Restoration Of Lachenal

[reedaway]

Hi,

First of all let me introduce myself. I am a new member to the forum and have recently taken up the restoration of an old Lachenal. This is something I used to do a while back, not for profit but for the fun and pleasure of making an old instrument playable and to be enjoyed by others.

I have looked through the various topics but can't find any reference to the following.

 

Is it possible to clean the Lachenal manufacturers label - I assume they are only paper and not waterproof.

Is it possible to treat the wood so that it is not so dry and brittle or prevent it getting any worse.

 

Any help appreciated

Thank you

[Bill N]

You might try a kneaded artist's eraser. They are cheap, and available in any art supply store. Knead it until it is soft, then gently dab at the label. It will remove the surface dirt without disturbing the printing.

[reedaway]

Thank you for your help. I will give it a try

[d.elliott]

one issue you can run across is the fact that some labels were coated in french polish, this cracks and discolours. effectively making the label very delicate and cleaning extremely risky.

 

Dave

[reedaway]

Thank you this advice. I think I will leave well alone.