A client said my hand-rubbed finish was 'too perfect' for her antique dresser

I was finishing a 1920s oak dresser for a client last week, using my usual 3-coat shellac and wax method. She came to check the work and said, 'It looks amazing, but it feels like a new piece now. The little dings and color shifts are part of its story.' I've always aimed for a flawless, even finish. Now I'm wondering if we sometimes over-restore things and lose the character. For pieces with a clear history, do you think a perfect finish is the right goal, or should we leave more of the wear?

2 comments

2 Comments

angela_kelly16d ago

It's a common issue. I ask clients upfront how much character they want to keep before I even start sanding.

kaiharris16d ago

Maybe we should ask clients to show us their favorite old thing first.