How to Restore Vintage Furniture in Connecticut: A Step-by-Step Guide

Furniture Restoration TipsVintage FurnitureConnecticut Projects
Written By CT Furniture Restoration

If you own a vintage or heirloom piece of furniture and want to bring it back to usable condition, this guide will help you understand your options. At CT Furniture Restoration, based in Stratford, Connecticut, we specialize in furniture restoration, refinishing, and reupholstery services for clients across the state.

Whether you're restoring a mid-century modern chair, an antique dining table, or a family heirloom, these practical steps will help you make the right decisions and get the most from your piece.

Step 1: Assess the Condition of the Furniture

Before you begin any restoration project, carefully evaluate the current state of the piece. Check for:

  • Loose or broken joints

  • Scratches, dents, or worn finishes

  • Damaged veneer or missing parts

  • Signs of water damage, mold, or woodworm

If you're not sure how extensive the damage is, we recommend scheduling a consultation with a local restoration expert. At CT Furniture Restoration, we provide honest assessments and recommend cost-effective solutions.

Step 2: Research the Style and Origin

Knowing the style, age, or designer of the furniture can influence your restoration approach. For example, a Danish teak piece may require a different finish than an American walnut table.

We frequently restore:

  • Mid-century modern furniture (e.g. Vladimir Kagan, Jens Risom)

  • Antique wood dressers and cabinets

  • Vintage upholstered chairs and ottomans

Restoring pieces with their original style and materials in mind helps maintain their authenticity and long-term value.

Step 3: Choose the Right Restoration Method

Depending on your goals and the condition of the piece, restoration can include:

  • Wood Refinishing – Sanding and applying new stain or paint to worn surfaces

  • Reupholstery – Replacing old fabric and padding with updated, durable materials

  • Structural Repair – Reinforcing frames, fixing joints, and replacing damaged parts

  • Full Restoration – Combining all of the above for heavily worn or broken items

At CT Furniture Restoration, we focus on preserving original craftsmanship while improving the piece's function, appearance, and durability.

Step 4: Work with a Trusted Furniture Restoration Specialist in Connecticut

While some basic repairs can be done at home, many vintage and antique pieces require specialized tools, skills, and materials. Working with a Connecticut-based restoration workshop offers several advantages:

  • Clear communication throughout the project

  • Easier delivery and pickup options

  • Knowledge of local styles and historic materials

  • Consistent quality and follow-up support

Our Stratford workshop welcomes both residential and design clients. Whether you're in Fairfield, New Haven, Greenwich, or nearby, we're here to help.

Why Choose CT Furniture Restoration?

  • Based in Stratford, CT, serving all of Connecticut

  • Trusted by homeowners, collectors, and interior designers

  • Specialized in refinishing, reupholstery, and custom furniture

  • Transparent process with attention to detail and quality materials

We restore everything from walnut credenzas to velvet slipper chairs, always focusing on function, finish, and integrity.

Start Your Furniture Restoration Project Today

If you’re ready to restore a vintage or antique piece, or simply want advice on what’s possible, CT Furniture Restoration is here to help.

Visit our workshop in Stratford, Connecticut
Contact us for a quote or to schedule a consultation
We’re happy to work with both individual homeowners and design professionals

CT Furniture Restoration