08-29-2017, 11:40 AM
Well it's been a while but I have to say that this was the most difficult project I have attempted and I applaud all the folks in the forum that make it look so easy. Thanks to everyone's posts and advice I'm making good progress and learning a lot. The arch that Steve made for me worked perfectly although I did have to widen the slot in the front panel a bit and make a new arch support for the rear since the curve came out a little different than the original. I also replaced the plywood base since the original was in bad shape. I felt a little bad about replacing so many of the original cabinet parts but since this is my first restore I definitely plan to keep it for myself. The outside has been grain filled (not perfect but I learned a lot) and sprayed with about 6 coats of clear satin. Next will be the toner to match the new arch to the front, decal on the front and finish clear coats. The front bottom veneer is a little beat up but the trim will take care of that. I'll post again after the next steps. Couldn't have done it without the Phorum. The "after" photos are a little warmer looking than actual.
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Dave Thomas
Coatesville, PA