Thread: Restoring and finishing an oak pedestal desk

Hello all

I have acquired an old pedestal office desk. Era maybe 1920's or 1930's? Is it oak?

Have used metho and fine steel wool to strip one drawer. Fairly easy

I'd love some advice re sanding and finishing.

There is a dark ink stain on the top (not in the picture) - any suggestions how to deal with ink?

Are there any electric sanders that might be suitable in case I run out of elbow grease?

I'm thinking I will finish with blonde shellac - same as I used for my last project, which was silky oak and I was super happy with the result. Any thoughts/suggestions?

I want to change the timber handles to metal bin pull type. There is a distinct mark where the original ones were. I'm looking for bin pulls that are big enough to cover the mark. Need to be about 13 cm (5 in) across.

All suggestions and comments gratefully received.

Bessie