How to Repair a Cedar Chest

A cedar chest makes a lovely keepsake. Properly cared for a cedar chest can last for many generations. Passed to the next generation, a cedar chest can house heirloom quilts or ancient wedding gowns since cedar is a natural deterrent to moths. A damaged cedar chest requires patience and a steady hand to repair. If you invest in repairing the cedar chest, it can serve your family for centuries.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Assess the damage to the cedar chest. Decide if it's a project you feel comfortable handling on your own.

2. Fix loose hinges by tightening the screws or replace with new ones. Repair a damaged lock with a new lock that matches the design of the cedar chest.

3. Fill a cracked joint. Use a thin tool such as a scraper or putty knife to gently spread the corner apart. Force a high quality carpenter's glue into the corner. Release the joint. Wipe off any excess glue with a damp rag. Use a web-type clamp that completely encircles the cedar chest.

4. Mend the cedar chest's side, back or front when the wood itself has separated. Pry the wood apart as much as you can without breaking it, force glue into the joint. Use a bar clamp with cloth next to the finished surface so as to not mare it. Wipe off excess glue.

5. Find a reputable furniture restorer if you have a large surface problem—gouges, nicks or dents. The entire cedar chest needs to be refinished by putting on a new coat of stain.

6. Raise the grain of the wood if something heavy has been dropped on the cedar chest. Carefully put moisture on the damaged part to try to bring the grain back.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid large quantities of water which could cause damage to the finish itself.