Our master furniture maker, Mike Screen, crafted this mobile, low table around twenty-five years ago for his own home. Recently, it returned to us for a well-deserved re-finish before moving to his daughter’s flat. Along the way, we added new hand-turned cherry drawer pulls to replace missing or damaged brass originals. This update gives the table a refreshed look while maintaining its original charm.

Restoration process

We began by carefully removing the old finish inside and out. Each surface was inspected and assessed. Next, we prepared the timber for re-colouring and applied several coats of nitrocellulose lacquer. This ensured an even and durable seal. Afterward, we wet-sanded and buffed the surfaces to a high gloss finish, giving the table a smooth, polished appearance.

The table top required special attention. We skimmed 2mm off the surface to level it and remove deep dents. Working with Douglas Fir can be challenging, especially after years of experience with richer timbers like oak, elm, sapele, and cherry. However, through careful preparation and dyeing, we enhanced the timber’s subtle character and natural warmth. This allows it to shine while retaining its understated elegance.

Finishing Touches

Once the table was fully prepared, we applied a protective finish. We meticulously checked each surface for consistency. Every corner, edge, and drawer pull meets our high standards for craftsmanship. As a result, the table is not only visually appealing but also ready for practical use in a modern home.

This table now combines functional elegance with a sense of nostalgia. It evokes the feeling of meeting an old friend, giving them a spruce up, and sending them off to create new memories. Furthermore, it offers a perfect blend of practicality, history, and timeless design. It makes an ideal addition to any living space.

Be sure to explore our work on our Facebook and Instagram pages, and don’t forget to follow us for updates, new projects, and more examples of our craftsmanship and restorations.