Reviving Vintage MCM Furniture: The Art of Choosing the Right Finish

Reviving Vintage MCM Furniture: The Art of Choosing the Right Finish

In the world of Mid Century Modern (MCM) furniture, the right finish can make all the difference. These timeless pieces, crafted with meticulous attention to detail, deserve to be treated with the utmost care. Whether you're the proud owner of a vintage Danish teak sideboard or a classic American walnut armchair, understanding the nuances of furniture finishes is crucial to preserving their beauty and longevity.

At Mid Century Modern Toronto, we professionally refinish MCM furniture. But before you embark on your MCM furniture journey, let's dive into the world of finishes and explore what you need to know.

Types of Finishes for MCM Furniture

When it comes to MCM furniture, there are two primary types of finishes to consider: oil-based and lacquer.

Oil-based Finishes: These classic finishes, such as Danish oil, tung oil or linseed oil, provide a warm, natural look that enhances the grain of the wood. They are reasonably durable, easy to maintain, and can be easily repaired if needed by applying more oil.

Lacquer Finishes: Favored for their glossy, medium or high-sheen finish, lacquer coatings offer better protection than the oil finishes, however, not everyone likes that "plasticky" feeling they give to the wooden furniture. In addition, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are common ingredients in many lacquers. Most health hazards stemming from VOCs are the result of inhaling the lacquer fumes. These fumes can cause difficulty breathing, kidney failure, nervous system damage and loss of vision. These lacquers generally remain toxic for up to a month after drying.

Lacquer finishes are commonly used in furniture manufacturing due to their quick-drying properties and fast application by spraying.

Oil finishes are applied by hand and take much longer time to dry than lacquer, so most often oil finishes are used by high end furniture makers since the cost is significantly higher.

It is worth mentioning that polyurethane finish is not suitable for this fine furniture; it just does not look good, and you can not repair it; instead, you would always need to strip the old finish. In addition, stain should not be used on teak, walnut and rosewood furniture.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Finish

When selecting the right finish for your MCM furniture, there are several factors to consider:

  1. Original Finish: If you're working with a vintage piece, it's important to understand the original finish to ensure compatibility and a seamless restoration. Danish furniture makers used conversion varnish (similar to lacquer) and Danish oil finishes. Most American makers, however, used colored lacquer on their furniture, although, some high end makers used oil finishes.
  2. Wood Type: Different wood species, such as teak, walnut, or rosewood, may respond better to certain finishes. Consulting with a professional can help you make the best choice.
  3. Intended Use and Location: The finish you choose should be able to withstand the demands of your living space. For example, a piece destined for a high-traffic area may require a more durable finish. It is worth to mention that only epoxy will offer complete protection from water penetration.

Application Techniques

Proper application is key to achieving a flawless finish. This includes thorough stripping of old finishes, repairing all damages and the use of high-quality application tools, and adherence to drying and curing times. Rushing this process can lead to uneven coverage, bubbling, or other unsightly issues.

Maintenance and Care

Once your MCM furniture is refinished, proper maintenance is essential to preserving its beauty. Please check our blog for all you need to know about the maintenance of oil finishes.

At Mid Century Modern Toronto, we understand the importance of preserving the integrity of these iconic designs. Discover the hidden gem of Toronto's MCM furniture and let us help you revive the timeless elegance of your vintage Mid Century Modern pieces.

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