Nourishing History: Restoring a 100‑Year‑Old Antique Wooden Chair

A Small Antique Chair With a Big Story

Every now and then, a piece comes into the shop that feels like a quiet reminder of the past. This small antique wooden chair was exactly that—over 100 years old, still solid, and full of charm. It didn’t need a bold makeover. It simply deserved to have its natural beauty restored and its history respected.

Painting it would have covered up the very thing that made it special. So instead, I chose a gentle, nourishing approach.

A Fresh Start With a Deep Clean

I began by giving the chair a thorough clean using TSP Alternative. Years of dust and buildup can hide the true condition of old wood, so this step is essential. Once the chair was fully dry, it was ready for the real transformation.

Reviving the Wood With Hemp Oil

To keep the finish natural and authentic, I reached for Hemp Oil Wood Finish—one of my favorite products for antique restorations. It’s all‑natural, food‑safe, and designed to soak deep into thirsty wood fibers.

I flipped the chair over and brushed on the oil, letting it sink into the dry wood. This chair needed nourishment, and the Hemp Oil delivered exactly that.

Once the underside was complete, I turned the chair upright and continued applying the oil. Some areas absorbed it quickly, so I added more where needed to ensure the wood was fully saturated and evenly conditioned.

Finishing Touches

After the entire chair was coated, I let it sit for about 15 minutes. Then I wiped away the excess with shop towels, leaving behind a soft, natural sheen and beautifully revived wood grain.

A Beautifully Preserved Piece of History

The finished chair looked warm, rich, and alive again—exactly what a century‑old piece deserves. No paint, no drastic changes, just a thoughtful restoration that honors its story.