Antique Drawer Restoration – Breathing Life into Oak

Article 84: Antique Drawer Restoration – Breathing Life into Oak

By: A Woodworker Who Rescues Forgotten Furniture

Restoring an old drawer from a broken cabinet can turn a dusty relic into a standout accent. This guide focuses on oak drawers with dovetail joints.

Materials

• Original drawer (or parts)

• Hide glue or wood glue

• Oak patching stock

• Drawer runners (optional)

• Finish: shellac, oil, or wax

Tools Needed

• Chisels

• Clamps

• Hand plane

• Sandpaper

• Small hammer and block

Steps

1. Assess Damage

   • Look for split joints, missing bottoms, and loose dovetails.

2. Clean Gently

   • Remove dust with a dry brush. Avoid water. Lightly sand only if necessary.

3. Repair Dovetails

   • Reglue loose joints using hide glue for reversibility. Clamp tightly.

4. Patch or Replace Bottom

   • Use 1/4" oak ply if bottom is missing. Cut rabbets in drawer sides if needed.

5. Plane to Fit

   • Plane sides to ensure the drawer slides smoothly if it sticks.

6. Finish

   • Use shellac or wax to protect wood and bring back depth of color.

Sketch – Drawer Joint Repair

  [Side] --|==|==|==|-- [Front]
          ← Dovetails (reglued)