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French Polishing vs Modern Finishes What is the Difference and Which Is Right for Your Furniture?

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 10:26:11 GMT

When furniture begins to look tired, scratched, or marked, one of the most common questions we hear is simple.

Should this be French polished, or finished using a modern alternative?

At Kendal Restoration, we use both traditional and modern finishing methods. Each has genuine advantages. The right choice depends on the furniture itself, how it is constructed, how it is used, and what outcome you want.

This guide explains the differences clearly so you can make an informed decision before committing to restoration work.

What Is French Polishing?

French polishing is a traditional hand applied finish using shellac. The finish is built up by hand in many very thin layers using a polishing rubber, allowing the natural character of the wood to remain visible.

French polishing is known for:

Depth and warmth of finish
Enhancing wood grain rather than masking it
Long term repairability rather than replacement

It has been used for centuries on fine furniture and remains one of the most sympathetic finishes for quality pieces.

What Are Modern Furniture Finishes?

Modern furniture finishes include:

Lacquers
Polyurethane and water based coatings
Spray applied finishes

These finishes are designed for durability, consistency, and efficiency. They are widely used on contemporary furniture and in commercial environments where wear resistance is critical.

Appearance Differences

French Polishing

French polishing produces a warm, natural appearance. The finish reveals grain, figuring, and subtle variations in the wood. It suits both high gloss and softer traditional sheens depending on the desired result.

Modern Finishes

Modern finishes create a more uniform surface. The look is typically flat, controlled, and consistent. This suits minimalist or contemporary interiors where variation is less desirable.

Durability and Everyday Use

French Polishing

French polishing is durable when correctly applied and cared for, but it is more sensitive to heat, alcohol, and standing moisture. White heat marks and water rings can occur if furniture is unprotected.

Modern Finishes

Modern finishes are highly resistant to heat, spills, and daily wear. They are often the better option for frequently used dining tables, offices, or commercial furniture. Modern finishes can be achieved to match the look of French polish.

Repair and Long Term Maintenance

French Polishing

One of the key advantages of French polishing is repairability. Scratches, wear, and local damage can usually be blended without stripping the entire surface.

This is particularly valuable for antiques or furniture with veneer and inlay.

Modern Finishes

Modern finishes are harder to repair discreetly. Damage often requires sanding larger areas or refinishing the whole surface to maintain consistency.

French polished furniture benefits from considered aftercare:

Gentle cleaning only
Avoiding heat sources and prolonged moisture
Protection from direct sunlight

We provide detailed aftercare advice here:
Aftercare for Restored Furniture

Modern finishes require less careful handling but still benefit from sensible use.

Unsure Which Finish Is Right?

Every piece is different, our team is happy to advise on the most suitable finishing method. Please contact us to discuss your furniture.

Framing with Purpose, Championing Sustainability

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 11:45:00 GMT

At Kendal Restoration, we believe that every frame should reflect not only the beauty of the object it holds, but the integrity of the materials behind it. That’s why we choose to work with suppliers who share our values—craftsmanship, responsibility, and care for the planet.

Two of our most trusted partners, Lion Picture Framing and Larson-Juhl, are leading the way in sustainable sourcing. Their commitment to ethical practices ensures that every moulding, mount, and material we use is as thoughtful as the restoration itself.

Lion Picture Framing: Practical Sustainability with a Local Focus

Lion PF has built its reputation on quality and innovation, with sustainability woven into its operations. Their approach is grounded in transparency and practicality, making it easy for framers and restorers to make responsible choices.

• FSC-certified timber: Lion prioritises mouldings made from wood sourced from responsibly managed forests. This ensures that every frame supports long-term forest health and biodiversity.

• Low-impact finishes: Many of their products use water-based or low-VOC coatings, reducing harmful emissions and improving indoor air quality.

• Efficient packaging: Lion uses recyclable and minimal packaging, helping reduce waste across the supply chain.

• UK-based distribution: By sourcing and distributing locally where possible, Lion reduces transport emissions and supports British manufacturing.

Their sustainability efforts are practical and accessible, allowing small workshops like ours to make better choices without compromising on quality.

Larson-Juhl: Global Leadership in Ethical Framing

As one of the world’s largest framing suppliers, Larson-Juhl brings scale and influence to sustainable sourcing. Their commitment spans continents, with a focus on long-term environmental stewardship.

• Certified wood sourcing: Larson-Juhl uses FSC and PEFC-certified timber across its product lines, ensuring traceability and ethical forestry practices.

• Eco-conscious manufacturing: Their facilities are designed to minimise energy use, with many operating on renewable energy and implementing waste-reduction programmes.

• Recycled and sustainable mouldings: Larson-Juhl offers mouldings made from recycled materials and sustainably harvested wood, combining style with responsibility.

• Reforestation and conservation: Through partnerships and internal initiatives, they actively support tree planting and forest conservation efforts worldwide.

Their global reach allows them to set high standards across the industry, and we’re proud to bring their products into our local projects.

What This Means for Our Clients

When you choose Kendal Restoration, you’re not just investing in craftsmanship—you’re supporting a supply chain that values sustainability, ethics, and transparency. Whether we’re framing a family heirloom or a contemporary print, we select materials that reflect your values and ours.

• You receive a product made from responsibly sourced wood

• You support suppliers who care about the planet and future generations

• You enjoy a frame that’s beautiful, durable, and ethically made

Sustainability in framing isn’t a trend—it’s a responsibility. By partnering with Lion PF and Larson-Juhl, we ensure that every detail of your restoration is rooted in care, from the materials we choose to the stories we help preserve.

At Kendal Restoration, framing with purpose means framing with integrity.

Hamilton Billiards and Kendals Restoration

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 18:00:01 GMT

At Kendals Restoration, we know that true craftsmanship is never rushed. It lives in the careful sanding of a timeworn chair leg, the sympathetic repair of a marquetry inlay, and the final polish that brings a piece back to life. That same reverence for detail and tradition runs through our sister company, Hamilton Billiards . They specialise in handcrafted snooker, pool, and billiard tables, along with the cues, accessories, and restorations that complete the experience.

A Shared Philosophy: Restore, Refine, Reimagine

Hamilton Billiards has been crafting and restoring billiard tables for over 40 years. Their reputation is built on British heritage, precision joinery, and bespoke design. Their work spans full-size antique snooker tables, compact pool tables for modern homes, and everything in between. Each piece is tailored to the client’s space, style, and vision.

Much like our own approach to furniture restoration, Hamilton’s team treats every table as a legacy item. Whether it is a Victorian slate-bed table or a contemporary commission, the process is hands-on and heartfelt. From re-polishing hardwood frames to re-covering playing surfaces with tournament-grade cloth, their restorations preserve character while enhancing performance.

Beyond the Table: Cues, Accessories, and Atmosphere

Hamilton Billiards offers more than tables. Their curated range of cues, cue racks, scoreboards, lighting, and accessories ensures every game is played in style. These are not off-the-shelf additions. They are crafted to complement the table and the room, often made to order in finishes that echo the woodwork and design details of the main piece.

It is a philosophy we share at Kendals. Just as a restored armchair deserves the right fabric and finish, a billiards table deserves accessories that feel intentional, elegant, and enduring. We have collaborated on projects where our furniture restoration expertise supports Hamilton’s vision. This includes refinishing antique cue racks and restoring companion furniture such as benches, cabinets, and side tables that complete the games room aesthetic.

Restoration as Storytelling

Both Kendals and Hamilton Billiards approach restoration as a form of storytelling. A billiards table is not just a playing surface. It is a centrepiece, a conversation starter, and a slice of history. Likewise, a restored sideboard or dining chair carries the marks of its past and the promise of its future.

We have seen first hand how a sympathetic restoration can transform a space. Whether it is a billiards room brought back to its former glory or a family heirloom given new life, the goal is always the same. We honour the original while making it ready for years to come.

Visit Hamilton Billiards

If you are considering a bespoke table, restoring a family piece, or simply want to explore the world of cues and accessories, we wholeheartedly recommend a visit to hamiltonbilliards.com or our showroom in Baldock. Their team is as passionate about quality and service as we are. Together, we are proud to offer a seamless experience across furniture and billiards restoration.

Why Leather Accreditation Matters in Upholstery and Restoration

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 10:02:57 GMT

When it comes to restoring or upholstering furniture, leather is often the material of choice for its durability, elegance, and timeless appeal. But not all leather is created equal, and for discerning clients, leather accreditation is more than a label. It is a mark of quality, ethics, and trust.

What Is Leather Accreditation

Leather accreditation refers to certification systems that verify the origin, processing, and sustainability of leather products. These accreditations ensure that the leather used in furniture, fashion, and interiors meets rigorous standards for:

• Material quality such as grain, finish, and durability

• Environmental impact including responsible tanning and waste management

• Animal welfare through traceable sourcing and ethical farming

• Labour practices that support fair working conditions in production

Organisations like the Leather Working Group and OEKO-TEX Leather Standard are leading the way in promoting transparency and accountability across the leather supply chain.

Why It Matters for Clients

At Kendal Restoration, we believe that every detail matters, from the stitching on a vintage armchair to the ethics behind the materials we use. Leather accreditation offers peace of mind for clients who care about:

• Longevity: Accredited leather is tested for wear, tear, and UV resistance, ensuring your restored piece lasts for years

• Safety: Certified leather is free from harmful chemicals and meets strict safety standards, especially important for homes with children or pets

• Sustainability: Choosing accredited leather supports eco-conscious practices and reduces the environmental footprint of your restoration project

• Provenance: Accreditation provides traceability, so you know exactly where your leather came from and how it was processed

Accreditation vs Marketing Claims

It is easy to be swayed by terms like "genuine leather" or "eco-friendly finish," but without formal accreditation, these claims can be misleading. Leather accreditation cuts through the noise, offering verified assurance rather than vague promises.

Our Commitment at Kendal Restoration

We source leather from suppliers who meet recognised accreditation standards, ensuring every project reflects our commitment to quality, ethics, and craftsmanship. Whether you are restoring a family heirloom or commissioning a bespoke piece, we will guide you through fabric and leather choices with transparency and care.

Final Thoughts

Leather accreditation is not just a technicality. It is a reflection of values. For clients who want beauty without compromise, it is the difference between good and exceptional. At Kendal Restoration, we are proud to offer materials and methods that honour both tradition and responsibility.

Framing the Unframeable: Shaped Mounts for Unusual Objects

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 12:18:33 GMT

Not everything fits inside a neat rectangle and at Kendals Framing , that’s exactly where the challenge (and the creativity) begins. Whether it’s a vintage tennis racket, a curved heirloom brooch, or a badge collection that sprawls in asymmetrical glory, our custom-shaped mounts are designed to cradle objects that defy convention.

Framing Challenges We Solve

Here are some examples of what we’re asked to frame and how shaped mounts bring them to life:

Sports memorabilia : Football boots, tennis rackets, medals arranged in a dynamic arc
Tools or instruments : Brass gauges, pliers, or watch parts in thematic layouts
Fashion accessories : Necklaces or brooches styled in visual waves or clusters
Historic artifacts : Keys, letters, coins or map fragments placed in layered storyboards

These items often come with complex silhouettes , so standard mounts just won't do. We use CNC-guided cutting to create accurate contours or layered recesses, making sure each object feels intentionally placed — not forced in.

How Shaped Mounting Works

The process starts with a visual consultation. We assess the object's size, curvature, and desired orientation. Then:

We digitise the object's outline to guide the cutting software
Custom apertures are designed to complement both form and function
Grooves or multi-layer structures are added if extra depth or support is needed
Mountboard finishes are chosen to match the item’s tone — from subtle conservation-grade hues to bold accents for retail or branding impact

When Function Meets Flair

These frames are more than display cases — they’re storytelling devices. A well-shaped mount lets the item “breathe,” offering the right space around each edge while creating a visually balanced layout. And for high-value or fragile items, we incorporate invisible support structures or protective recesses that preserve integrity without compromising aesthetics.

Choosing the Perfect Fabric for Furniture Upholstery

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 10:00:01 GMT

When it comes to upholstering your furniture, the choice of fabric plays a crucial role in both aesthetics and functionality.

At Kendals, we offer expert advice to help you select the perfect upholstery fabric that suits your style and needs.

Understanding Fabric Types There are various fabric types to consider for furniture upholstery, each with its own unique characteristics. Here's a quick overview:

Cotton: Known for its softness and breathability, cotton is a versatile choice for upholstery. It's available in a wide range of patterns and colours.
Linen: A natural fibre that's durable and strong, linen offers a crisp, clean look. It's perfect for a light and airy feel.
Velvet: Luxurious and plush, velvet adds a touch of elegance to any piece of furniture. It's ideal for creating a cosy and sophisticated atmosphere.
Leather: Durable and timeless, leather upholstery is easy to clean and adds a classic touch to your furniture.
Synthetic Fabrics: Materials like polyester and nylon are highly durable and stain-resistant, making them great for high-traffic areas.

Considering Durability and Maintenance When choosing upholstery fabric, it's important to consider how the furniture will be used and maintained:

High-Traffic Areas: For furniture in high-traffic areas, opt for durable and stain-resistant fabrics like synthetic blends or leather.
Ease of Cleaning: Consider fabrics that are easy to clean and maintain, especially if you have pets or children.
Fade Resistance: If your furniture will be exposed to direct sunlight, choose fade-resistant fabrics to maintain their colour and vibrancy.

Matching Your Style Your choice of fabric should reflect your personal style and the overall aesthetic of your home:

Traditional: Classic fabrics like velvet and damask add a touch of sophistication to traditional interiors.
Modern: Sleek and minimalistic designs benefit from fabrics like linen and cotton in neutral tones.
Eclectic: Mix and match patterns and textures to create a unique and vibrant look.

Seeking Professional Advice At Kendals, our experts are here to help you make the best fabric choices for your furniture. We take into account your lifestyle, preferences, and the specific needs of each piece and with more than 200 sample books from over 20 suppliers to browse at our showroom you can ensure a perfect match.

Choosing the right fabric for furniture upholstery can elevate the look and feel of your home. Trust Kendals to provide expert guidance and high-quality upholstery services.

Exploring the Art of Marquetry: A Guide from Kendals Restoration

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 12:35:09 GMT

Expert Furniture Restoration and Reupholstery in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire

Marquetry, the art of applying pieces of veneer to create decorative patterns and designs, has been a revered craft for centuries.

Marquetry if often intricate and delicate and as such can be prone to damage. At Kendals, we take pride in our expertise in repairing various marquetry techniques.

Discover the different types of marquetry -

Traditional Marquetry

Traditional marquetry involves creating intricate designs using various wood veneers. This method has been popular since the Renaissance and is known for its detailed and elaborate patterns. The process requires precision and skill to achieve stunning results.

Boulle Marquetry

Named after the French cabinetmaker André-Charles Boulle, this technique combines wood veneer with other materials such as brass, tortoiseshell, and mother-of-pearl. Boulle marquetry is characterized by its luxurious and opulent designs, often seen in 17th and 18th-century French furniture.

Tarsia Marquetry

Originating in Italy, tarsia marquetry involves creating geometric patterns using different wood veneers. This technique was commonly used in Italian furniture during the Renaissance and is known for its precise and symmetrical designs.

Parquetry

Parquetry is a type of marquetry that focuses on geometric patterns, often used for flooring. However, it can also be applied to furniture, creating eye-catching designs with a modern flair. Parquetry typically uses wood veneers arranged in repeating patterns.

Floral Marquetry

Floral marquetry features intricate designs of flowers and foliage, bringing a natural and organic feel to furniture. This technique requires a keen eye for detail and an artistic touch to create lifelike floral patterns.

Contemporary Marquetry

Modern artists and craftsmen have expanded the boundaries of marquetry, experimenting with new materials and techniques. Contemporary marquetry often combines traditional methods with innovative designs, resulting in unique and artistic pieces.

Marquetry is a timeless art that adds beauty and elegance to furniture. At Kendals, our skilled artisans are well-versed in various marquetry techniques, ensuring that each piece is a true work of art.

Transform Your Home

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 14:25:13 GMT

Expert Furniture Restoration and Reupholstery in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire

Are you looking to rejuvenate your cherished furniture pieces? At Kendals, we specialize in furniture restoration and reupholstery, serving the wonderful communities of Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire. Our passion for quality craftsmanship and dedication to customer satisfaction sets us apart as the local experts in restoring your beloved furniture.

Why Kendals is Your Go-To Choice for Local Furniture Restoration

Expertise You Can Trust

As a locally owned business, we understand the unique needs and preferences of homeowners in towns like St. Albans, Royston, Hemel Hempstead, and Bedford. Our team has extensive experience working with local residents, ensuring that our restoration and reupholstery services resonate with the character of your home. Whether your furniture has a modern flair or a vintage charm, we are here to enhance its beauty and functionality.

Comprehensive Services Tailored to You

At Kendals, we offer a range of services designed to meet all your furniture needs:

Furniture Restoration: We specialize in restoring antiques and beloved family pieces, ensuring their history is preserved while enhancing their aesthetic appeal.
Reupholstery: Choose from an array of high-quality fabrics to transform tired upholstery into a stunning focal point for your room.
Custom Finishing: Our finishing options ensure that your restored pieces blend seamlessly with your existing decor.

The Benefits of Choosing Kendals

When you select Kendals Ltd for your furniture restoration and reupholstery needs, you can expect:

Personalized Service: We take the time to understand your vision and tailor our solutions to meet your specific needs.
Skilled Artisans: Our experienced craftsmen bring a wealth of knowledge and skill, ensuring every piece is restored to perfection.
Transparent Pricing: We provide clear and honest pricing with no hidden fees, so you always know what to expect.

Get Started Today!

The Timeless Craftsmanship of Robert Thompson’s Mouseman Furniture

Fri, 09 Aug 2024 13:16:48 GMT

When it comes to exquisite craftsmanship and timeless design, few names resonate as strongly as Robert Thompson, famously known as the “Mouseman.” His legacy of creating beautiful, handcrafted oak furniture has endured for nearly a century, captivating collectors and enthusiasts alike. At Kendals Restoration, we are proud to offer expert restoration services for these cherished pieces, ensuring they continue to be enjoyed for generations to come.

A Legacy of Excellence

Robert Thompson, a master craftsman from Kilburn, North Yorkshire, began his journey in the early 20th century. His unique signature—a small carved mouse on each piece—quickly became a hallmark of quality and authenticity. This distinctive feature not only adds charm but also signifies the meticulous attention to detail and dedication to craftsmanship that Thompson instilled in his work.

The Beauty of Mouseman Furniture

Mouseman furniture is renowned for its use of naturally seasoned English oak, which provides durability and a rich, warm aesthetic. Each piece, whether it’s a refectory table, a sideboard, or a simple stool, is crafted with precision and care using traditional techniques.

Restoration at Kendals

At Kendals Restoration, we understand the value and significance of Mouseman furniture. Our skilled craftsmen are dedicated to preserving the integrity and beauty of these pieces. With over 30 years of experience in furniture repair and restoration, we employ traditional methods to restore each item to its former glory. Whether it’s repairing a damaged leg, refinishing a surface, or reupholstering a seat, our team handles each project with the utmost care and expertise.

Why Choose Kendals?

Choosing Kendals for your restoration needs means entrusting your treasured furniture to professionals who are passionate about their craft. We offer a range of services, including French polishing, upholstery, and bespoke framing, all tailored to meet the specific needs of your Mouseman furniture. Our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction ensures that your pieces will be restored to their original splendour, ready to be admired and enjoyed once more.

Preserving History

Restoring Mouseman furniture is more than just a job for us—it’s a way to preserve history. Each piece tells a story, and through our meticulous restoration process, we ensure that these stories continue to be told. By choosing Kendals, you are not only investing in the longevity of your furniture but also in the preservation of a rich heritage of craftsmanship.

Restoring Elegance: The Timeless Appeal of Lloyd Loom Furniture

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 09:10:40 GMT

The Legacy of Lloyd Loom

When it comes to classic, elegant furniture, few styles stand the test of time like Lloyd Loom. Its unique blend of sophistication and durability has made it a beloved choice for decades. In this blog, we'll explore the rich history and enduring charm of Lloyd Loom furniture and discuss why it's worth considering for your restoration projects.

Lloyd Loom furniture traces its origins back to the early 20th century when an ingenious American inventor, Marshall B. Lloyd, revolutionized the furniture industry. He developed a special process that wove paper around metal wire, creating a resilient and comfortable material that would become the hallmark of Lloyd Loom furniture.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Lloyd Loom furniture is its timeless design. The clean lines and woven texture of these pieces effortlessly blend into a variety of interior styles, from traditional to contemporary.

Lloyd Loom furniture is not just elegant; it's also built to last. The unique weaving process provides exceptional durability, ensuring that your investment will stand the test of time. Additionally, its sustainable design, using renewable materials like paper and metal wire, appeals to those who prioritize eco-friendly choices in their interior décor.

While the classic design of Lloyd Loom chairs is most well-known, this versatile material has been used to create a wide range of furniture pieces. From sofas and tables to ottomans and storage units, there's a Lloyd Loom piece to suit every room in your home.

If you're lucky enough to have a vintage Lloyd Loom piece in need of restoration, fear not. Whilst it's essential to work with experienced restoration professionals who understand the unique materials and craftsmanship involved a skilled restoration experts can breathe new life into these timeless treasures. Refinishing the frame to bring back its original lustre. With proper care and maintenance, your Lloyd Loom furniture can look stunning for generations to come.

Battling Woodworm Infestation: Effective Furniture Restoration and Treatment

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 15:09:21 GMT

Wooden furniture holds a timeless charm that can grace any living space with elegance and warmth. However, as time passes, even the sturdiest pieces can fall prey to woodworm infestations, posing a threat to their structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. In this blog, we'll delve into the world of furniture woodworm, exploring its causes, signs, and most importantly, effective treatment methods to restore your cherished pieces to their former glory.

Understanding Woodworm Infestation

Woodworm is a collective term used to describe the larvae of wood-boring insects, primarily beetles, that feed on wood fibres. These larvae burrow through the wood, leaving a network of tunnels that can significantly weaken its structure over time. Common culprits include the Common Furniture Beetle (Anobium punctatum), Deathwatch Beetle (Xestobium rufovillosum), and Powderpost Beetle (Lyctus spp.).

Recognizing the Signs

Small Holes : Keep an eye out for tiny holes, usually 1-2mm in diameter, on the surface of your wooden furniture. These are exit holes created by mature wood-boring beetles as they emerge from the wood.

Fine Dust (Frass) : Beneath or around these exit holes, you might find fine powdery dust, which is actually a mix of wood fibres and insect excrement. This frass is a clear indication of an ongoing woodworm infestation.

Weak or Crumbling Wood : If your furniture feels weakened, has visible tunnels, or crumbles easily, it's a strong indication that woodworm larvae have been active within.

Effective Treatment

Assessment by Professionals : If you suspect a woodworm infestation, the first step is to call in professional furniture restorers or pest control experts. They can accurately assess the extent of the damage and recommend an appropriate course of action.

Isolation : Isolate the infested piece from other furniture to prevent the infestation from spreading further.

Chemical Treatment : Treatments involve applying specialized woodworm-killing chemicals to the affected areas.

Wood Replacement : In severe cases, where the infestation has caused irreversible damage, affected parts of the furniture might need to be replaced with new wood.

Preventive Measures : Once the infestation is dealt with, take preventive measures such as maintaining a controlled humidity level, avoiding contact with damp walls, and applying appropriate wood treatments to deter future infestations.

A woodworm infestation might seem like a daunting challenge, but with the right knowledge and professional assistance, your treasured wooden furniture can be restored to its former glory. Early detection, swift action, and adherence to effective treatment methods are the key to ensuring that your furniture remains a symbol of enduring beauty and craftsmanship for generations to come. Don't let these tiny invaders undermine the value of your furniture – take the steps to fight back and preserve its legacy.

The Beauty and Necessity of Conservation Framing: Preserving Art for Future Generations

Tue, 30 May 2023 09:42:07 GMT

Art has the incredible power to captivate, inspire, and touch our souls. Whether it's a delicate watercolour, a striking oil painting, or a cherished photograph, art is a precious medium that deserves our utmost care and attention. One crucial aspect of art preservation is conservation framing, a practice that safeguards artworks from various environmental factors that can cause irreversible damage. In this blog post, we will delve into the reasons why conservation framing is essential for protecting art and ensuring its longevity for future generations to enjoy.

Protection from Environmental Factors:

Artworks are susceptible to damage caused by environmental elements such as light, humidity, temperature fluctuations, and pollutants. Conservation framing utilizes archival-quality materials and techniques to create a protective barrier that shields art from these harmful factors. Ultraviolet (UV) filtering glazing is often employed to block harmful UV rays, which can fade pigments and degrade the integrity of the artwork over time. Additionally, acid-free matting and backing boards prevent discoloration and acid migration, keeping the artwork in pristine condition.

Preventing Physical Damage:

Conservation framing not only guards against environmental factors but also provides physical protection for artworks. The frame acts as a sturdy enclosure, shielding the artwork from accidental impacts, handling, and potential mishaps. It creates a barrier between the artwork and potential dangers, such as moisture, dust, insects, or accidental spills. By securely mounting and framing the artwork, conservation framing ensures its structural stability, reducing the risk of creases, tears, or warping.

Enhancing Aesthetic Presentation:

Beyond its protective qualities, conservation framing also enhances the aesthetic presentation of the artwork. Custom conservation framing allows for careful selection of materials, including acid-free mats and high-quality wood or metal frames, which complement the artwork's style, colours, and mood. A well-chosen frame not only accentuates the artwork's beauty but also adds an element of sophistication and professionalism. Conservation framing allows curators, artists, and collectors to display artworks in a visually appealing manner, elevating their overall impact.

Long-Term Preservation:

Art has the power to transcend time, preserving the cultural and historical narratives of our society. Conservation framing plays a vital role in the long-term preservation of art, ensuring that it can be cherished and studied by future generations. By employing archival materials and techniques, conservation framing slows down the natural aging process of artworks, prolonging their lifespan. Through conservation framing, we protect the integrity of art, allowing it to retain its beauty and value for years to come.

Retaining Artistic Intent:

Artists pour their creativity, vision, and emotions into their artworks, each stroke or composition embodying their artistic intent. Conservation framing respects and preserves this intent by maintaining the artwork's original appearance. The use of archival materials ensures that the artwork remains unaltered over time, avoiding any negative impact on colour, texture, or overall composition. By employing conservation framing, we honour the artist's intention and enable viewers to experience the artwork as it was originally envisioned.

Conservation framing is an indispensable practice for art preservation, safeguarding precious artworks for future generations to admire and cherish. By protecting art from environmental factors, preventing physical damage, enhancing aesthetic presentation, ensuring long-term preservation, and retaining artistic intent, conservation framing becomes a vital tool in the hands of artists, collectors, and art enthusiasts. Let us embrace the beauty and necessity of conservation framing, preserving the cultural heritage and artistic achievements that enrich our world.

BBC's 'The Repair Shop'

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 12:48:14 GMT

Influencing Trends in Furniture Restoration

Over the past few years, the BBC's television series ' The Repair Shop ' has gained a huge following among viewers who are fascinated by the art of furniture restoration. The show features a team of skilled artisans who take their time to carefully examine each item and develop a restoration plan that will preserve its history and character. Like us they use traditional techniques and materials wherever possible, and the results are often breath-taking. As a result, the show has had a significant influence on trends in furniture restoration, inspiring a renewed interest in traditional techniques and craftsmanship.

'The Repair Shop' has helped to popularize the use of traditional restoration techniques. Rather than relying on modern methods and materials, the artisans on the show often use time-honoured methods such as hand-carving, gilding, and marquetry to restore antique and vintage pieces to their original condition. This has led to a renewed appreciation for the artistry and skill required to produce these pieces.

'The Repair Shop' has helped to promote is the idea of upcycling and repurposing. Many of the objects featured on the show are not only restored to their former glory but are also given a new lease on life by being repurposed into something entirely different. For example, an old wooden chest might be transformed into a stylish coffee table, or a set of vintage chairs might be reupholstered and given a new lease on life. This has helped to promote a more sustainable approach to furniture restoration, encouraging people to see the potential in old and discarded objects rather than simply throwing them away. We'd be delighted to help with your next project, simply fill in the contact form to get started.

Many of the people who bring their items to be restored have a deep emotional connection to them. The items often have sentimental value and seeing them restored to their former glory can be an emotional experience. As with the team at The Repair Shop we are always respectful of this emotional connection and takes great care to honour it.

'The Repair Shop' is an exceptional television program that is both entertaining and educational. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of skilled restoration and provides a heart-warming reminder of the value of cherished objects and the memories they hold. If you haven't seen it yet, I highly recommend checking it out!

Benefits to having your furniture reupholstered

Fri, 13 Mar 2020 10:24:13 GMT

The new season is a great reason to make and keep resolutions. Whether it’s eating well or cleaning out the garage, here are some tips for making and keeping resolutions.

Reupholstering also has environmental benefits. It keeps old furniture out of landfills and reduces the need for new resources to be used in the production of new furniture.

In addition to updating the appearance of your furniture, reupholstering can also improve the comfort and durability of your pieces. A professional reupholsterer can make sure that the new fabric and padding are properly applied, ensuring that your furniture will last for years to come.

Reupholstering can be a bit pricey, but it's definitely worth the investment. The cost of reupholstering will depend on the size of the piece and the type of fabric you choose. But it can be a much more affordable option than buying a new piece of furniture, and it will give your home a fresh, new look.

Furniture reupholstering is a cost-effective, environment-friendly and a perfect way to refresh your home decor. It’s a great way to keep your old furniture and make it look new again. It is an investment worth making and you can enjoy your newly upholstered furniture for many years to come.

Preservation for the Next Generation with Antique Restoration

Thu, 13 Jun 2019 09:24:13 GMT

Whether you are a collector, a homeowner with a piece of antique furniture passed down through the generations, or simply someone who has come across a unique and interesting piece second hand, restoring an antique piece can breathe new life into it and give it a new place in your home or collection.

Before we begin any restoration project, it is important to consider the condition of the piece and the extent of the work that needs to be done. Some pieces may only need a light cleaning and a coat of wax, while others may require extensive repairs or even complete rebuilding. We can assess the piece and provide an estimate for the work that needs to be done.

A thorough cleaning is often the first step in bringing furniture back to life. Dirt, grime, and years of neglect can take a toll on a piece. For most pieces, a gentle cleaning with a mild soap and warm water will do the trick. However, some pieces may require more specialised cleaning methods, such as using a mild acid solution to remove tarnish from metal hardware.

An important aspect of antique furniture restoration is repair. Some pieces may need only minor repairs, such as replacing a missing knob or patching a small hole in a piece of veneer. Others may require more extensive repairs, such as rebuilding a broken leg or replacing a missing piece of a piece's structure. It is vital to consult a professional who has experience with antique furniture restoration.

Finally, we must consider the finish of the piece. Many antique pieces have a beautiful patina that develops over time, and it is important to preserve that patina if possible. For pieces that are in good condition, a light coat of wax may be all that is needed to bring out the beauty of the wood. For pieces that are in need of more extensive restoration, it may be necessary to strip the finish and apply a new finish.

Antique furniture restoration can help preserve the beauty and craftsmanship of older pieces. Whether you are a collector, a homeowner, or simply someone who has come across a unique piece, restoring an antique piece can breathe new life into it and give it a new place in your home or collection. Always consult a professional conservator or restorer, we can assess the piece and provide an estimate for the work that needs to be done. With the right care and attention, you can enjoy your antique piece for years to come.

Using Framed Artwork in Home Decor

Tue, 07 May 2019 12:08:06 GMT

Using framed artwork in home decor is a great way to add personality and style to any room.

Framed art can be used to create a focal point in a room, or to complement existing decor.

When choosing artwork for your home, consider the overall style and theme of the room, as well as the colours and patterns that are already present.

Hanging a large piece of art as a focal point on a main wall, such as above a fireplace or sofa. Can add colour and interest to a room, and can also be used to define a specific area or function within a room.

Matching or complimentary mouldings on artwork or photos and grouping several smaller pieces of art together is a great way to create a gallery wall. Creating visual interest and depth to a room, and can also be used to showcase a collection of art or to create a theme within a room.

Simply changing the frame or mount board on art to complement existing decor can tie a room together and create a cohesive look, such as by hanging a piece that complements the colours of a room or that features a style that is similar to the styles of furniture or accessories.

Overall, using framed artwork in home decor is a great way to add personality, style and interest to any room. With a little creativity and careful consideration of the existing decor, you can create a beautiful and unique look in your home.

Visit our showroom based near Baldock, North Hertfordshire for expert advise and an extensive selection of mouldings and mounts.