01: Restored | New Life to Old Wooden Bowls



I relish in the fresh beginnings of a new year and dreaming of what's to come. This year I've planned 12 mini collections around things that I love and want to share with you. Some will be in collaboration with the artisan groups I continue to work with, and some will be from my home studio in Southern Oregon. 

 

The first collection is one that always calls to me - restoration.  

There is something completely satisfying and a little introspective about restoring an old piece. It's not “as good as new”; it's even better because those marks and imperfections add intrigue of an unknown story.   

 

Nothing restores more beautifully than wooden bowls. I love their usefulness, the round curves, the warm browns, and the organic markings in the woodgrain. I've cleaned, sanded, and waxed each one in this mini collection - and used the utmost restraint not to keep the whole collection for myself. I hope they find a new life in YOUR home.

stack of refinished wooden antique bowls
early american wooden dough butter bowl

Have a wooden bowl or spoon you'd like to restore?  Follow these simple steps:

  1. Clean thoroughly with mild detergent. Allow to dry completely in a sunny spot for 1-2 days.
  2. Sand first using 120 grit, then 220 grit, and finally 320 grit. For larger items, you can use an electric sander. A foam pad insert allows the sander to move around the curves easily.
  3. Clean thoroughly with a damp cloth or wood cleaner. Allow to dry completely in a sunny spot for 1-2 days.
  4. Apply a natural beeswax with a clean cloth, and allow to soak in the woodgrain for 20 minutes. Wipe off excess. Repeat 2-3 times. Buff well and allow to cure before use.



Our handwoven towels and table runners pair beautifully with the heirloom quality of this bowl collection.


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