Color Matching Basics
by Alan Noel
Professional Wood Finisher
Without a doubt, matching a new veneer patch in an old table top
to the surrounding area or replacing a missing element with a new
piece of wood has to be one of the most frustrating areas of furniture
restoration work. This is also true even when the repair is made with
the same species and the grain patterns are very close. Here is what
I do to get started.
1. Use old reclaimed material if possible. The older material will already
possess some "patina", the natural darkening of the wood.
2. Match up the grain patterns as closely as possible.
3. Remember to take into account the existing color of the wood when
adding another color. These two colors make a third and that is what you are
going for.
4. Layering on the colors will allow for a gradual match.
5. Use scraps to practice on and be patient!
Visiting Atlanta? Attend one of Alan's upcoming highly informative Highland Woodworking wood
finishing seminars:
Finishing the Finish
, July 7, 2010
French Polish Workshop
, July 14, 2010
Antique Restoration
, July 24-25, 2010
Visit Highland Woodworking's Online
Wood Finishing Supplies Department
Alan can be reached directly via email c/o Alan Noel Furniture Refinishing at
anoelfurniturere@bellsouth.net
.
