The Furniture Bible

An excellent resource for anyone interested in restoring or refinishing old furniture. The book begins with a history of period furniture, and goes on to outline how furniture is made, the types of woods, joinery, hardware and upholstery commonly used, and much more.

Using a series of 14 refinishing projects, the author provides guidance on finishing techniques including French polish (a glassy shellac finish), ceruse (a wax process that gives a slightly weathered look), ebonizing and gilding. Each step in the restoration process is explained, from dismantling and stripping furniture to repairing holes and cracks.

Includes hundreds of color photographs, a summary of required tools, recipes for wax, shellac, glaze and fillers, plus a section on furniture care and maintenance.

Hardcover, 7 3/4" × 9 3/4", 304 pages, 2014.