Thread: Chaise red cedar carved frame with rattan mesh - seeking advice

Was really surprised to be visiting the recycling centre looking for bike parts when this beauty came in on the forklift. I immediately saw beauty in it and snapped it up.
My intention is to wash the red cedar with Sunlight soap and warm water and then test the shellac. If I can I will then start layering the shellac on it.
There is an exposed joint that will probably require me to cut and add replacement red cedar. Matching the grain direction will be fun.

For the rattan I'm looking for advice as I haven't worked with it since my time in the furniture factory over 40 years ago.
There is a large patch (see photo) where engine oil has sat on it and soaked in. I was thinking that I might be able to also was it in Sunlight soap and warm water to remove the surface layer. I would like to find some other old rattan where I can cut pieces out and glue them into the gaps. I know I could just replace it but I'm always into the challenge of recovery first.
If I have to build some support under the rattan to support people's weight I'm have to do that. I would appreciate any advice and feedback.

If anyone can point me to photo's of same units elsewhere it would be appreciated. I assume the original may have had either coverings or even thin covered mattress material.



Complete.jpg Carve.jpg