For collectors and antique enthusiasts, the beauty of a vintage piece lies not only in its design but also in the richness of its finish. At ECR Antiques, we specialize in the lost art of traditional surface treatments—reviving aged wood, restoring depth and luster, and protecting finishes that have weathered time.
Serving clients throughout Manhattan and Queens, NY, our workshop offers expert care in techniques such as polishing wood veneer, French polishing, and wax finishes, using historically appropriate materials and methods trusted by conservators and museums worldwide.
How to Properly Polish Wood Veneer
Veneered furniture—particularly from the 18th and 19th centuries—demands a unique level of care. Unlike solid wood, veneers are thin layers delicately bonded to a substrate, making them especially vulnerable to heat, moisture, and abrasive cleaning.
At ECR Antiques, we use highly refined products and soft tools to polish wood veneer without damaging the surface or lifting the grain. Our process removes haze, minor scratches, and buildup while preserving the integrity and patina of the original finish. The result is a smooth, radiant surface that honors the piece’s age and history.
Traditional Materials, Modern Results
We’re proud to use time-tested materials in our finishing processes—materials that have been staples of traditional restoration for centuries. For example, Regency Micro-Crystalline Wax is a museum-grade product we frequently apply to protect and enhance delicate wood finishes. Unlike common waxes, it provides long-lasting protection without dulling the surface or altering its original color.
When restoring French-polished finishes or building them from scratch, we rely on Natural Orange Flake Shellac. This high-purity resin, dissolved in alcohol, creates a warm, glowing finish ideal for fine antique furniture. Its ability to accentuate grain depth and create a mirror-like surface is unparalleled.
Adhesives with Historical Integrity
For structural repairs, we favor materials that respect the original construction. Fish Glue, for instance, is a natural adhesive traditionally used in antique joinery and veneering. Its reversible properties make it ideal for conservation work, allowing future generations to restore or modify without damage.
Fish Glue offers excellent tack and flexibility, which helps maintain bond strength without compromising the wood’s movement or finish. It’s especially useful when repairing loose veneer or reattaching carved trim on delicate pieces.
Tools of the Trade: Cotton Cheesecloth and Walnut Crystals
Authenticity matters in surface finishing—not just in the materials, but in the application. When we perform French polishing, we exclusively use Cotton Cheesecloth, the traditional tool for building ultra-thin layers of shellac. Its fine weave allows for even distribution of the polish without streaks, and it conforms beautifully to intricate carvings and contours.
In some restoration cases, especially when revitalizing tired walnut finishes, we turn to Walnut Crystals. These water-soluble granules are used to revive the color of faded walnut without synthetic dyes or harsh chemicals. They restore richness and contrast while respecting the furniture’s original appearance—particularly helpful in blending repairs with untouched surfaces.
A Higher Standard of Restoration in NYC
Surface treatment is one of the most delicate stages of restoration. Done properly, it elevates a piece—highlighting craftsmanship, grain, and form. Done poorly, it can flatten or obscure a piece’s character entirely.
At ECR Antiques, we approach every finish with respect for the object’s age, function, and legacy. We don’t rush the process. Instead, we use layered, hand-applied techniques that restore radiance and beauty while protecting your piece for decades to come.
Preserving Beauty the Right Way
Whether you’re restoring a high-value antique or simply maintaining a family heirloom, our team brings the right knowledge, materials, and care to ensure the finish reflects the piece’s true character.
From polishing wood veneer to applying Regency Micro-Crystalline Wax, from Fish Glue repairs to the warmth of Natural Orange Flake Shellac, we bring old-world skill to every surface we touch.Contact ECR Antiques today to schedule a consultation. Let us show you how traditional finishing methods can preserve the beauty of your antiques—flawlessly and faithfully—in Manhattan and Queens, NY.