Mid-century modern furniture remains a timeless and sought-after style, characterized by its clean lines, functional designs, and innovative use of materials. Chairs and tables from this era have a unique aesthetic, offering a blend of form and function that makes them ideal for modern homes. However, as these pieces age, they may need some care to restore their former beauty. Whether you've found a neglected gem at a thrift store or you want to refresh your own collection, refurbishing mid-century modern chairs and tables is a rewarding process. This guide will walk you through each step, offering tips and techniques for restoring these iconic pieces to their original glory.

  1. Evaluate the Condition

Before diving into the restoration process, it's important to evaluate the current condition of the furniture. Mid-century modern chairs and tables were often built using durable materials such as hardwood, metal, and glass. However, wear and tear from years of use, exposure to sunlight, or accidents can take a toll on these pieces.

Examine the Surface and Structure

  • Wood Surfaces: Look for scratches, water damage, stains, or faded finishes. A thorough cleaning and refinishing can often bring the wood back to life.
  • Metal Components: Check for rust, tarnishing, or scratches. Metal legs or accents can be cleaned, polished, or refinished depending on the severity of the damage.
  • Upholstery: Inspect the upholstery for any tears, stains, or signs of sagging. Old upholstery may need to be replaced, or it could be salvaged with a good cleaning and minor repairs.
  • Structural Integrity: Ensure that all joints and connections are intact. Loose screws, wobbling legs, or weakened joints can compromise the furniture's stability and may require repairs.

Once you've assessed the condition of the furniture, you can determine whether it's worth the effort to refurbish and how extensive the restoration should be.

  1. Disassemble the Furniture

If the chair or table can be disassembled, it's best to carefully take it apart. This will make the restoration process easier and allow you to focus on each individual part.

  • Photograph the Piece: Before disassembling, take detailed photos to reference during reassembly.
  • Label Parts and Hardware: Keep track of screws, bolts, and any removable parts, labeling them clearly to prevent losing any pieces.
  • Handle with Care: Some mid-century modern furniture, especially chairs, can have delicate joints or fragile upholstery, so be gentle when removing parts.

Disassembling the piece allows you to restore it more efficiently and reach areas that would otherwise be difficult to clean or repair.

  1. Restoring Wood

Wood is a staple in mid-century modern furniture, often used for iconic pieces like dining tables, coffee tables, and chairs. Restoring wood requires a methodical approach to ensure that the natural beauty of the grain is preserved while repairing any damage.

Cleaning and Stripping

  • Surface Cleaning : Use a gentle wood cleaner or a mix of mild soap and water to remove dirt and grime. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the finish.
  • Stripping Old Finishes : If the wood has old varnish, paint, or lacquer, use a chemical stripper to remove these layers. Work in a well-ventilated area and wear protective gloves.
  • Sanding : After stripping, use sandpaper to smooth out the wood. Start with a medium-grit paper (around 100-150 grit) to remove old finish or imperfections, then move to fine-grit paper (220 grit) for a smooth surface.

Repairing Wood Damage

  • Filling Cracks and Gouges : For deep cracks or gouges, use wood filler or a two-part epoxy resin. Fill the damaged areas, allow the filler to cure, and then sand it down to match the surface.
  • Reinforcing Joints : If any joints are loose or weakened, consider using wood glue or wood screws to reinforce the structure. Be careful not to over-tighten screws or clamps, as this can cause further damage.

Refinishing the Wood

Once the wood is smooth and free of damage, apply a fresh finish. Choose a finish that complements the type of wood. For example, walnut and oak pieces benefit from an oil finish, while lighter woods like maple may do well with a varnish.

  • Oiling : Apply a light coat of oil, such as Danish oil or tung oil, using a soft cloth. This nourishes the wood and enhances the natural grain.
  • Varnishing : For a more durable finish, apply varnish. Use a fine-bristled brush to apply thin, even layers, letting each coat dry fully before applying another.
  1. Restoring Upholstery

Upholstery restoration can be one of the most challenging aspects of refurbishing mid-century modern chairs. Many pieces from this era featured bold fabric choices, including wool, tweed, or leather. If the upholstery is in bad shape, you may want to reupholster the furniture with new fabric.

Stripping Old Upholstery

Carefully remove the existing fabric by unfastening the staples or tacks holding it in place. Keep track of the order and positioning of the fabric layers for reference.

  • Remove the Foam : If the foam in the cushions has deteriorated, it may need to be replaced. Check the original foam for any signs of compression or damage.
  • Cushion Filling : For more authenticity, consider using high-density foam or natural materials like cotton batting or down feathers, which were commonly used in mid-century modern furniture.

Reupholstering

Choose a fabric that reflects the original design aesthetic. Mid-century modern chairs and tables often featured geometric patterns, natural textures, or leather.

  • Cut the New Fabric: Measure and cut the new fabric to fit the cushions and chair frame.
  • Stretch the Fabric : Use a staple gun to stretch the fabric tightly over the frame or cushions. Make sure the fabric is evenly aligned and free of wrinkles.
  • Finishing Touches: Tuck the fabric neatly around corners and edges, ensuring a smooth and professional-looking result.
  1. Metal Restoration

Mid-century modern chairs and tables often feature metal elements, including legs, arms, and accents. Restoring metal components requires a careful approach to avoid damaging the finish.

Cleaning and Polishing

For light tarnish or rust, start by cleaning the metal with a mild cleaner and a soft cloth. Use a fine steel wool pad for more stubborn rust or dirt.

  • Polishing : For chrome, brass, or aluminum, use a metal polish to restore the shine. Buff the metal with a clean, soft cloth to remove any remaining residue.

Welding or Replacing Parts

If a metal part is severely damaged, it may need to be welded or replaced. Many mid-century modern pieces have custom metal components, so sourcing a similar replacement may be challenging. In some cases, modern replicas may be an option.

  1. Reassembly and Final Inspection

Once all parts have been restored, it's time to reassemble the furniture. Follow your reference photos and carefully attach each component.

  • Check for Stability: Ensure that the chair or table is level and stable. Tighten all screws and bolts, but be careful not to over-tighten.
  • Final Touches: Inspect the furniture for any imperfections, such as small scratches, wrinkles in the upholstery, or uneven finishes. Address these issues as needed.
  • Protect the Furniture : To preserve the piece, apply a protective wax or finish to the wood and metal surfaces. Keep upholstered furniture out of direct sunlight to prevent fading and cracking.
  1. Conclusion

Refurbishing mid-century modern chairs and tables can be a rewarding project for anyone interested in restoring classic designs. By carefully evaluating the condition of each piece, using the right techniques to restore wood, metal, and upholstery, and paying attention to the details, you can breathe new life into these timeless pieces. Whether you're refurbishing a single chair or an entire set, these steps will help you achieve a high-quality restoration that captures the elegance and functionality of mid-century modern design.