I have some old Wegner CH 22 arm chairs that I am about to have reweaved and have the finish touched up and I am in a quandry. They look unfinished and dry current, likely due to having a soap finish? Its hard to tell. I bought them with the intention of getting the unfinished look - perhaps with a soap or waxed finish. However, there is definitely some dirt and few dents in spots and they look a bit worn, but not terrible. One option is to sand down the chairs and due a wax finish and the other is to go with a light oil. Any idea how to decide between the two? These are valuable chairs and I dont want to loose too much of the antique quality...
They went to my refinisher so I dont have any pictures...
Wood type?
Generally, oil will darken bare wood much more than soap or wax, though all three require regular maintenance and most species will darken with age no matter the finish.
Personally, I think a soap finish looks great on oak. Wax adds a little sheen, and oil some depth and color.
I prefer soap, also.
but you can always Google "waxed oak finishes".
Best,
Aunt Mark
http://www.google.com/search?q=waxed+oak+finish+images&client=safari&rls...
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