Decorative Arts/Expert Profile


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Expertise

If you are decorating your home on a budget I can answer most questions about what to look for when buying "good old stuff" at garage sales, yard sales or auctions. I can answer most questions about the refinishing, and repairing of wood items. I have had lots of experience in this area and made lots of mistakes over the years which I may help you avoid.

Experience in the area

I have been haunting auction sales,flea markets etc. for 30 yrs. I have worked extensively at refinishing, and repairing all the old stuff I bring home. I also work for other people, and do repairs and refinishing for several antique stores.

What do you like about this subject?

I enjoy the thrill of seeing layers of old paint come off a piece of furniture to reveal wonderful old oak or walnut underneath. The thrill of restoring something that would otherwise end up in the garbage has never left me after many years of this pursuit. I dont think it ever will.

What do you still hope to achieve/learn in this field?

I have accumulated over the years many old "odd" bits and pieces of beautiful antique wood. I would like to learn more wood working skills to be able to make something really unique from them

Something interesting about this subject that others may not know:

I was once told by an old 'Master refinisher" that the time one spends restoring old things is not counted against your alotted time on this earth.

Something controversial or provocative about this subject

I have always heard that a piano should never be stripped and refinished. I think this is hogwash. I have done several over the years (at the insistance of the owner) and each and every time they have been delighted with the results. Now we are not talking pianos that cost thousands here but the usual piano you would see in the average home.

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Recent Reviews from Users

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    K = Knowledgeability    C = Clarity of Response    T = Timeliness    P = Politeness
UserDateKCTPComments
Patti10/13/0910101010Eileen, Thanks for your help. I was .....
Mike09/16/0910101010Eileen, Thanks very much for the advice .....
Patti09/15/0910101010Thank you for your help. I hope .....
Lawrence09/03/0910101010 
Diana08/19/0910101010Hi Eileen... When I have my carpenter .....

Recent Answers from Eileen Cronk

2009-11-10 Refinishing lamps:

Hi Beth Nice to hear from you. Theres really not much we can do to a high gloss ceramic but make sure its grease free before starting your project. The key with this project (which is a great idea

2009-11-04 repainting a plaster mirror:

Hi Kim Nice to hear from you. It depends what kind of look you want but there are actually no steps if you just paint. Just dust and spray paint. If you want to antique the frame, apply a coat of antique

2009-11-02 Gold picture frames:

Hi Lauren Nice to hear from you. No need to take the frames anywhere. You can do this simple project yourself. Dust the frame. Get a can of silver spray paint at the hardware. Remove any glass or

2009-10-14 need a table top:

Hi Natalie Nice to hear from you. If you where my neighbour, you could walk over and I would make you your table top from reclaimed wood..its that easy. One of the easiest things to make actually. So

2009-09-15 Cleaning ornate picture frame:

Hi Mike Nice to hear from you. Do not even think about dipping your old frame LOL. What you did on the frame so far is fine. Now you must get into the nooks and crannies with a Q-tip dipped in your

 

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