I just spent over an hour looking at your chest, and I enjoyed every minute of it! :) Great job on this - it was a lot of work!! Your skill is top shelf. Also, glad to see you're doing better with wearing your mask, etc. When you have a good set of lungs, you want to keep them that way.....
I am in awe of not only your technical skills, but also your artistry. The way you take your time with fine detailing is truly admirable. Great job, Trena!
When you pick up the mini-pry bar my heart always sinks but then project always turns out beautifully. 😬 Great knowledge, talent , patience, and results! Love your work.
That, Trena, is an absolute masterwork! We're sitting here just shaking our heads in disbelief at the transformation. Amazing. World class conservation and restoration. As ever, we are grateful for the Flitz love and tickled pink to be a very small part of your process! Wow. Just wow! All the best! 👍👍👀
You are absolutely amazing. I am learning so much from you. Even at 74 years old you're not to old to learn. I have refinished alot of furniture over the years but would never have tackled some of the pieces you have done.Thank you
I agree with some of the other comments. You are not just a furniture repair woman, you are truly an artist. Your work is always perfection and beautiful. I love watching your channel
Trena you are excellent with all aspects of furniture restoration. I have been watching you for some time. I especially enjoy your work with color. Your work on the ornately carved chest was quite interesting; so many decisions!!!
Hi Trena... another comment from me, this one has me thinking about it even more! I don't know how rare this piece is, and I don't know all of the types of furniture that passes through your shop (but as I watch your videos I'm sort of getting an idea)... but I have to think this could be a rare, once-in-a-career, opportunity to repair such an ornate chest like this, and what an honor it was that the client trusted you to repair it. The second thing that strikes me is that we got to see this... I wonder how many shops repairs such stunning pieces and we'll never see them! Thanks again for posting this video!
I doubt this kind of piece is that rare. To me it looks relatively modern and made with modern equipment to replicate the motif on each panel. I suspect that beside the climate differences, the wood itself was very new, and would have benefited from some drying before cutting and carving. I'm familiar with genuine old pieces I've seen in acquaintances' homes (compared with this one) - where the chest is made from camphor wood or in another example, the furniture items were made from an Asian wood that is dark chocolate brown with a touch of red hue, and does not need any colouring before finishing. Also none of these pieces had any screws, all were assembled using tenons and glued in the traditional manner -such stuff came out in the 1920s and 1930s I believe and survived transfer to a drier climate much better than the example in the video.
This is not rare at all. It is really nice, especially the plum blossoms along the border, but not THAT great. I would call it competent. It is not inexpensive, I will say that. The style is called "Chinoiserie" and was most likely made in Belle Epoque France. This is the same era that James McNeill Whistler made his infamous Peacock Room for Frederick Leyland's London mansion. Meiji era Japan had just opened its ports to foreign trade and England controlled a good chunk of China and India. Europe was seeing all kinds of new things for the first time and eating it up. Pieces like this were churned out like Ikea furniture is nowadays. Even respectable companies like Wedgwood and Gorham tried their hand at it. This faux generic "oriental" style was very much haute couture and that original inky black finish was called "Japanning" and was made to replicate a slightly worn urushi (yes, like poison sumac, it is hella toxic) lacquer finish. It may have well just been India ink mixed with shellac. But they put it on everything but celluloid and Bakelite in those days. Ironically most of the marketing gimmick when it was new was in that murky black finish but, now that it has been redone and the dated kitsch removed, it is a more respectable and artistic piece.
@@dangergirldesigns5943 Oh Wow!!! You have a super impressive knowledge of styles and history... I had no idea about any of this information. I'm more of an admirer of the pieces restored on this channel and want to learn furniture building/restoring techniques of our curiosity, but what you explained to me in your comment is at such a high level of detail, so may I ask a personal question? What brought you to this interest to learn all of this?
I was picking up a couple of things at Canadian Tire when my wife called me to say you had posted a new video lol. You truly are a grandmaster of your craft. We especially love it when your videos are an hour+ long, we make ourselves a tea, sit back and enjoy (better than movie night lol). Btw, your channel is one of the VERY FEW TH-cam channels my wife and I watch on the tv, most others aren't worthy of that. P.S. I hope French's is watching 😉
I love watching her as well, but dread the end of the video because I know I’ve already seen them all! It’s a real treat when I’m checking out the offerings on YT and see a new video, it just makes my day. I really have two favorites on YT, this and then Kinwoven who is an interior designer extraordinaire. She’s simply the best designer on YT. 🤗
Wow!..incredible work! The results are amazing! Kudos to the customer who was willing to pay for the rejuvenation and shipment of this lovely box, he/she prolonged an amazing craftmanship for another 5or more decades!
LMAO the title is priceless Trena. LOVE the dog participation. LoL OMG Trena YOU ROCKED IT! WOW LOVE IT. The customer should see this video to see the extent of your hard work. The color is outstanding. Would love the videos of Customers reactions.
OMG! This piece is stunning. I am in awe of the work you did in order to get it back to it's original state. I would love to see the expression of the person picking it up. I'm sure they are in shock at the beautiful job you did.
I loved this, just beautiful work, a pleasure to watch. I saw the first name inside the lid and caught my breath, that's me. I always loved these carved oriental chests. My husband's family were in China in the 1930s and had some lovely pieces. None of the large items were handed down since they were in England and we were in Canada, but we have some special small carved figurines and such. It's so interesting to see craftsmanship like this, both the original carver and your renovation. Thank you Trena, a very enjoyable hour. 💞
So pleased that your customer chose not to hide the beauty of the chest in "paint", a great finish. The fact that there is some minor warping of the lid keeps some of its history and isn't too severe. Thank you for sharing your work.
Trena what a beautiful and artistic job you did! This chest is absolutely superb. I'm sure your client is thrilled to pieces! This will last for many more years now! Thank you for sharing with us!
I love the colors you chose for the wood but I wish you would've rehighlighted the carvings. They seem to blend in more than stand out which was there intended purpose. The work you do is amazing!
Oh my gosh! The attention to detail, the artistry, and your craftmanship is gobsmacking! Well done Trena.. you've lovingly restored this beautiful piece. We can clearly see how much you love the wood and bringing old things back to life. I am so glad to have found your page!
Trena, you have given this trunk a major upgrade. I was in the military and bought one of these trunks while I was assigned in Japan. Those things were pretty much tourist trinkets and I believe that they were cranked out as such. Every one of those trunks that I have seen always end up falling apart and it has always made me wonder if the wood and the joinery were perhaps not quite what it should have been. The fact that you have make this chest look brand new, perhaps even better than it ever looked when it was new, is a testament to your skills. Love your channel.
Hi, you are amazing. Your Father trained you well & you are honoring his legacy by showing everyone what he has taught you. Thank you for taking me along.
I ditto everyone's generous comments. Beautiful, artistic, a great eye for the color, very talented at carving, incredible joinery and knowing what to do and having the patience to do it. WOW! You knock it out of the park and I love seeing the transformation come to life. It's actually emotionally moving to see how much love you gave this piece. Thank you so much for all you do, it's so fun to see.
Amazing work. You clearly have the love and understanding of the materials you are working with, and the skills and patience to execute the various aspect of the projects beautifully. ❤️
I love your patience with the process on this one, very necessary on a job like this. I remember back in the 80s-90s when a whole lot of similar furniture was coming to North America from southeast Asia and after being in people's homes with central heat, the wood was cracking, warping, and joints coming apart. it was ugly but there wasn't a lot to be done. I love your humor too, a very essential element. My wife would always ask where I was going and I would say, "I gotta go look at Mrs. Magillicuddy's chest" she would answer, "You gonna go through her drawers too?"
I am in awe, both of the original craftsman's skill, and your skill and passion for bringing this wonderful old piece back to life! Also, since we're not allowed to look elsewhere, I for one appreciate the fact that you included gratuitous shop dog footage for us to enjoy.
My grandma got one of this in Hongkong. That is why I spent the time to see how to restore it. After the work done, if you could show the reaction of your customers when they meet their belonging again, that would be what viewers want to see also. Good job! 😊👍
Outrageously beautiful! The work you do is like a 200 year old bottle of the finest Scotch! Each part meant to be savored and appreciated. That chest is glorious!! This is the work you were meant for. Your dad is clapping his hands at how much you’ve learned and expanded your knowledge beyond what he’s taught you. You should be on retainer for museums because your skills are way above the majority of woodworkers. And I adore your pup and kitty being part of the shop as well. I’m sure when things are tough, they release a lot of stress for you. My own kitty is draped and taking a nap. He’s being a living heating pad. Lol. On a serious note…as a retired critical care/ ER nurse I’m glad to see you using safety gear, especially your respirator, when working. All that fume exposure can create, over time, some very serious lung problems that can only be fixed by some extensive lung surgery. And I hope you are teaching someone else all your knowledge so the skills can continue. Hope one day to see your work in person.
Your love for what you do Trena definitely shows up! in your work! Know wonder your pieces look so artistic! You truly are gifted in what you do. Your father surely taught his little girl well.
I love the way that your cabinet turned the carvings turned out wonderful I love your passion for the work you do please keep it up I'm looking forward to more
OMG you added so much value to that chest. What a beautiful job. Actually, when you were carving the flower at the miter all I could think was you must charge a fortune for your work. You clearly can for your artistry. Thank you for sharing your work. It's a real pleasure to observe. Blessings.
Amazing job...you should be nothing but proud! That said, like every good (great) craftsperson l know...you point out everything that is less than perfect at the end. I'm sure that's a necessary trait to be able to achieve the results you get. Once again, great work!
This must be one of your best restorations. The beauty of the piece comes to life. You are a true artist. Congratulations. You teach us many things, but I am most surprised by the patience you have taught me. I love all your work.
WOW - the finished chest looks brilliant. The wood finish is fantastic - thousand times better than the flat, murky black/brown finish. Well done you.👏👏👏👌
So impressive! Not only did you deal masterfully with the horrendous warping and other issues, but your refinishing undoubtedly left it looking better than it did when it was brand new.
This chest, oh my, I have one. My Father bought it from a Merchant Seaman in the early 70'. The man said he got it from a village, that made them. I still admire an realize, it took a village of talented people to make my chest from Dad. Bless you for this hard work you are doing.
Your craftsmanship is methodical and well thought out. This piece turned out wonderful! And you seem to do it with ease. I actually find it quite relaxing to watch your process.
Omg! I love the mischievous title: I enjoy the incredible craftsmanship…and I tune in to watch traynor (?) because she’s gorgeous! I also love the fact that nobody else will admit this…
Inspiring approach to problem solving - and you can really get 'er done. There were dozens of repairs hiding in there, and each one was assessed, executed, and integrated with the whole. Mesmerizing to watch - I'm usually more stressed out on comparatively simple projects that only have a couple of problems to solve. So I come to this channel to see what's possible!
Your work on this project borders on the magical! Wow! Another silk purse out of a - - -well let's just say that it is now a silk purse. The craftsmen in China who made this chest would be proud of what you have done. Thank you for sharing!.
Unfortunately with pieces this old it usually just springs back. Hard to teach an very old dog new tricks. But definitely with newer lumber it would. Cheers
I was wondering if you could have cut it into strips with a bandsaw and glue those up straight, like a lamination or a plywood. You would of course have had to add a bit to make up for the saw kerfs. A lot of extra work though
I had to stop watching yesterday. My six year old boy had an upset tummy (too many sweet's). He is OK today, and gone to school. What a wonderful transformation. I did not know the lock was engraved until you polished it, and the leaf pattern popped out. Beautiful, job well done.
on that top, It seemed as though all the frame pieces were relatively straight except for that front one that was crowned and twisted. Framers deal with that by cutting kerf cuts in the piece of lumber enabling the thing to be straightened. They straighten the piece by making that kerf cut and driving a long screw in at an angle to pull the lumber into position, couldn't you have done something like that? Perhaps making some kerf cuts in the back where it would be on the inside enabling you to take the crown out that way and then making some kerf cuts on the bottom up to the carving enabling to straighten it out in that plane. then holding the piece straight with clamps and perhaps against something strong like a metal straight tube fill the kerf cuts with wood filler.
if it were a worse situation i would have had to do something more. but i was able to get it to an acceptable level without brutal repairs. thanks for the suggestions though. cheers
Keep up the good work. I’ve have 50+ years of experience in furniture design and woodworking; and no small amount of repairs, too. I also started making and repairing guitars and basses as well. You might want to try using carbon fiber rods in such cases as this. I’ve used carbon fiber rods successfully while both building and repairing guitar necks. There are a number direct to public vendors on line.
Have you run into any issues leaving the inside raw like that? I've heard from others that doing so would be a recipe for uneven take up of moisture and would promote warping. I wonder if that is why it warped so much to begin with. Sometimes conventional wisdom is wrong so good to hear from experience. Thanks for sharing!
definitely left open the trunk would start to take on moisture, but because they are usually closed the humidity stays relatively stable unless stored in extreme temperature and weather conditions. the eucalyptus also smells so wonderful it would be a shame to seal. cheers
I have learned that the best way to prevent warping due to quick changes in moisture contents is to fill drawers, or in this case a chest, with textiles. They will act as a moisture buffer, slow down the changes and thus prevent warping.
But....but.....you made me look....lol......and I only came for the thrill of your skills, your clamp revamps, the anticipation of your restoration and your restraint.....with matches. Honestly, I intently watched everything you did and I still don't believe the stunning results you managed to get. Amazing!
OMG, Trena! You truly are an artist! This chest looks brand new, youd have to look very, very close to see repairs! You went over and beyond a repair/restore job! Thank you!❤
Oh Trena, you got my laughing out loud, again, alone in my house. The dog. Hilarious! If there is a hall of fame for furniture repair and refinishing you would take the #1 spot! Beautiful as always.
Okay, the trunk. Now this was a possible mission impossible but Trena showed that it wasn't. The three-d look of the top and elsewhere was beautifully done.
A very clever title for this video. A woodworker with a keen sense of humour, priceless!
A genuine pleasure to watch a master craftsman at work! I’m certain that your father is beaming with pride.
Its impossible to stop looking at your chest when it's that beautiful. Amazing job, that thing was lucky to meet you!
"A doozy of a project." Indeed! An extraordinary outcome. Thanks for the video.
Thanks for watching!
I just spent over an hour looking at your chest, and I enjoyed every minute of it! :) Great job on this - it was a lot of work!! Your skill is top shelf. Also, glad to see you're doing better with wearing your mask, etc. When you have a good set of lungs, you want to keep them that way.....
Those are good tips.
She did a repair?
Joking. Great job like always.
Yes breathing is always good to look after.
Have you tried to steam the wood work it back in shape. Might help really love your work.
Better for the brain too
I am in awe of not only your technical skills, but also your artistry. The way you take your time with fine detailing is truly admirable. Great job, Trena!
When you pick up the mini-pry bar my heart always sinks but then project always turns out beautifully. 😬 Great knowledge, talent , patience, and results! Love your work.
I keep thinking she is going to put a dent in the wood when she uses the pry bar
I know what you mean, I always put a wide blade putty knife underneath of the pry bar and then start to gently apply pressure.
I was the same, but then I realized that the bar is harmless, it's the application by the human that is the decider.
That, Trena, is an absolute masterwork! We're sitting here just shaking our heads in disbelief at the transformation. Amazing. World class conservation and restoration. As ever, we are grateful for the Flitz love and tickled pink to be a very small part of your process! Wow. Just wow! All the best! 👍👍👀
You are absolutely amazing. I am learning so much from you. Even at 74 years old you're not to old to learn. I have refinished alot of furniture over the years but would never have tackled some of the pieces you have done.Thank you
That was a masterclass in furniture restoration and what a result. A joy to watch you make it happen.
I agree with some of the other comments. You are not just a furniture repair woman, you are truly an artist. Your work is always perfection and beautiful. I love watching your channel
Trena, the transformation was absolutely amazing! You are truly a master of your craft, totally enjoy all your videos, keep them coming!
Thank you so much! Will do
Trena you are excellent with all aspects of furniture restoration. I have been watching you for some time. I especially enjoy your work with color. Your work on the ornately carved chest was quite interesting; so many decisions!!!
Thankyou
Hi Trena... another comment from me, this one has me thinking about it even more! I don't know how rare this piece is, and I don't know all of the types of furniture that passes through your shop (but as I watch your videos I'm sort of getting an idea)... but I have to think this could be a rare, once-in-a-career, opportunity to repair such an ornate chest like this, and what an honor it was that the client trusted you to repair it. The second thing that strikes me is that we got to see this... I wonder how many shops repairs such stunning pieces and we'll never see them! Thanks again for posting this video!
I doubt this kind of piece is that rare. To me it looks relatively modern and made with modern equipment to replicate the motif on each panel. I suspect that beside the climate differences, the wood itself was very new, and would have benefited from some drying before cutting and carving. I'm familiar with genuine old pieces I've seen in acquaintances' homes (compared with this one) - where the chest is made from camphor wood or in another example, the furniture items were made from an Asian wood that is dark chocolate brown with a touch of red hue, and does not need any colouring before finishing. Also none of these pieces had any screws, all were assembled using tenons and glued in the traditional manner -such stuff came out in the 1920s and 1930s I believe and survived transfer to a drier climate much better than the example in the video.
@@thelongdrag9188 maybe, I don't think it was the a knock off. Maybe a beginner's shoppe. Sawydee.
Ray Mitchell there are 2 channels that I know of that restore pieces. Pieces from the 1800's they do amazing work
This is not rare at all. It is really nice, especially the plum blossoms along the border, but not THAT great. I would call it competent. It is not inexpensive, I will say that. The style is called "Chinoiserie" and was most likely made in Belle Epoque France. This is the same era that James McNeill Whistler made his infamous Peacock Room for Frederick Leyland's London mansion. Meiji era Japan had just opened its ports to foreign trade and England controlled a good chunk of China and India. Europe was seeing all kinds of new things for the first time and eating it up. Pieces like this were churned out like Ikea furniture is nowadays. Even respectable companies like Wedgwood and Gorham tried their hand at it. This faux generic "oriental" style was very much haute couture and that original inky black finish was called "Japanning" and was made to replicate a slightly worn urushi (yes, like poison sumac, it is hella toxic) lacquer finish. It may have well just been India ink mixed with shellac. But they put it on everything but celluloid and Bakelite in those days. Ironically most of the marketing gimmick when it was new was in that murky black finish but, now that it has been redone and the dated kitsch removed, it is a more respectable and artistic piece.
@@dangergirldesigns5943 Oh Wow!!! You have a super impressive knowledge of styles and history... I had no idea about any of this information. I'm more of an admirer of the pieces restored on this channel and want to learn furniture building/restoring techniques of our curiosity, but what you explained to me in your comment is at such a high level of detail, so may I ask a personal question? What brought you to this interest to learn all of this?
Beautiful restoration!
I was picking up a couple of things at Canadian Tire when my wife called me to say you had posted a new video lol. You truly are a grandmaster of your craft. We especially love it when your videos are an hour+ long, we make ourselves a tea, sit back and enjoy (better than movie night lol). Btw, your channel is one of the VERY FEW TH-cam channels my wife and I watch on the tv, most others aren't worthy of that.
P.S. I hope French's is watching 😉
Thankyou!
I love watching her as well, but dread the end of the video because I know I’ve already seen them all! It’s a real treat when I’m checking out the offerings on YT and see a new video, it just makes my day. I really have two favorites on YT, this and then Kinwoven who is an interior designer extraordinaire. She’s simply the best designer on YT. 🤗
@@lolaottinger6976 this is the first video I've seen from this channel, y'all are making me so excited :D
@Lola Ottinger this is my first video of hers as well
What a job you did on that chest. Watched every minute even though I am not really into the music. You know what you are doing for sure!!!!!
Wow!..incredible work! The results are amazing!
Kudos to the customer who was willing to pay for the rejuvenation and shipment of this lovely box, he/she prolonged an amazing craftmanship for another 5or more decades!
LMAO the title is priceless Trena. LOVE the dog participation. LoL OMG Trena YOU ROCKED IT! WOW LOVE IT.
The customer should see this video to see the extent of your hard work. The color is outstanding. Would love the videos of Customers reactions.
Your work is amazing, it is good to see a craftswoman at work in this disposable throw-away world of ours. Well done.
...FROM THE BRINK!!! Congratulations, Trena. You did a beautiful job! Thank you.
Thanks Frank
OMG! This piece is stunning. I am in awe of the work you did in order to get it back to it's original state. I would love to see the expression of the person picking it up. I'm sure they are in shock at the beautiful job you did.
Another excellent restoration, you are incredible.
Thank you very much!
I loved this, just beautiful work, a pleasure to watch. I saw the first name inside the lid and caught my breath, that's me. I always loved these carved oriental chests. My husband's family were in China in the 1930s and had some lovely pieces. None of the large items were handed down since they were in England and we were in Canada, but we have some special small carved figurines and such. It's so interesting to see craftsmanship like this, both the original carver and your renovation. Thank you Trena, a very enjoyable hour. 💞
So pleased that your customer chose not to hide the beauty of the chest in "paint", a great finish. The fact that there is some minor warping of the lid keeps some of its history and isn't too severe. Thank you for sharing your work.
Trena what a beautiful and artistic job you did! This chest is absolutely superb. I'm sure your client is thrilled to pieces! This will last for many more years now! Thank you for sharing with us!
Wow Trena , you made a silk purse out of a sows ear 👍🇨🇮
I love the colors you chose for the wood but I wish you would've rehighlighted the carvings. They seem to blend in more than stand out which was there intended purpose. The work you do is amazing!
Looking at the grain it gives the impression of mountains and undulating land. Beautiful. I hope you get to keep it as is.
Oh my gosh! The attention to detail, the artistry, and your craftmanship is gobsmacking! Well done Trena.. you've lovingly restored this beautiful piece. We can clearly see how much you love the wood and bringing old things back to life. I am so glad to have found your page!
Trena, you have given this trunk a major upgrade. I was in the military and bought one of these trunks while I was assigned in Japan. Those things were pretty much tourist trinkets and I believe that they were cranked out as such. Every one of those trunks that I have seen always end up falling apart and it has always made me wonder if the wood and the joinery were perhaps not quite what it should have been. The fact that you have make this chest look brand new, perhaps even better than it ever looked when it was new, is a testament to your skills. Love your channel.
Yes that’s always what I thought too. Thanks! .
Trena, you are truly inspiring, thank you for sharing your skills and love of restoration.
My first thought was how much the wood grain became a "landscape" with the new finish....so glad your customer loved it too!🤎
Hi, you are amazing. Your Father trained you well & you are honoring his legacy by showing everyone what he has taught you. Thank you for taking me along.
I laughed when I saw the title. I've noticed that trunk in a bunch of your videos, so I knew exactly what you actually meant.
The comments say it all. Unbelievable. A truly magnificent repair and restoration. 😍
I ditto everyone's generous comments. Beautiful, artistic, a great eye for the color, very talented at carving, incredible joinery and knowing what to do and having the patience to do it. WOW! You knock it out of the park and I love seeing the transformation come to life. It's actually emotionally moving to see how much love you gave this piece. Thank you so much for all you do, it's so fun to see.
Once again Trena, marvious finish the owner, s will be more than proud of your dedicated work you do. 🎓🙌
Thankyou !
Amazing work. You clearly have the love and understanding of the materials you are working with, and the skills and patience to execute the various aspect of the projects beautifully. ❤️
Thanks Nancy
Wonderful job, love it!
Thank you so much!
Beautiful work. More than just a craftsman, a true artist
I love your patience with the process on this one, very necessary on a job like this. I remember back in the 80s-90s when a whole lot of similar furniture was coming to North America from southeast Asia and after being in people's homes with central heat, the wood was cracking, warping, and joints coming apart. it was ugly but there wasn't a lot to be done.
I love your humor too, a very essential element. My wife would always ask where I was going and I would say, "I gotta go look at Mrs. Magillicuddy's chest" she would answer, "You gonna go through her drawers too?"
lol, yep i remember my dads shop was always full of cracked carved items.
Hi Trena. Your video titles make me laugh and, as always, I really enjoyed watching.
Great work & a superb result!
Many thanks!
I am in awe, both of the original craftsman's skill, and your skill and passion for bringing this wonderful old piece back to life! Also, since we're not allowed to look elsewhere, I for one appreciate the fact that you included gratuitous shop dog footage for us to enjoy.
My oh my! What a big project.
This is not just a chest, this is a masterpiece. Unbelievable.
Your work is so detail. It looks stunning.
Thank you very much!
Yo... buddy.... my dowels are up here. Stop looking at my chest.
My grandma got one of this in Hongkong. That is why I spent the time to see how to restore it. After the work done, if you could show the reaction of your customers when they meet their belonging again, that would be what viewers want to see also. Good job! 😊👍
Thanks
What a Beautiful Job. You have quiet the Talent. Memorized watching your pieces take shape. Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful.
Incredible! Great work!
Outrageously beautiful! The work you do is like a 200 year old bottle of the finest Scotch! Each part meant to be savored and appreciated. That chest is glorious!! This is the work you were meant for. Your dad is clapping his hands at how much you’ve learned and expanded your knowledge beyond what he’s taught you. You should be on retainer for museums because your skills are way above the majority of woodworkers. And I adore your pup and kitty being part of the shop as well. I’m sure when things are tough, they release a lot of stress for you. My own kitty is draped and taking a nap. He’s being a living heating pad. Lol. On a serious note…as a retired critical care/ ER nurse I’m glad to see you using safety gear, especially your respirator, when working. All that fume exposure can create, over time, some very serious lung problems that can only be fixed by some extensive lung surgery. And I hope you are teaching someone else all your knowledge so the skills can continue. Hope one day to see your work in person.
Thankyou !
The chest IS glorious. So is the furniture piece.
I swear there is nothing you can’t do! Amazing work Trena.
Plus this piece is simply gorgeous. Thanks for sharing your passion
Thank you so much!
Your love for what you do Trena definitely shows up! in your work! Know wonder your pieces look so artistic! You truly are gifted in what you do. Your father surely taught his little girl well.
your videos continually teach me the art of patience
Exquisitely done. This is the best restoration piece I have ever seen. You are top-notch in my book.
This repair was a roller coaster ride and it turned out beautifully restored 💖
I love the way that your cabinet turned the carvings turned out wonderful I love your passion for the work you do please keep it up I'm looking forward to more
OMG you added so much value to that chest. What a beautiful job. Actually, when you were carving the flower at the miter all I could think was you must charge a fortune for your work. You clearly can for your artistry. Thank you for sharing your work. It's a real pleasure to observe. Blessings.
I was thinking the same thing! That chest was worth giving up an arm and leg for!
You really honoured the carver of these beautiful panels
The grain really puts the carving into a landscape
Well done
Amazing job...you should be nothing but proud! That said, like every good (great) craftsperson l know...you point out everything that is less than perfect at the end. I'm sure that's a necessary trait to be able to achieve the results you get. Once again, great work!
We once almost brought back furniture from Bali. We then found out this sort of thing can happen. So we held off. Amazing job !!
This must be one of your best restorations. The beauty of the piece comes to life. You are a true artist. Congratulations. You teach us many things, but I am most surprised by the patience you have taught me. I love all your work.
WOW - the finished chest looks brilliant. The wood finish is fantastic - thousand times better than the flat, murky black/brown finish. Well done you.👏👏👏👌
LOL! How did you know! Great videos, a lot of hard work but stunning results!
I deal in mid century modern, but I still have a love for antiques, probably because I had my early training in antiques. Turned out fabulous.
Thanks
As usual, beautiful work. I enjoy watching a master craftsman. John taught you well.
Superb work.
Such a beautiful ending to an incredible piece of workmanship! Love watching you work, guess your dad taught you much of this? How wonderful!
Girl, you "Rock" !!!
What a beautiful job saving that old chest.
Excellent!
Earl
Connecticut
So impressive! Not only did you deal masterfully with the horrendous warping and other issues, but your refinishing undoubtedly left it looking better than it did when it was brand new.
This chest, oh my, I have one. My Father bought it from a Merchant Seaman in the early 70'. The man said he got it from a village, that made them. I still admire an realize, it took a village of talented people to make my chest from Dad. Bless you for this hard work you are doing.
I love watching your videos… the care and love you give the pieces you work on are very inspirational. Thank you !!
And then some. Bravo T.
Love the fur baby helper. Adorable. What a cool peice to work on.great job. Beautiful.
Just realized your consistent expression is “so, yeah!” Think your closing line should be “so, yeah! I like it!”
Your craftsmanship is methodical and well thought out. This piece turned out wonderful! And you seem to do it with ease. I actually find it quite relaxing to watch your process.
Thankyou
Omg! I love the mischievous title: I enjoy the incredible craftsmanship…and I tune in to watch traynor (?) because she’s gorgeous! I also love the fact that nobody else will admit this…
Trena
Love your work, you are a true craftsman. I only wish I could be in your shop and learning from you. John Serrano
Egad! What a pleasure watching such a clever craftsperson! I suppose that having a fuzzy around with oblivious poodle ancestry helps some.
Your coloring is such a vast improvement over the original. Love your work.
Inspiring approach to problem solving - and you can really get 'er done. There were dozens of repairs hiding in there, and each one was assessed, executed, and integrated with the whole. Mesmerizing to watch - I'm usually more stressed out on comparatively simple projects that only have a couple of problems to solve. So I come to this channel to see what's possible!
Thankyou!
Would spraying a clear finish on the inside and bottom help with limiting future wood movement? Another 10 out of 10! Thank you.
it finished moving years ago when it was imported. The raw eucalyptus smells so wonderful it would be a shame to seal it.
Your work on this project borders on the magical! Wow! Another silk purse out of a - - -well let's just say that it is now a silk purse. The craftsmen in China who made this chest would be proud of what you have done. Thank you for sharing!.
thankyou
@@johnsfurniturerepair I do hope the client was equally impressed!
Beautiful job! That’s a remarkable piece of furniture. Would love to know it’s history.
It's ready for the pile of gold coins! Beautiful. You did a marvelous job!
Amazing! With the really warped board, would steam be an alternative to get it straightened?
Unfortunately with pieces this old it usually just springs back. Hard to teach an very old dog new tricks. But definitely with newer lumber it would. Cheers
@@johnsfurniturerepair interesting. Thanks.
@@johnsfurniturerepair ....it is harder to teach young dog old tricks
I was wondering if you could have cut it into strips with a bandsaw and glue those up straight, like a lamination or a plywood. You would of course have had to add a bit to make up for the saw kerfs. A lot of extra work though
I had to stop watching yesterday. My six year old boy had an upset tummy (too many sweet's). He is OK today, and gone to school.
What a wonderful transformation. I did not know the lock was engraved until you polished it, and the leaf pattern popped out. Beautiful, job well done.
on that top, It seemed as though all the frame pieces were relatively straight except for that front one that was crowned and twisted. Framers deal with that by cutting kerf cuts in the piece of lumber enabling the thing to be straightened. They straighten the piece by making that kerf cut and driving a long screw in at an angle to pull the lumber into position, couldn't you have done something like that? Perhaps making some kerf cuts in the back where it would be on the inside enabling you to take the crown out that way and then making some kerf cuts on the bottom up to the carving enabling to straighten it out in that plane. then holding the piece straight with clamps and perhaps against something strong like a metal straight tube fill the kerf cuts with wood filler.
if it were a worse situation i would have had to do something more. but i was able to get it to an acceptable level without brutal repairs. thanks for the suggestions though. cheers
Keep up the good work. I’ve have 50+ years of experience in furniture design and woodworking; and no small amount of repairs, too. I also started making and repairing guitars and basses as well. You might want to try using carbon fiber rods in such cases as this. I’ve used carbon fiber rods successfully while both building and repairing guitar necks. There are a number direct to public vendors on line.
Very nice for what you had to work with. I personally like the "ebony" heavy lacquored look of the Chinese style.
Keep them coming !!
🤣😂🤣the title killed me
Amazing job!
Have you run into any issues leaving the inside raw like that? I've heard from others that doing so would be a recipe for uneven take up of moisture and would promote warping. I wonder if that is why it warped so much to begin with. Sometimes conventional wisdom is wrong so good to hear from experience. Thanks for sharing!
definitely left open the trunk would start to take on moisture, but because they are usually closed the humidity stays relatively stable unless stored in extreme temperature and weather conditions. the eucalyptus also smells so wonderful it would be a shame to seal. cheers
I have learned that the best way to prevent warping due to quick changes in moisture contents is to fill drawers, or in this case a chest, with textiles. They will act as a moisture buffer, slow down the changes and thus prevent warping.
But....but.....you made me look....lol......and I only came for the thrill of your skills, your clamp revamps, the anticipation of your restoration and your restraint.....with matches. Honestly, I intently watched everything you did and I still don't believe the stunning results you managed to get. Amazing!
Not while I have a pulse!
OMG, Trena! You truly are an artist! This chest looks brand new, youd have to look very, very close to see repairs! You went over and beyond a repair/restore job! Thank you!❤
Thankyou
No, not gonna...
Oh Trena, you got my laughing out loud, again, alone in my house. The dog. Hilarious! If there is a hall of fame for furniture repair and refinishing you would take the #1 spot! Beautiful as always.
Workmanship, artistry, the word that comes to mind is WOW.
Thankyou!
You are very talented.
Restoring the chest required many talents.
Okay, the trunk. Now this was a possible mission impossible but Trena showed that it wasn't. The three-d look of the top and elsewhere was beautifully done.
Thanks for transporting me away to restoration land. Always a treat for sure!
The colour and finish are stunning. I shudder to think what the cost of such a restoration is but it was well worth it - a magnificent piece.