long can this process take? 5. Are there different steps required for different types of wood? How do you determine the type of wood if you’re not sure, and why is this important? 6. What materials/products are required for this job (e.g., sandpaper/sander, wood putty, stain, veneer, etc.)? What should homeowners budget for this project (low to high range)? 7. What should homeowners be especially careful about and/or avoid when attempting a wood restoration project? What can go wrong? 8. Any other thoughts, tips or suggestions on this topic? 9. What is your full name, title, company, city/state location, and email address?
Keywords
woodworking experts, interior designers, home improvement experts, homeowners
