cover image Weekend Refinisher

Weekend Refinisher

Bruce E. Johnson. Ballantine Books, $15.95 (304pp) ISBN 978-0-345-35866-0

Anyone eager to restore a cherished piece of furniture will welcome this readable and informative guide. Comprehensive, jargon-free instructions demystify the refinishing process. Johnson, former owner of a refinishing shop, covers typical situations encountered by do-it-yourselfers: ventilation problems in basement workshops, selecting suitable tools and removing scratches or wax buildup. Even the experienced refinisher will save time and effort with Johnson's commonsensical tips. The chapter on repairing furniture gives straightforward directions for fixing such difficulties as broken drawers. Particularly useful is Johnson's advice on choosing the appropriate finish for a project. Detailed illustrations accompany descriptions of complex techniques, such as repairing chair-back supports. Also included are a list of mail-order sources for supplies and a glossary of woodworking terms. (Apr.)